Fireflies all over. That was the essence of Rami Kadi’s inventive couture collection. And for good reason: “I have a phobia of bugs, and I was looking for a way to relieve my fear,” the young designer confided. And he found his therapy in crafty embroideries.
Kadi braided threads to recreate the insects’ shape on long and regal A-shaped dresses covered in lace, mimicking a spider’s web. And he used sequin material that was laser-cut in the shape of beetles and appliquéd to cozy mohair column dresses.
Kadi conjured various patterns on black-and-white numbers, including festive minidresses with built-in capes or trains lined with ostrich feathers. When he turned off the lights at the salon of the Plaza Athenée, the ensemble of 13 looks let off a warm glow — just like real-life fireflies. Bugs never looked so chic.