When former Imitation of Christ designer Tara Subkoff sold her line and severed her relationship with the label, we worried that the new ready-to-wear diffusion line would be a disappointing, ahem, imitation of the original. Famed for its daring runway shows, Imitation of Christ has gained a veritable cult following—could that covetable offbeat sensibility continue without Tara?

We have been pleasantly pleased with Josh Sparks’ creative vision that maintains the fashion-forward aesthetic of Imitation while producing a wearable elegance. The former Sass and Bide CEO demonstrates an understated luxury with his Spring 2008 collection. Rich fabrics exhibit sensuality and fluidity, and the designs offer various ways to wear and layer each garment for a playful twist on the avant-garde. We accept no copycats—it’s only Imitation for us.