Costello Tagliapietra Makes Us Want to Believe in Magic

Costello Tagliapietra referenced fairy tales and science fiction as inspirations for its Fall 2014 collection, but a boardroom warrior would be an apter wearer of the brand's lean and flattering dresses than a damsel in distress. With a muted palette of amethyst, loden green, and black, the design duo created sensuous jersey dresses ruched at just the right spots, fuzzy cardigans worn off the shoulder, and sharply tailored evening pantsuits. A new, standout technique was leather-bound seams that opened A-line skirts into full pleats, making walking with confidence a snap.

In a signature sweet move, the designers dedicated the show to their recently deceased bulldog, noting, "We love you and miss you so much." Bear hugs all around.