Roving Reporter: Chris Benz

Chris Benz knows some of the seemingly conservative Upper East Side women in New York just want to go downtown and kick it. With that in mind, he presented a collection of 60s-inspired separates with a few dresses - whether zany-printed or simple and ladylike - thrown in for girls sick of bland office wear.


Mary Quant would be proud of the amount of leg flashed from these skirts, but Benz dulls the intrigue with opaque tights. I love the asymmetry of the grassy green dress, and the square-cut coat brings out another season trend.


Around a simple trench, Benz blasts out geometric tights and a bright-yellow cap to loosen things up. The light-coloured pumps are a good alternative to the mega boots from other designers.


And to really break out of the office girl mould, Ben offered up Basso & Brooke-style, bold prints. The button-up blouse and burgundy maxi make an interesting combination, and I could easily see the one-sleeved dress in the East End.

Thoughts on Mr Benz, anyone?