For her pre-fall collection, designer Maria McManus drew inspiration from the works of Scottish artist Wilhelmina Barns-Graham. A prominent member of the Penwith Society of Arts, Barns-Graham created abstract paintings that were deeply rooted in nature. One particular quote attributed to the artist resonated with McManus: “I am concerned with the inner structure of things rather than their outer appearance.”

Reflecting on this quote in her Tribeca home, McManus found a connection to her own design philosophy. She emphasized the importance of considering all aspects of a garment, beyond just manufacturing and quality. The influence of Barns-Graham’s work is evident in the collection’s color palette, featuring subtle greens and browns inspired by the artist’s “Small Energy” drawings.

Building on the soft romanticism of her previous collections, McManus introduced a range of designs that exuded femininity and elegance. Clingy knit dresses, lace-trimmed lingerie-inspired pieces, and slinky capri pants with delicate stitching showcased her attention to detail. It’s worth noting that McManus uses heavy fabrics to create a lingerie-like aesthetic without compromising on comfort.

The collection also embraced a cheeky secretary vibe, with pencil skirts paired with striped blouses and accessorized with matching scarves. A playful touch was added with the inclusion of a chubby faux fur bolero, adding a whimsical element to McManus’s vision.