Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week concluded in New York City on February 16, 2012, after showcasing a variety of trendsetting looks on and off the runway. While more than 80 world-renowned designers – including Vera Wang and Michael Kors – presented their Fall 2012 collections, this year’s title of “Mercedes-Benz Presents” designer went to the talented Naeem Khan.
Khan was born in India and learned about textiles from his father and grandfather who designed ornate clothing for royal families. After moving to the U.S. as a teenager, Khan perfected the art of cutting and draping fabric to create elegant silhouettes. The Naeem Khan line was launched in 2003 and can be found at more than 100 specialty stores throughout the world. The designer is known for his timeless gowns and impeccably cut dresses (all embroidered by hand), and his pieces have appeared on some of today’s most stylish women including Beyonce and First Lady Michelle Obama.
“The admiration we have for Naeem Khan’s designs and his exceptional reputation throughout the fashion industry make him the ideal ‘Mercedes-Benz Presents’ designer,” remarked Lisa Holladay, Manager of Brand Experience Marketing for Mercedes-Benz USA. “His highly-crafted embroidered pieces and breathtaking gowns that grace the runways of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week are expressions of his precision and expertise, and we are thrilled to support his show this season.”
Each year, Mercedes-Benz selects a designer that demonstrates unmatched talent and an eye for quality materials combined with innovative styling. Past “Mercedes-Benz Presents” designers include Carolina Herrera, Monique Lhuillier and Badgley Mischka. The automaker’s fashion standards go far beyond the runway, however, as all its vehicles boast equal attention to superior craftsmanship and design. In the lobby of Lincoln Center, the 2012 ML63 AMG SUV turned heads during Fashion Week with its ultra luxe leather interior, hand sewn cross-stitching, 518-hp hand-built engine and carbon fiber engine cover.
The 2012 ML63 AMG was also the backdrop for the “Fashion’s Night In” event on February 9 where guests were invited to the Mercedes-Benz DIY Style Studio to create personalized fashion accessories out of luxury vehicle materials. Naeem Khan made a special appearance, alongside other big names from the fashion and auto industries.
“As a lifetime Mercedes-Benz owner, the honor of being chosen as the ‘Mercedes-Benz Presents’ designer has a very special meaning to me,” said Naeem Khan. “I am thrilled to receive this accolade from a brand that shares the same passion for innovative design and quality craftsmanship that I do.”
Featuring hand-embroidered gowns and hand-stitched leather seats, Naeem Khan and Mercedes-Benz hosted an unforgettable week of fashion in New York City. As styles change over time, Khan and Mercedes-Benz are two names that will undoubtedly be setting the latest trends.
