Michael Kors Spring 2014

Michael Kors Spring 2014 RTW

Illustrious designer Michael Kors produced an uplifting S/S 14/15 collection. Crisp, feminine silhouettes oozed of polished panache. Generously cut, full circle skirts in midi length proportions dominated the collection offering romanticism and freedom of movement. New York fifties style housewife meets Brigitte Bardot on the French Riviera best conjures up Kors' aesthetic.

The collection opened with a succession of all white ensembles. A profusion of uncluttered lines starred on a high neck, cap sleeve shell top, whimsical full skirt, relaxed cashmere knit, tailored 3/4 trousers, flirtatious tea party dress complete with Peter Pan collar and skinny toffee leather belt with floral motif detail.

Dainty daffodils were emblazoned on a high waisted, above the knee voluminous skirt. The skirt was twinned to the classic white poplin shirt finalised with bourgeois French cuffs. Supermodel Candice Swanepoel modelled a sassy, effervescent, sailor inspired navy bustier complete with eyelet detail, leather butterscotch straps with white stitching. The leather straps encompassed her bare torso. The look was finalised with a micro mini dancer skirt and neutral macrame clutch. 

Demure hemlines were evident on a full navy skirt complete with bold geranium print scattered throughout. The skirt was paired to a matching shell top. A trend brimming with prestige and finesse that appears to be here to stay. Karmen Pedaru modelled a utilitarian anorak in the punchy shade of canary yellow. Kors' love and appreciation of tailored sportswear was apparent on this garment. The anorak offered minimalism in a chic, magnetic arabesque.

A tulle, transparent dancer skirt was highlighted by delicate geraniums. A botanical delight brimming of impeccable glamour sure to entice New York's society ladies. The time honoured sky blue shirt was married to the skirt an attributes included elongated sleeves grazing Ondria Hardin's knuckles. Kors' latest swimwear offering consisted of a floral print, canary yellow and apple green, ruched high waisted pant, twinned to a triangle bikini with matching shrunken, two button blazer complete with elbow length sleeve.

Plaid in neat, ladylike proportions played an integral role in the collection accentuating a boatneck mocha and white taffeta sundress complete with obi sash waist belt, tailored Capri pants, voluminous wraparound midi length shirtmaker dress and an insouciant button down shirt which was married to a calf grazing black wool gabardine skirt with thigh high split.

Gingham made an appearance on a breezy summer skirt which was coupled to a ribbed, off the shoulder, cropped ebony knit. A coffee plaited leather belt and crossbody shoulder bag accessorised the look. The collection closed with a series of monochromatic looks including a silk mikado skirt which lent graceful movement to every stride Caroline Trentini made and a structured deep v-neck plunge, cap sleeve midi dress, stylish decadence in modern proportions.

By Courtney Jones.

 

Versus Versace

Versus Versace

Legendary designer Donatella Versace teamed up with Anthony Vaccarello for the latest Versace Versus installment. The dynamic duo were a match made in heaven with the winning combination of Vaccarello's intoxicating, unashamedly bold designs twinned to the queen of amplified glam, Donatella Versace.

The collection opened with current fashion fave Anna Ewers modelling a lackadaisical strapless black body con dress teamed to a sleek, subtle peak shoulder overcoat, worn slung over the shoulders, falling mid thigh.Triple gold Medusa head  buttons graced the left lapel. Opaque stocking socks were paired to the classic ankle strap high heeled sandal. Gold accents lent ostentation to the mix.

A succession of black ensembles continued to star on the runway and included an elongated tuxedo jacket oozing of energised cool paired to a gold breastplate, a-line miniskirt, Balmain-esque power shoulder structured blazer dress worn plunging to the navel drawn in with the staple boxing belt. Eighties connotations reigned supreme. Overalls were updated in sensual, suggestive proportions. A sizzling leg baring shirtmaker maxi featured in a billowy fabric which revealed copious amounts of flesh with every stride the model made. A Grecian goddess inspired halter number came complete with plunging neckline, cinched waist and gold button detail. Libidinous thigh high splits were very Vaccarello. Seductive charm is embedded into his design DNA.

