One to Watch: Zubair Kirmani

A few weeks ago, I got a fantastic package: Two tunics from Zubair Kirmani, the talented Indian designer I'd met (and whose debut collection I drooled over) last fall in New Delhi. I immediately wore out one of his tops with skinny black pants (on a shorter person, it would be an adorable mini-dress) and got a ridiculous amounts of compliments, even from people whose idea of style is usually something along the lines of Eddie Bauer. That speaks volumes about Zubair's designs: You can recognize they're really special even if you're not a fashion type.

I was disappointed not to be able to make it for fashion week in Delhi last month, because I always really enjoy seeing what the Indian designers are doing and also because it was Zubair's runway debut and I would have loved to see his work in action. He very nicely sent me a preview of his collection – just gorgeous, with all the signature detail and simple palettes that are becoming his hallmark – which (as I suspected) quickly earned him the role of the darling of India Fashion Week, attracting attention from Bloomingdale's (who placed an order) and just about everyone who caught his standout show (including Hilary Alexander).

Here's a glimpse of a few of my favorite looks from Zubair's collection. I particularly love the vintage silhouette of the full skirts – they go perfectly with his modern fabric designs.

{I promise, photos of my own pieces from Zubair will be featured very soon!}