As we wait "on pause" for the new world that will emerge from this pandemic, my mind is awhirl with visions of the vibrant world that lies just ahead—I can't stop thinking of that “black-and-white to color" moment. The limbo that we are living in will turn psychedelic, exuberant with color and pattern–– it's going to be Phantasmadelic!

It reminds me of the 1968 film “Wonderwall” by Joe Massot, when a bored scientist (Jack MacGowran) discovers a hole through his wall and sees swinging sixties model Penny Lane (Jane Birken) on the other side. In contrast to his colorless existence, everything about her is dazzling including her apartment, designed by The Fool who also did the clothes and decor of Apple Boutique for The Beatles.

Transcending that wall is what inspires me.  Mixing traditional with whimsy, black and white with bright ambers and magenta; layering pattern on pattern, faux cowhide, lurex stripes, Wavy Vibe knits, windowpane tweed plaids, faux suede with fairytale trims, printed mesh with contrast lettuce edging, and floral chiffons festooned with lace.

There are many pieces in the collection that resulted from creative collaborations: Birdie Purl hand knit ombre colored sweaters and crochet star vests and hats;  cosmic jeans hand-painted and bleached by Anna Castellano;  crushed velvet printed with snakes and peacocks by artist Monika Forsberg;  psychedelic t-shirts and patches by Golden Daze Illustration and Olivia Sui; recycled acetate technicolor tortoise glasses by Fellow Earthlings for Mondottica; quilted and trimmed print masks and kerchiefs; hand-beaded star mask chains by Isabelle Sui; Anna Sui print sports bra and bicycle shorts in collaboration with Knix; and even Anna Sui print travel bags with Kipling. Patterned knee socks by Atsugi for Anna Sui, and printed Chelsea boots and appliquéd suede knee high boots by John Fluevog complete the looks.

Through the doors of the magical, brightly hued wardrobe cabinet painted by Sarah Oliphant, the models will appear in their Phantasmadelic outfits. Soon we will join the party on the other side!