Touches of exoticism and novelty always seem to bring more notice to fashion collections. Distinctive foreign references can be used effectively to establish a designer’s originality.

Case in point, Christian Cota’s Fall 2012-Winter 2013 collection, where creativity reigns supreme. This collection featured a variety of indigenous Mexican textile prints, many referencing native designs. The particular twist with these nods, though, is that he made them unique and modern; he actually hand-dyed some of the fabrics as well as reworked established folkloric textiles patterns to deliver looks that were truly extraordinary and unlike anything we recall having seen before.

Cota showcased these design references in truly interesting ways throughout pants, jackets, blouses and more in a collection that offered a little something for everyone. The looks weren’t for the minimalist-minded – those who favor architectural streamlined silhouettes and monochrome palettes. His collection screamed color, pattern, texture.

On the fur front, his intarsia or quilting treatment read beautifully (we hope he continues working that technique, which was huge in Haute couture circles of the late 70s, early 80s, but relatively rare nowadays). His voluminous fur trims read amazingly well with his ponchos, as the movement they generated with the wearer was stunning. And his mink passementerie treatments are standouts.

Christian Cota is still a young label. We hope he begins to get the recognition he deserves as his creative voice has nice things to say.