DOLCE AND GABBANA SPRING 2016

DOLCE AND GABBANA SPRING 2016

Design extraordinaires, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana produced an uplifting collection brimming with Italian heritage. The colourful, flamboyant display held all the hallmark features of Dolce and Gabbana with kitsch motifs throughout reigning supreme.

Katya Ledneva modelled a lustrous, pewter, brocade pea coat emblazoned with the slogan 'Italia is love'. Embellishment came in the form of colossal sized daisy buttons, tapestry gardenias, jonquil applique, sequined lemons, flora and fauna splashed about. An ornate, gold, flower crown featured a cherub centrepiece. Gargantuan white rosettes and angels were suspended from lobes. Gold slippers complete with gold foil rosettes concluded the look.

A round neck, mesh, transparent midi dress was plastered with black, olive and tomato red botanica. The signature Dolce and Gabbana black bralet was teamed underneath. Crochet doilies adorned the full circle skirt adding an artisan edge. A floral headband was ignited by canary yellow pom poms and cobalt gemstones.

Italy does oriental as Estelle Chen took to the runway in a bold fuchsia kimono wrap dress, highlighted by roses.An ebony, lace petticoat peeked coquettishly beneath the kimono hem.Flower power headphones were the ultimate accessory of choice, finalised with multi tasseled ends. As Chen approached the end of the runway fellow model Eva Berzina snapped a selfie on the runway. 

Warm days spent in Capri called for the wardrobe staple sundress. Thick apron straps, square neckline, full circle skirt and black buttons added plenty of Italian charm. Sweet innocence prevailed on a heavenly white lace insert, baby doll mini dress. Undulating blue and white blooms added a burst of colour. Lavender sandals were heavily embellished with crystal flower motifs.

A diaphanous, boatneck maxi billowed with every stride Larissa Mascarenhas made. Details included an azure and yellow border-print silk chiffon fabric, long sleeves, tapered waist and voluminous skirt. Mammoth, gimmicky lemon and daisy earrings and a lemon decorated tiara were statement making additions.

Hand painted Italian scenery graced a sweetheart neckline bralet in shades of turquoise, carmine, daffodil yellow and khaki. A wide, black elasticised band sat high on the torso and flowed seamlessly into a full swirling skirt illustrated with Italian tourist destinations; perfect attire for an Italian screen siren.

For those who prefer tailoring with a subtle, masculine edge opt for the Spanish, matador inspired,polka dot, three piece suit. Details include cropped, shrunken jacket, matching waistcoat complete with velvet covered buttons and tapered 7/8 trousers. An ostentatious, black velvet and gold minaudiere oozed with decadence.

An effervescent, collection sure to brighten your day.

By Courtney Jones.

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

1) Luxury lover-

H&M bra $21

MOET & CHANDON Brut Imperial $50

REPOSSI Stack Ring $22 080

SAINT LAURENT Fringe Handbag $3162

JO MALONE Candle $90

VOGUE PARIS Magazine $14.95

GUCCI Sunglasses $800

SAINT LAURENT Sandals $985

DIOR Makeup Palette $110

TIFFANY & CO Diamond Earrings POA

MAC Lipstick $36

2) Tailored, casual cool-

MICHAEL KORS Watch $489

RAY-BAN Aviators $250

PARKER Pen $100

CALVIN KLEIN Trunks $52

RELIGION T-Shirt $40

BALLY Satchel $1650

PAUL SMITH Jeans $250

APPLE iPHONE 6s $1250

ACQUA DI GIO Eau De Parfum $145

POLO RALPH LAUREN Chambray Shirt $220

TODS Suede Loafer $600

3) Ocean explorer-

WITCHERY KIDS Stripe Tee $36

RAY-BAN Wayfarers $56

HAVAIANAS Thongs $38

DOT & BO Beach Art $39

US DIVERS Junior Snorkelling Combo $25

ONEILL Boardshorts $44

PUMPKIN PATCH Slip On $39

BONDS Chino $20

SEED HERITAGE Backpack $39.95

ROSANNA Beach Wall Decor $28

4) Dainty, girlie charm-

SEED HERITAGE Fedora $29.95

RAY-BAN Mirrored Aviators $59.95

SEED HERITAGE Two Piece $41

SEED HERITAGE Indian Bracelet Set $9.95

MACARONS Ladurée Macarons $3 each

PUMPKIN PATCH Sun Dress $37

SEED HERITAGE  T-bar Jelly Sandals $34

By Courtney Jones.

