Designer Spotlight: Katie Ermilio Spring/Summer 2013 Collection

So, stylist's confession.  I have a major design crush.  It's been escalating since last year... Credit card, you've been warned.
Late last fall {in fact, it may have been the holidays}, I cozied into a banquette in the Rose Club in the Plaza Hotel. I was enjoying the velvety ambiance and a cocktail with a girlfriend, when I was completely sidetracked.  In fact, almost dropped my martini {the horror}!
I watched as a young girl sashayed into the lounge wearing the most beautiful holiday dress I had ever seen.  The peek-a-boo detail was beautiful.  The lines stunning.  The fit superb. I attempted to mentally catalog the season's look books, but I couldn't quite place the designer.  In a moment of weakness, I did what no proud stylist would ever do. I asked who made the dress.
"Katie Ermilio," the girl said with a smile.  She bounced away.  Ever since, I've adored this line.

Katie Ermilio Contrast Stripe Peplum Top and Block Stripe Mini Shorts

Katie Ermilio Fit and Flare Multi Stripe Gown

Katie Ermilio Bow Bodice Mini Dress

Katie Ermilio Peter Pan Top and Barber Stripe Evening Skirt

 As the granddaughter of Grace Kelly’s personal clothier, it’s no surprise that Katie Ermilio's collection embraces an overwhelmingly feminine aesthetic. From prim silhouettes emboldened by graphic stripes to quirky separates elevated by faultless tailoring, her spring collection adheres to a ladylike dress code with perfect poise—and grace.

In addition to her ties to Grace Kelly, Katie's father owns a Philadelphia bespoke menswear shop, and Katie herself has interned with designer Tracy Reese, Women's Wear Daily, and Vogue. When her colleagues pestered her about the perfect dress she was wearing, she confessed it was her own design – and then began to field orders. A testament to the history of tailoring, Katie designs for the classically put-together Manhattan socialite, and already has celebrities knocking on her door.  {I can totally see why}.  If you are anything like me - and need some Katie Ermilio frocks, STAT - here are a few finds still available for purchase from her Fall 2012 collection... 

Katie Ermilio Silk Faille Colorblock Sweetheart Dress at left; Bow Sleeve Party Dress at right.

Katie Ermilio Long Taffeta Skirt at left,  Pearl Shaded Shift Dress at right.

Aren't the current styles just perfect for holiday parties {... and rehearsal dinners, brunches, and fetes of all kinds}?  I'm totally in love.
 xx,

All photos courtesy of Katie Ermilio.