Rad Hourani S/S 09

In a solid white studio in New York's Nolita neighborhood, an army of androgynous cyborg-like models marched through a maze of benches, clad from head to toe in black, black and more black. A well-dressed friend turned to me and said, "This stuff makes me want to go home and burn all of my clothing." And I'd pretty much have to agree. If my wardrobe consisted entirely of Rad Hourani, I'd be a very happy girl.

Nominated as one of Style.com's "Top Ten New Designers" after showing his A/W '08 collection in Paris, Rad Hourani has become a hot name for editors and stylists to watch. At just 25 years of age, the self-taught Montreal-based designer has built a solid reputation based upon his penchant for stark minimalism, strong geometric shapes, razor sharp cuts and bondage detailing a la Raf Simmons.

Of his designs Hourani says, "They are asexual, aseasonal, they come from no place, no time no tradition, yet they could be home anywhere, any time. They exude a sense of discreet chic, the essence of timeless style, drawn on a monochromatic and graphical canvas...sophisticated modern classics for anti-conformist individuals."

Consisting of impeccably tailored jackets, tunics, vests and skinny rocker pants adorned with methodically cut-out details and rectangular strips of leather, Hourani's unisex collection evoked crew of sophisticated cyber-goth militants from the future. Forget color for spring: the darkness is taking over.