RODARTE SPRING 2016

RODARTE SPRING 2016

Supremely skilled design duo Kate and Laura Mulleavy of Rodarte delivered an utterly feminine collection brimming with enchantment. The breathtaking display offered poetic garments tinged with a glam rock edge for the impeccably stylish woman; seventies nostalgia prevalent throughout.

Model Jessica Burley took to the runway in  a high neck, Victorian inspired dress comprising of a composition of fabrics including billowy paisley sleeves in shades of Indian red and teal, heavenly white lace decolletage insert, silk chiffon drop waist, undulating beaded bodice finalised with silk fringing. Scintillating, silver, reptilian, Art Deco, sculptural heels were paired to ebony, lace, tights.

An eggshell, velvet slip dress was punctuated by black velvet and lace trimmings. Sweetheart neckline and lace-up detail added a whimsical element. A dip dyed, Mongolian lamb fur coat starred in raven and alabaster while a double layered skinny scarf in ivory and onyx concluded the look.

Dark, gothic, opulence radiated on a coruscating, streamlined, black cocktail dress. Countless rows of silver bugle beading ignited the decadent long sleeves and bodice. A scalloped, plunging neckline combined sass and sophistication.

Danish model Line Brems modelled an effervescent blend consisting of a ruffled silk cami, high waisted suede dove grey pantalons in languid proportions, a silk chiffon scarf embellished with silver bugle beads in floral motifs and a gargantuan Mongolian fur chubby in blanc and noir. Spliced, silver metallic booties screamed sixties mod squad.  

Aussie, Madison Stubbington modelled a dusty rose, mahogany and grape wraparound dress. Lustrous, lamé, long sleeves featured rosewood, velvet, bell cuffs. A chain belt was accentuated by a floral, silver, metal centrepiece. Accessories included a double layered scarf worn knotted nonchalantly around the neck; one in an ethnic paisley print and the other embellished with sequins and beading. Under the knee, silver snakeskin, slashed boots revealed panes of black triangular detail.

Gossamer airiness  dominated on an ethereal, plunging lace dress. A collage of black and white lace ignited the romantic ensemble. Details included delicate, flared elbow sleeve and mandarin rosettes encompassing the waist. A series of gold, decadent jewellery comprised of collarbone grazing, bohemian, chandelier earrings, wraparound flower crown and a menagerie of medieval bracelets worn piled on both wrists. Chunky finger armour adorned hands.   

Serene conviction prevailed on a mystical, transparent black lace dress modelled by Hedvig Palm. Silk fringing lit up the high neckline which flowed seamlessly into a sheer crystal embellished decolletage, scalloped lace bust panel and lace drop waist.

Pulchritude, romance and unmitigated finesse all hallmark features of the standout collection.  

By Courtney Jones. 

GLOBETROTTER"S BAZAAR JEWELLERY

GLOBETROTTER'S BAZAAR JEWELLERY

Hailing from Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, GLOBETROTTER’S BAZAAR delivers authentic, ethnic, jewellery for the ultimate beach bohemian babe.

Handcrafted tribal pieces are inspired by semi nomadic women of Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, India, Nepal, Kuchi and Turkey.

Must have pieces include ornate slave bracelets, coin festooned bib necklaces and free spirited bracelets, perfect for layering, adding a decorative edge to your summer ensemble.

Release your inner gypsy and succumb to bold, characterful pieces exuding exotic excursions abroad. Statement, covet worthy jewellery is coated in antique silver which won’t tarnish and doesn’t contain lead or nickel.

Pick up your exclusive GLOBETROTTER’S BAZAAR treasure at Balmain Markets this Saturday 21^st November 8.30am-4pm.

