Erin Barr gave us a glimpse into the late 50’s for her Spring 2013 collection; envisioning a cross between noted minimalist and post-painterly abstract artist Frank Stella and famed silver screen coquette, Marilyn Monroe.  The result was smartly tailored, sexy yet subdued designs—which models coyly displayed amongst retro furniture while reading leather-bound books, playing chess and musing over vintage records. 

Referencing Stella’s bold and graphic paintings, specifically his 1958 Broadway series, painterly stripes added pizazz to the modern color palette—and mostly monochromatic looks—of red, black, silver and white.  From Marilyn, Barr borrowed from her softer and closeted intellectual side, throwing gamine inspired pieces—such as cropped trousers and button downs—into the mix.  As for the slim dresses and skirts, sensuous touches arrived via peekaboo cutouts, high slits, plunging necklines and open backs.  Despite the nostalgic zeitgeist of the collection, exposed zipper details, leather touches and double layering of chiffon kept the looks subtly progressive.