Author: Mix Cacho-Negrete

Contessa Mills might be a newer name in the fashion scene, but I have a feeling she is here to stay.

Buttons as sequins? Genius. Embroidered fish? Fun and not overdone. Shell buttons? Sweet and not too ironic.

When I spoke with Mills, she expressed how much nature inspires her, which explains the many motifs throughout the collection. I appreciated how the natural imagery connected with the garments in a very modern way that I suspect will translate seamlessly into the it girl style everyone loves. Her pieces were neither maximalist nor minimalist, but instead well made with unique elements.

With her nature references, it was fitting that her inaugural CFDA calendar collection was titled The Queen of Cups, which in tarot represents emotional intelligence as strength. Mills also focused on representing water in this collection, as it is the elemental force associated with the card.

Mills’s presentation featured many standout elements. The embellishments I mentioned earlier felt original yet wearable and aligned beautifully with the nature inspired theme. I also admired the silhouettes across the nearly forty looks. Within each section of the collection, there was a shape to suit every kind of consumer. One particular element that stood out was the sequin look that resembled sparkling water, created entirely from tiny buttons. This style appeared as a midi dress, a micro mini dress, and a bolero, offering something for everyone. That is ultimately what I appreciated most about Mills. Her clothes felt slightly fantastical without being excessive. They were pieces anyone could feel comfortable wearing, yet distinctive enough to offer something new.

Overall, the clothes felt perfect for a young woman on the go who wants to invest in pieces she can wear for years. As I told Contessa Mills in person, there was a timeless elegance to this collection, even as it reflected what women want to wear now.

As Mills continues to develop her world, I am curious to see what other aspects of nature she will explore. Regardless, this was an exciting debut from a designer who clearly understands what is missing for the it girls, and I look forward to seeing more.