Instagram- GLOBETROTTERSBAZAAR

1) FORTUNE HUNTER TURQUOISE NECKLACE $50

2) FORTUNE HUNTER ONYX NECKLACE $50

   CELESTIAL COIN NECKLACE $60

 

3) Left hand

   TURKISH OTTOMAN SLAVE BRACELET $85

   ZODIAC FLORAL BRACELET $45

   TURQUOISE NAVAJO RING $120

   Right hand

   STELLAR COIN DROP BRACELET $45

   GALAXY TREASURE COIN BRACELET $60

   ONYX POISON RING $150

   IRIDESCENT WIDE BAND RING $30

4) As before in box 3

5) EMPIRE TEARDROP BIB NECKLACE $70

6) LUNAR ECLIPSE PENDANT DROP NECKLACE $70

7) BOHO VOYAGER MULTI COIN DROP NECKLACE $65

8) BOHO VOYAGER  MULTI COIN DROP NECKLACE $65  – worn as a boot bracelet

9) MYSTICAL HEROINE BIB NECKLACE W/ COIN PENDANTS $90

By Courtney Jones.

GUCCI SPRING 2016

GUCCI SPRING 2016

Designer Alessandro Michele of Gucci delivered a sassy, sophisticated collection enlivened with bourgeois, peasant folklore. The scene was set in a desuetude train depot in Milan proving to be the perfect backdrop for a retro inspired collection.

The show opened with a broccolini green, lace, under the knee dress. A plunging ruffled neckline highlighted the decolletage which was adorned by a series of beaded layered necklaces in shades of turquoise, canary yellow and fire engine red. A ribbed, racing stripe, signature, Gucci belt attenuated the waist. Heritage Gucci loafers in the shade of chocolate added androgyny to the ensemble.

Ladylike demure radiated on a salmon, chiffon, poetic blouse. Scalloped bib insert, flared bell sleeve and flower corsage centrepiece brimmed with old world glam. The blouse was worn tucked into a scarlet, embroidered satin midi skirt enriched with oriental qualities. Aqua, T-bar platforms concluded the look.

Sicilian overtones dominated on a billowy, deep decolletage, characterful midi dress. The fabric print resembled a treasure map with words including generosity, sincerity and respect splashed across the garment. Undulating lines engulfed the sapphire, aquamarine and sand hued dress; a scintillating lemon sequin belt added sparkle. 

A decadent maxi dress was a standout in a kaleidoscope of colour. A ruffled bib collar shined in sequin topaz. Patchwork brocade in a riot of colour including mint, mandarin, grape, lavender and daisy ignited the bohemian number which brimmed with traditional Italian dress elements. Bouffant, ruffled sleeves and a tiered skirt added volume to the silhouette. Oversized, tortoiseshell glasses added the geek chic factor.

A kitsch, artisanal, seventies derived suit featured in shrunken proportions. A crisp white, sharp shouldered blazer was embellished with floral fauna embroidery in bold shades of lady bug red, ebony and forest green. Matching, tailored, slimline trousers with subtle flare also starred floral motifs and a swirling snake. A sky blue, classic, cotton poplin shirt was teamed underneath the jacket with a pink pineapple embossed tie delivering a quirky edge.

Grandeur with a bohemian twist came in the form of a high neck, ruffled placket blouse. Intricate lemon curd sequins and a red dainty sequin bow adorned the neck. Cobalt and gold brocade plentifully bestrewn the bodice while petal pink, 3/4, brocade sleeves complemented the deluxe hippie creation. Accessories included oversized, square, gold spangled glasses, a raven turban and bejewelled, cocktail, knuckle duster rings.

Vintage refinement was prevalent on an apple green, chiffon, midi dress. Gossamer airiness added a certain fragility. Bouffant sleeves, ruffled bib and drop waist tiered skirt billowed with every stride Elizabeth Moore took on the runway. A vermilion, floral corsage was accented by a stark white collar. Opulent, brocade, horsebit loafers finalised the look.

Preppy tenderness ruled on a pastel mauve, gingham, short scalloped sleeve shirt. Delicate ruffles cascaded down the shirt which was nipped in at the waist by a gold, leather,studded, ruby belt complete with interlocking GG gold insignia. A sunflower yellow, brocade skirt featured flounce hem, floral embroidery peppered throughout. A beatnik striped beret screamed free spirited hippie.

An ornate, colourful display enriched with neo romantic connotations as Michele continues to steer away from Gucci's previous predecessors, conveying his vision of geek girl does Gucci.

By Courtney Jones. 

VERSACE SPRING 2016

VERSACE SPRING 2016

Donatella Versace's uplifting Spring 2016 collection was steeped in combat undertones. Crisp, defined silhouettes brimming of urban jungle warrior radiated on the runway, models ready for battle.

