The seductive Afffair show by Azerbaijani designer Rufat Ismayil concluded New York Fashion Week, with the lingerie-inspired showcase appropriately the night before Valentine’s Day. A mix of barely-there cocktail styles and regal eveningwear gowns, Afffair brought sexy back to Spring Studios.
Ashanti at the Grammy’s in a customized version of the Afffair runway finale gown.
Turkish supermodel Tülin Sahin opened and closed the show, first appearing in a sequin bomber jacket paired with an emerald green satin pleated skirt, and later in the billowing finale black velvet long sleeved dress with a golden ruched bottom– a gown that singer Ashanti had opted to wear to the Grammy’s a few nights prior.
Ismayil credits witnessing monarch butterflies on a trip to North America for his inspiration behind the collection. Petaled cutouts adorned shoulders of curve-hugging dresses, and see-through bodysuits were paired with tiered trains for a demure look. Most ensembles were paired with thigh-high boots, some bearing the same lace detailing found in the shorter velvet dresses.
The collection hit its stride when the colored ensembles were introduced, ranging from a soft grey to dark emerald. The flax gold skirts proved to be a standout choice, perfectly balancing the black lace bodysuits.
A smattering of sequin details elevated each style, adding a beautifully regal touch, particularly on a tiered flouncing black dress styled with a feathered headpiece. Ismayel used organza, lace, chiffon, and satin for the collection.
The front row was decorated with actress Francesca Curran from Orange is the New Black, Miss New York 2018 Rahmeka Cox, Real Housewives of New Jersey star Jennifer Aydin, and the iconic Jersey Shore cast member Angelina Pivarnick.
Afffair brought revealing glam to Spring Studios, ending NYFW and beginning their presence on red carpets everywhere.