Finding that perfect balance between overtly feminine and offsetting masculine is a thin line to walk, but Russian born designer Serguei Povaguin hits the mark. His spring / summer 09 collection proves that dressing feminine is the greatest empowerment any strong willed woman needs.

Inspired by the twentieth century bold shoulders and tiny waists of women such as the femme fatale Mata Hari and the seductive yet powerful Nude Women photographed by Helmut Newton, Povaguin’s spring / summer 09 presentation reinterprets the dated, female silhouettes into shortened leather jackets paired with high-waisted cold wool twill pants. Grays, browns and blacks yield effortlessly into nude colored tanks and striking silk dresses nipped at the waistline with a belt. Voluminous sleeves and shoulders are replaced with a more revealing one-shouldered or strapless neckline while stockings turn into trousers. Large chained metal work finishes off the look with vintage silk scarves and Swarovski crystals are woven throughout the necklaces and brooches.

Most recently awarded the L’Oreal Prize for Best Collection this past September at Madrid’s Fashion Week, El Ego de Cibeles, Povaguin’s designs are closely watched and lauded by fashion critic Diane Pernet. And with a clientele hungry for his feminine twists, you might want to put your order in soon. Found retailers such as Spain’s Yedra, Berlin’s Redspective or through the designer’s atelier with his line of accessories available at Harvey Nichols Hong Kong and at Adam et Ropé in Japan, this is one inspired collection that is anything but stuck in the past.

For more information, visit www.sergueipovaguin.com

-KYLE LANDMAN