In the past, when I envisioned high fashion, I usually thought of Paris, Milan, NYC, London and yes, Bombay. Far from my thoughts was the city of Bucharest or the country of Romania. But lately, I have been hearing an increasingly louder style buzz coming from that part of the world. It all started for me when – during NY Fashion Week – I ran into the best fashion photographer this side of the sun, Rodin Banica. This Romanian-born artist of the camera has a special touch when it comes to the details and lines of the garments he photographs. Not to mention the way he makes the models look!

Then, I came across the new brand Party Noire and became obsessed with the clean lines and couture detailing of designer Alina Cosma. Her collection is made up entirely of dresses, just beautifully made dresses. And therein lies the genius. With seamstresses and artisans who come to Party Noire after working with such names as Valentino, John Galliano, Armani and Dolce & Gabbana, the dresses become a wearable work of art. And probably the closest thing to owning a couture outfit for most of us mere mortals.

When I had the opportunity to view some of the delicious garments up close, they were simply irresistible. The fabrics, the best heavy silks, velvet and the finest wools, the seams and details absolutely luxurious and the ideas cool yet still classic and wearable. Mind you, my point of view is always one of the girl about town in NYC but the lace panels dress (shown at top) is just so sexy, so vibrant and elegant. Can you picture yourself walking into a party wearing this black velvet number?! You could be sued for inducing whip lash in those poor, unsuspecting male guests there.

Now that I have tickled your interest, let me share with you another secret of Party Noire: these fantastic dresses are currently sold only through their own website – so you’ll always be the sole girl at the party wearing one of Ms. Cosma’s creations. That is a big bonus, trust me, and this coming from the woman who came face to face with a six-foot amazon wearing the same blue sequin jacket at a Gala last week! It’s not an experience I wish any of you to go through.

Photos courtesy of Alina Cosma – ©2008