Carlos Miele Spring 2009

A celebration of all things Brazilian was at the core of Carlos Miele's Spring show. Megastar Seu Jorge performed live; "it was a special song I made just for Carlos," the singer said backstage, fresh from mingling with the models as they breezed across the runway in the floaty chiffon gowns Miele is known for.

Miele drew inspiration from the lush rain forest that borders his hideaway in Florianópolis: The shadows, colors, and movement of the vegetation inspired splashy tropical patterns and billowy, whisper-thin layers. Brazilian-sourced natural stones were polished and used to trim plunging necklines, while extra-chunky rough-cut versions adorned cuffs and rings.