Photo gallery: Rodarte Fall 2010 collection

Pasadena’s own denizens Laura and Kate Mulleavy came out strong at New York Fashion Week this morning in Rodarte‘s fall 2010 collection, worthy of an ethereal ghost bride with a penchant for neutrals, lace and a touch of pearls.

Still present were their bold textures and patchwork layering, but the muted color palette put a dreamlike haze over the affair. Where before their designs were almost tribal, that quality was overtaken by a spectral, romantic glow.

The Mulleavys have said they were inspired, among other things, by the notion of sleepwalking.

The woven shag effect in some of these pieces echoed the New York Times Magazine spread, in which Rodarte designed high-flying, colorful athletic wear for Olympians. Albeit, in a creamier, dustier palette.

The waxy candelabra pyre was actually the opening video sequence at the show, and in the darkened runway space, its lighting felt ritualistic.

While Rodarte is still fully invested in fantasy, it seems like this collection is their most wearable yet. It’s easy to imagine some bohemian creature wearing the ensembles exactly as they are presented. And, taken as pieces, even more so. For example, the sweater wrap above.

I wasn’t enamored with some of the print picks, but I loved that they hinted at Rodarte’s previously bold color choices. It was as if to say: “You know we can do color. Now look at this.” Elle is already noting this trend across the board at Fashion Week: white, cream, beige and other pale colors everywhere. (And, across the globe, ivory-skinned folks like me shudder and hope for the best.)

The embroidered tights are something to see. (Can I call them tights? They aren’t really that tight.) Here’s a close-up.

Behold, the Golden Fleece, which appears to have mated with my grandmother’s potholder:

This feminine frock is delightful. The sheer, floaty creations look so breezy and comfortable on the runway.

Love this look, below. The shoes, with a touch of red, really complete it. And that’s not even mentioning the other inspired accessories.

Check out the strands of green pearls at the waist, below. The draping offsets this essentially old-fashioned, meet-me-on-the-veranda print.

And then there was plaid. Not sure about this look.

The print in the skirt below was among those few elements I disliked. The multi-layer draping and hem, however, are gorgeous.

OK, I saved all the snow- and off-white creations for last. When you see them in a series, the garments are really breathtaking.

Here’s a closer look, so you can see the incredible layers and pearls.

This distressed feminine number, below, may be my favorite look of the whole collection, if only for the broad lace pattern and hints of powder pink.

And lest you think white automatically equals meek and demure, check this tough cookie:

She goes on for miles and miles in this dreamy silhouette.