Brazilian catwalk veteran Raquel Zimmermann opened the collection in a khaki, elongated blazer in distinguished lines. The sensual, sophisticated number starred in micro proportions. Oversized pockets featured contrasting olive racing stripes. A three tone onyx, butterscotch and green webbing belt complete with silver Versace centrepiece accentuated the waist. Platform, peep toe, booties were finalised with suede criss-cross detail and gold insignia.

Natasha Poly modelled an admirably wearable, rich camel, military inspired overcoat. Four large pockets punctuated the drawstring coat which grazed the upper thigh. A simplistic shift dress in the shade of seaweed was teamed underneath.

A bold, emerald, camo print highlighted a deep v-neck mini dress, modelled by Victoria's Secret fave, Behati Prinsloo. The form fitting, body con, number featured streamlined darting and flap pockets.Black scalloped pocket lining peeked cheekily below the dress hemline. Anna Ewers modelled an eighties inspired ensemble comprising of a relaxed panelled sweater in shades of sugilite, electric jade and slate. Patterns included zebra, leopard, and solid black. Tailored, camouflage print shorts concluded the punchy number. Ribbed, spinach hued, socks were twinned to strappy, grass green, platforms.

An undulating, Pucci-esque, amethyst, pine and emerald green sleek longline tuxedo jacket was paired to highwaisted, precision cut, micro shorts. A narrow grape bandeau was layered to the jacket. A luxurious camo scarf with gold insignia hardware added finesse to the seventies derived garb.

A textural, round neck, asymmetrical drop waist mini dress starred in lavender suede, turquoise green leather and waxy black exotic leather inserts. Platform leather workman's boots toughened the feminine, flirty arabesque.

A succession of blouson sleeve mini dresses punctuated the runway in a series of different fabrics and finishes; from the casual mans style sky blue pinstripe to the amplified organza ebony or the graphic tangerine, tan, ribena, raven silk satin version all contained the hallmark feature webbing belt. The nipped in waist was very much in attendance.

A languid pantsuit shone in the shade of pecan. The relaxed trousers were generously cut and sat low on the hip. A rigorously cut blazer came complete with fringed trimmings. A tangerine, bandeau crop was body baring. An Italian scarf print graced a silk neck tie.

Amplified Versace buzz dominated on a suggestive, plunging, maxi dress, ideal for a sexy siren. Details included gossamer zebra lace slip layered to an asymmetrical camo print which swathed the torso and cascaded effortlessly to the ground. A provocative leg split concluded the sizzling number. A string of lavish, enlivened cocktail mini dresses closed the collection and beckoned to be worn by the empowered Versace woman. Variants included a mauve, rouleau mesh embellished style and a kale hued barely there, transparent slip dress starring scintillating sequins in surging patterns.

By Courtney Jones.

 

BALMAIN x H&M

BALMAIN x H and M COLLABORATION

Designer Olivier Rousteing unveiled his highly anticipated Balmain x H and M collaboration on October 20th in New York. The runway extravaganza was set in a subway terminal and featured catwalk appearances from a roll call of supermodels including Karlie Kloss, Joan Smalls, Alessandro Ambrosio and Toni Garrn. A high octane performance by American nineties boyband, Backstreet Boys set the scene, belting out their number one hit, 'Everybody'.

Fashion celeb of the moment, Kendall Jenner opened the collection in an ebony, hand embellished tunic featuring bronze, silver and gold beading throughout. Details included 3/4 sleeves, velvet cuffs, square neckline and signature boxing belt waist cincher. The opulent tunic was paired to languid, velvet, palazzo pants.

Victoria's Secret fave, Alessandro Ambrosio modelled an electric cobalt, structured shoulder, body con mini dress. Geometric diamond motifs were splashed across the scintillating number. Opaque stockings and caged, gladiator, peep toe booties concluded the after dark number.

Parisienne model Nadja Bender strutted with conviction in a strapless, lavish, embroidered mini dress. The gold brocade worked effortlessly against the sumptuous velvet bodice. Lady bug red, corded, choker necklace and cuff punctuated the arabesque with a jolt of colour. A boxy, elongated, tailored vest added urban elegance to the ensemble.

