Christian Siriano kept it close to home for his resort collection inspiration, enlisting his friend, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” star Gottmik, as both muse and model. “I’ve been watching ‘Drag Race’ and Mik is just so inspiring and incredible,” Siriano said of the drag artist, who’s quite a fashion “look queen” on the show with runways — several on the currently airing season of all-stars — that fans have deemed iconic.
Last season saw Siriano riff on ballet, a theme he continued with tulle accents and shapes but layering in a dark Gothic elegance. Most looks were black, unexpected for the designer, but a way to help highlight his whimsical construction details, seen in sheer black tulle over the boning on a bustier and ball skirt with sheer panels. “I feel like I wanted it to be moody,” he said of the onyx hue. “But I still want it to be romantic and very Old Hollywood.”
The grandeur was clear with his assortment of gowns and statement event dresses; a cascading tulle wraparound frock with black bustier exposed the body and there was a high-waisted wide-leg pant with sandy brown cuff with another black corset with puffs of tulle. Each was sensual, glamorous — even a bit restrained for Siriano — and felt fresh.
Mik is known to use white face paint when in drag, but Siriano chose glam goddess instead. “We did this more beautiful makeup,” he said. “To really show that a performer like a drag queen can also be really elegant and beautiful.”
He rounded out the collection with a few over-the-top boisterous color options, his trademark. A strapless gown had a massive skirt and rosettes at the bodice using a purple laminated, iridescent taffeta. “It’s so fun and beautiful and I can’t wait to do more [with the fabric],” he said.
Siriano knows his customer wants to make a statement and he cannot help but oblige.