Chicago - November 05, 2007

The Highest Form of Flattery

Imitation by IOC

You wanted to be like Mike. You tried to be like a virgin (that didn’t last long).

These days, you’re down to just being you.

Imitation notwithstanding.

The newly launched diffusion line by Imitation of Christ, led by Australian designer Kasia Bilinski (TSE, Richard Chai, Naum, ThreeAsFour), is sophisticated and accessible (unlike Madge’s cone-shaped bras).

Bilinski maintained hints of IOC’s avant-garde aesthetic then took it down a notch, focusing on clean, understated lines and minimal embellishment.

The fall collection consists entirely of knits (wool, silk, Japanese woven angora jersey) and dark tones (black, charcoal, ebony), and uses intricate paneling and seaming techniques. The short-sleeve merino wool jersey tee has a silk triangle insert in the back of the neck. Another top has asymmetric panels and long dolman sleeves.

It’s looking pretty original from here.

Kind of like you.

Available at Barneys New York, 25 East Oak Street, at Rush Street (312-587-1700).