The liquid satin, ruched, tulip skirt was reincarnated and sat high on the thigh. The satin caressed the model's hips saucily. A peak shoulder, plunging blouse featured billowy sleeves with eighties powerhouse connotations reigning supreme. Second skin stretch suede leggings were twinned to suede, pointy toe, stiletto booties. The tulip skirt silhouette combination also starred against a sensual, peek-a-boo top in midnight complete with transparent, flesh baring panels. A navy, military inspired, polished overcoat was worn over the shoulders and featured prominent gold button accoutrement.

Fluid, ink, silk satin dhoti pants, reminiscent of MC Hammer does ostentation were modelled by ubermodel Karlie Kloss. A simplistic bandeau, stomach baring, crop was coupled to a luxurious beaded tuxedo jacket in streamlined proportions.

Calling all fur lovers; a mahogany and black faux fur flecked chubby ticked all the right boxes. The fur jacket was highlighted by an emerald jumpsuit featuring lace raven design motif, undeniable glamour for the perennial party girl.

Jourdan Dunn modelled one of the most replicated blazers of the decade. The form fitting ivory blazer came complete with double breasted gold button closure. The waist was defined by a matching, wide, belt displaying gold arrow centrepiece and iridescent trimmings. Molten peg leg trousers created volume. Bandage wrap sandals finalised the standout addition.

The Balmain x H and M collection launches in Sydney on Thursday November 5th. Pieces are available at the newly launched Pitt Street Mall H and M flagship store (October 31st) and Macquarie Centre. Plenty of affordable garments on offer with more deluxe pieces fetching over $500 and as Rousteing proudly stated, "What is Balmain is what is me".

By Courtney Jones.

 

ISABEL MARANT SPRING 2016

ISABEL MARANT SPRING 2016

French designer Isabel Marant channelled the cultural lineage of North India's Rajasthan for her Spring 2016 collection. A colourful display was on offer bursting with distinctive Marant hallmark features for the bohemian globetrotter with a taste for all things embodying nomadic luxe.

Model Zuzu Tadeushuk opened the show in a cuffed, parachute silk, harem pant, which tapered at the ankle. The hip hugging pants offered freedom of movement and brimmed of energised cool. An ebony kimono inspired jacket was paired to an artisanal overcoat complete with frayed, raw effects hem and colourful embroidery in shades of magenta, silver, raven and fuchsia.

A pristine serape was updated with pearl trimmings and worn asymmetrically for a modernistic approach. White, effortless, peg leg trousers were an understated addition. Bold, strappy, rope entwined heels offered a gladiatorial air. A canary yellow chunky choker and lariat added a jolt of colour to the neckline.

Metallic pewter accents highlighted a relaxed, bouffant sleeve, hooded anorak which billowed with every stride Lexi Boling made. A ribbed, funnel neck, knit in milk was worn tucked into black knitted, high waisted briefs. Nautical rope pool slides concluded the look.

Danish theater actor turned model, Mathilde Brandi ignited the runway in scintillating, ice silver, sequin briefs. Ethnic Indian inspired wares continued to frequent the runway and dominated on a mirrored, embroidered, fringed tunic. The characterful garment featured high neck,  structured shoulders, 3/4 frayed sleeves and subtle peplum; an effervescent garment brimming with undeniable charm.

The classic white shirt was updated in an oversized, man style, arabesque complete with darting, gargantuan chest pockets, tabs and a button funnel neck. High waisted shorts in a fabric resembling aluminium foil were cut high on the thigh and radiated beautifully against the stark, white shirt. Tomato red, gladiator, rope sandals in cumbersome proportions were the footwear of choice.

Frenchy Josephine Le Tutour transmogrified into a bona fide, deluxe, jet setting hippie in a boxy, peak shoulder vest which was married to a pewter, lamé, voluminous blouse and a shrunken, ivory, sequin embellished jacket. Cuffs featured embroidery in a riot of colour. Shades included cumin, teal, paprika and bronze. Pearls and frayed trimmings punctuated the hemline. Monochromatic, pinstripe dhoti pants were of relaxed proportions. Ine Neefs modelled a full length overcoat version of the cropped ivory jacket which was teamed to liquid, iridescent, mercury hued sweat pants,oozing with insouciance. A combination rich in techy sportswear references.

Archival remnants continue to shine and will no doubt appeal to Marant aficionados galore.

By Courtney Jones.