Washington, D.C. - August 26, 2008

Built to Last

Crhee Fall Collection

When architecture and fashion come together, the typical result is a monument applique on a tourist T-shirt.

Fortunately for all of us, designer Christine Rhee brings the two together in a more sophisticated way.

Trained as an architect before turning to fashion, Rhee creates pieces in primarily black, white, and gray that are clean, tailored, modern, and adorned with unexpected details.

The Slowdive black A-line dress teases with racy back cutouts. Color-blocked gray and black gabardine pants have the prep appeal of haute equestrian attire, while a hooded blouse gives a reprieve from a boring collar. In each, Rhee’s training in strong foundations and innovative shapes is apparent.

Looks like she put those building blocks to good use.

Available online at crhee.com or standarddeviationny.com.