NewYork fashion weekNEW YORK, September 8, 2010

By Nicole Phelps

If you were looking for a sign of just how big a trend minimalism is, you could find it at the Sachin + Babi for Ankasa presentation on the first day of New York fashion week. Known for the embroideries they provide to some of Seventh Avenue's biggest names, Sachin and Babi Ahluwalia's more-is-more aesthetic has defined their ready-to-wear line since its inception about three years ago. Here, though, they brought things down a notch. Handkerchief-hem dresses, strapless rompers, and matching "public" pj sets came in printed silks evocative of the soft, sun-washed colors the designers discovered on a family trip to Siena—a far cry from the neon brights of recent seasons. The Tuscan countryside's wrought-iron gates inspired the cage paneling on a cocktail dress, but embellishments were generally toned down as well. In fact, the husband-and-wife duo showed off a surprisingly deft hand for understatement, as in a beige trench and pantsuit trimmed delicately in tulle. Their romantic yet restrained long sundress with subtle pintucking on its front was a highlight.

Fashion Brand: Sachin Babi | www.sachinandbabi.com

Their romantic yet restrained long sundress with subtle pintucking on its front was a highlight.