NYFW SPRING 2014 / Rebecca Minkoff's Latin Love Affair

Rebecca Minkoff takes a trip to Latin America this spring and famous crooner Janelle Monae comes along for the ride

From the LifeMInute team

Music is always an integral part of a runway show but to have it performed live while the models strut their stuff is taking the fashion week experience to another level.

"I'm lucky enough to be able to partner with Am X and they said who is your wish list of a number one performer and I said: Janelle Monae sounds pretty good?, " says designer Rebecca Minkoff.

Minkoff gets her wish ... models have a pep in their step at her spring show thanks to the band playing in the background.

"Just really upbeat and that's how I want the girls to feel .. just strong, sexy and having fun," says Minkoff.

Minkoff hits a high note with combinations like electric yellow and black, intricate embroidery and in-your-face florals.

"So what's new for spring? I was inspired by strong latin American women .. Bianca Jager. I really played with color, texture, flowers and embellishment," says Minkoff.

Minkoff also makes a statement in the makeup department...

"A really strong brow and keep the eyes kinda strong and then leave everything else kinda neutral, " she says.

A hair-raising trend popping-up on several catwalks this week, her girl's rock the braid halo.

"The hair is a softer sort of braid around the head," says Minkoff.

Minkoff's mental trip to Latin locales results in a collection that really packs an ethnic punch --- not to mention makes you want to pack your bags with all her shorts and dresses jet off to Cabo.

"This is one of our dresses. This is again one of the textiles we developed like a mexican blanket but more feminine. This is a great vest. Vests are going to be big this season," says Minkoff.