Seattle - November 09, 2007

Lo and Behold

Engbirk Fall Collection

She was Lo, plain Lo, in the morning, standing four feet ten in one sock. She was Lola in slacks … But in my arms she was always Lolita. —Humbert Humbert

Nabokov: What a perv. But the man sure could spin a sentence. To say nothing for his highly developed fashion sense.

At least as interpreted by Danish designer Pernille Engbirk. We adore her eponymous label’s darkly romantic fall collection, which was inspired by the Russian novelist’s nymphet.

Ruffles play hide and seek beneath a serious wool skirt. Listless bows give a gray tunic a touch of innocence. And an epic black cape keeps your secrets under wraps.

One caveat: Between the quality fabrics and incredible craftsmanship, the clothes are quite sophisticated.

Which is to say these tricks aren’t for kids.

Available at Polite Society, 1924 First Avenue, between Stewart and Virginia Streets (206-441-4796). To see styles, go to engbirk.com.