The infamous safety pin dress donned by Liz Hurley in 1994 was reconfigured and details included one shoulder, asymmetrical neckline, micro mini proportions and gold rivets held together by elasticised sutures. A liberated silhouette for those who dare to go commando.

A burnished gold leather high waisted miniskirt punctuated a simplistic sheer ruched cami. The iridescent gold leather continued to be a hallmark feature on a masculine, streamlined blazer with double button closure and welt pockets.

A monochromatic scarf print was emblazoned on streamlined, hip hugging trousers, step hem miniskirt, boxy college bomber jackets, cropped midriff baring blouse and a mesmeric wraparound dress. Grecian key motifs flourished on rebellious bandage mini dresses, transparent camis, halter plunge monokini and a textural leather miniskirt.

Aerated leather tanks added sporting luxe to a stretch leather mini whilst the staple denim shirt in charcoal was transmogrified with a punctuated leather bodice. 

Anja Rubik closed the show in an ebony, asymmetrical mini dress, waist attenuated by a waxy leather belt. Perforated leather panelling featured on the right side of the waist and cascaded mid thigh to reveal a fish tail floor grazing panel placing a modernistic edge to the garment.

By Courtney Jones.

LOVER

LOVER S/S 14

Supremely skilled design duo Susien Chong and Nic Briand of Australian label LOVER produced yet another covet worthy collection titled 'Zodiac' for their S/S 2014 line. Ethereal lace, a LOVER hallmark feature continued to dominate and starred on a plethora of garments including pencil skirts, tapered trousers, camis and LOVER'S signature lace dresses adored by fashionistas globally.

The collection opened with a sweet yet sensual midriff baring crop in delicate ivory lace. The crop top was married to a matching high waisted midi length skirt. Vertiginous black lace court shoes completed the look. For those seeking a more modest approach, the sculptural 'Hero Wrap Jacket' with belted waist detail and sharp shoulder is a bourgeois transeasonal piece transcending from day to evening ever so effortlessly. 

Leather continues to play an integral role in the S/S collections and LOVER'S 'Virgo' short sleeve dress oozed of tailored chic. Features included a butter soft waxy finish, crew neck and curved flounce detail cascading from the torso falling mid thigh.

Softened peach and a blue dove grey floral starred on a cocoon, sloping shouldered blouson scuba sweat. Adding a dose of sporting luxe to the mix were pleated leather shorts.

For cocktail hour a sumptuous cheongsam style metallic silver midi dress in floral lace was a captivating creation with impeccable glamour reigning supreme. Quintessential racewear or cocktail attire.

A midnight cutaway halter dress in duchesse stain brimmed of sass and sophistication. The scalloped mini length hem revealed  whimsical pleated lace grazing the top of the knee cap. A pencil skirt version was recently worn by ubermodel Rosie Hungtington-Whiteley at ModelCo's product launch.

A scarlet, high neck, cap sleeve sheer lace sheath featured high-low hem paired with a nude plunging slip underneath. An alluring number sure to light up any room.

Hardened femininity came in the form of the attitude bearing 'Warrior Leather Pant'. High waisted with volume throughout the hip area leading to a streamlined tapered cuffed ankle. The pants were teamed to an enticing, black lace cropped crossover top, scalloped lace edges added sweetness to the fearless fashion forward look. The 'Vee Vee Splice Top' also doubles as an ensemble when paired to the 'Vee Vee Splice Dress' as worn by Miranda Kerr. The dress additionally features in the shade of cornflower blue.

Grecian Goddess connotations were evident on a v-neck dandelion emblazoned dress. Bound strips acted as a waist cincher throughout the mid torso area. Diaphanous cascading side high-low hem added playfulness to the Pre-Raphaelite-esque garment.

