DOWNTOWN — Rafael Cennamo’s studio on White Street was busy on Wednesday, as the up-and-coming designer prepared for his first presentation in New York’s Fashion Week.
Only two days before he was set to show his collection Friday night, Cennamo raced around his studio, putting the finishing touches on the silky skirts, chiffon straps and necklines of his high-end evening wear couture.
Models floated in and out like a breeze during last-minute casting as Cennamo pinned his garments against their ethereal frames during final fittings.
“It’s important for them to feel good, to feel confident,” Cennamo, 28, said of his models. “This construction is what makes everything better.”
Although Cennamo has been creating couture since the age of 15, the Venezuelan-born designer said New York’s Fashion Week is by far his most prestigious project. His past credits include work for Miss Venezuela, as well as fashion shows in Thailand, Russia and Brazil.
Cennamo also owns a studio and store in Miami, where he attended the Art Institute of Miami. His 2011 collection “Resort” emulates his Latin influences, with bright, warm colors and breezy dresses meant to evoke the feeling of a tropical sunset.
“As a designer, I try all the time to go for different color palettes,” Cennamo said. “As a creative mind, you have the opportunity to play. That’s what I love about fashion.”
This year the designer is giving a whole new meaning to the idea of “play” in fashion — by crafting his Spring 2012 collection to match his current inspiration: dolls. His collection is filled with feathered skirts, long dresses, long black trains, plunging necklines and plenty of sparkles.
“It is so important to have that understanding of who that woman is,” Cennamo said about his models as he prepared for the show.
“They have to portray this essence,” he continued. “They need to look fresh and young, as well as sexy and elegant.”
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