Romantic love in swirls for Costello Tagliapietra

The two used a waterless heat-transfer process called AirDye to create double-colored pieces on fabrics as thin as chiffon, including some with swirly prints inspired by the look of paint on canvas.

The two included a dress with a wrap front in pale violet and "dress coats" to complement all sizes in teal and rose. Many of the pair's dresses, including some just above the floor, featured gathers at the side and center.

"We wanted it to be about falling in love. It was the emotion, the romance we wanted," Tagliapietra said backstage after the downtown show.

They used a solid olive for a wearable blouse and skirt, along with a cowl-neck dress for all ages. They put gathers at the sides and centers of the spring 2013 collection comprised almost exclusively of dresses, some in camisole style and others with halter necklines.

The partners, whose label is called Costello Tagliapietra, said they're interested in dressing all comers, young or old, stick thin or plus size.

"We've dressed 18 year olds. We've dressed 75 year olds. You have to please everyone," Costello said.

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