Why Alice + Olivia Had The Most Enchanting NYFW Collection

Leave it to Alice + Olivia's CEO and creative director, Stacey Bendet, to find inspiration in a Salman Rushdie novel for her new Fall 2017 collection. Drawing from The Enchantress of Florence, Bendet translated the bright and vibrant setting of India's Mughal Empire and romanticism of Renaissance Florence into one statement-making collection you'll want to wear all fall. In a typical Alice + Olivia move, Bendet chose to focus on the idea of a "princess writing her own destiny in a man's world," with pieces—like utilitarian camo jackets, armor-like metallic beading, and lace-up thigh-highs—reflecting the "force of her will alone," not without the brand's signature quirky twist. (See Rushdie’s Lady Black Eyes character reimagined with #StaceFace wearing her signature large black shades for proof.)

We caught up with Bendet ahead of the label's NYFW presentation last week. Watch the designer talk about the inspiration behind the collection, see peeks of the eclectic presentation, and catch body painting artist Trina Merry bring the enchantress to life using the models as canvases.