Preen’s Thea Bregazzi and Justin Thornton manipulate materials to achieve origami-like effects. The dynamic duo’s folded, twisted, draped, and deconstructed creations constitute Preen’s signature look. But when such intricate pieces are cast in gloomy colors, the intended 3D effects can end up rather muted. Hence, the gifted designers’ decision to work with dusty pinks, ivory, and gunpowder for spring 2006, not only conjured a happy, weightless, ephemeral feeling, but also amplified the impact of their sophisticated conceptions.

Bregazzi and Thornton’s style is a cross between Balenciaga’s architectural constructions and Issey Miyake’s geometric sculpture like clothes that gain volume and mobility on the human form. Preen’s new collection is a fine execution of innovative vision sans contrived artistic shock effects. These clothes are simple, pared down, light, yet complex and interesting.

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