Cushnie et Ochs Spring 2013 | Runway

Michelle Ochs and Carly Cushnie are feeling beachy for Spring 2013. But don't go thinking that means a collection filled with Hawaiian prints and wide-brimmed hats. This is still Cushnie et Ochs, after all, and the brand has made a name for itself — and garnered a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund nomination in the process — with its signature femme fatale dressing. So, despite finding inspiration in the relaxed beach dressing of the Philippines (Ochs's home country), the duo stayed true to form.

Body-skimming dresses were the main focus here; some came with architecturally sharp shoulders, some with skin-exposing panels, and all were impeccably cut. The palette was strictly white, black, violet, and sea foam, with fabrics ranging from leather to embroidered organza or lace. A series of scroll-edged swimwear and a breezy poncho-and-pants combo hinted at that Philippines beach, but it was the use of draping on a pair of slinky wrap dresses that really felt relaxed.