NEW YORK, United States — The King of Sexy! A title rarely given, but most certainly deserving of one LaQuan Smith. Lest you forget he is also a mentee of Tom Ford and Carine Roitfeld, a respected duo in the annals of sex appeal. Off the back of a series of commercial partnerships (ASOS, Revolve, and most recently Puma), which will hopefully fortify the business, Smith saves the glamour for his most devoted following in an evening runway presentation held at none other than the Empire State Building. That he is the first designer to do so in the building’s 90-year history is apropos given the Queens-born designer’s stomping grounds have been the city that never sleeps for years.

The fifty-five look Spring 2022 collection opened with his signature high-cut mesh bodysuit, but this time in a vision of glittering champagne. Smith caters to the lifestyle of his clientele, with body-baring pieces best suited for the non-stop jet setting cohort. A larger than life setting for this runway show marks a siren call for the brand as it further cements itself in a quickly evolving industry, especially in the midst of the ongoing global pandemic. Smith has always designed for the brilliance and boldness within his consumer base. His best-selling bodysuit can be taken up or down depending on the style, in a multitude of color ways, and his celebrity admirers range from the most demure to the most daring (Hailey Bieber to Lady Gaga). It’s a flexibility that has served him well as he satiates this specific niche versus the trends of the season.

Standout looks include an ultra-watt matching blue skirt and top, a graphic tailored suit and asymmetrical bandeau, and a white tee shirt dress accentuated by Smith’s corsetry. Shades of blue appeared in suede separates, in ruffled gowns, and varnished motorcycle leather pants. He wisely included a preview of his forthcoming Puma athleisure collaboration, including sneakers with eight looks available to purchase immediately. The celebratory collection (with miniature bottles of champagne and a poodle in tow) is especially memorable as it precedes the opening of the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute’s “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion” of which Smith’s work will be exhibited. A full circle moment for New York’s very own king.

Photo Courtesy of LaQuan Smith.