Lover is available at its flagship boutiques located at The Strand Arcade and Westfield Bondi Junction. Selected garments are available online at www.loverthelabel.com.

By Courtney Jones.

Manning Cartell S/S 14/15

Manning Cartell S/S 14/15

Manning Cartell's 'Marigold' S/S 14/15 collection was a culmination of deftly draped silhouettes twinned with hardened femininity. Punchy contours enveloped the model's lithe physique. Textural prints in eye catching shades oozed with avant garde qualities.

The collection opened with a phosphorescent muted lilac 'Frostings Cross Over Dress' in Italian lurex organza. The dress featured flounce flip skirt complete with centre waist triangle cut-out and structured bodice with asymmetrical neckline. The dress was married to a matching lilac boxy jacket with white collar and cuffs, gargantuan bust pockets and exposed off centre zip.

Polished perfection came in the form of the 'Wallflowers Column Dress'. A saccharine cotton candy pencil skirt fell below the knee and starred a delicate sweet pea print. The v-neck cami style bodice complete with dainty rouleau straps featured in ebony, colour blocking still playing an integral role, unmistakably very Manning Cartell.

A high voltage raspberry patent finish bralet was a compelling addition. The body baring crop was twinned to a sleek, high waisted pencil skirt with angled dart detail at the side torso. The skirt featured a grey marle centre panel on the back adding finesse to the garment. Sculptural arabesques dominated on a burnt mandarin boxy, apron style crop complete with oversized armholes and minimalistic white trimmings. A full circle skirt in ecru accompanied the 'Frostings' top. This graceful skirt oozed of old Hollywood glamour with a concoction of grandeur thrown into the mix. 

Hardened femininity with conceptual Art Deco references highlighted the 'Fractured Roses Dress'. A racer front, waxed leather bodice adjoined to a midi length pencil skirt featuring colossal sherbet and tangerine blossoms and graphic pinstripe detail. Side torso cut-outs added sensuality. 

A bold, exotic, intarsia zebra print starred on a cropped 3/4 sleeve knit. The fine knit was teamed to an asymmetric front wrap skirt falling mid calf. The wrap opening revealed a short skirt underneath. Decadence with a dash of provocativeness best describes this look.

A caged, floral Harlequin print graced a body skimming strapless dress. The classic silhouette of the dress was updated with modernistic print and torso cut-outs, impeccably glamorous for the fashion forward femme fatale.

Summer suiting brimmed with architectural lines. A monochromatic ink jacket with drop shoulder and tapered sleeve was worn nonchalantly over the shoulders of a stark, crisp white shirt complete with concealed placket and finalised with a bourgeois 'Neo Couture Skort'. Details included curved hem and welt pockets. Athleticism references were prevalent. Sporting luxe continues to be a hallmark feature in designer collections throughout adding a certain robustness to feminine silhouettes.

Manning Cartell's 'Marigold' collection is available at their Paddington boutique, located at 110 Oxford Street. Myer and David Jones, Bondi Junction also stock selected garments from the Manning Cartell line.

By Courtney Jones.

Shona Joy Spring 2014

Shona Joy Spring 2014

Sydney based designer Shona Joy's latest installment was a culmination of modern contemporary garments in abstract expressionistic prints. Fractured blossoms channelling artist Georgia O'Keefe were prevalent throughout. Saturated hues in elongated silhouettes offered striking arabesques.

The collection commenced with the 'Gallery Bustier Midi Dress'. Features included a v-spliced neckline, exposed gold back zip and panelled polyester floral print in shades of midnight, grape and clouded dove grey. This multi hued print continued on a succession of garments including a cutaway crossover body con dress, shift dress replete with ebony mesh inserts, racer font crop top and matching high waisted pencil skirt.

Bold turquoise, white, black and peach sorbet shades flourished on a racer mini shift dress with a dose of athleticism thrown into the mix. The print continued to star and amplify a sweetheart bustier cleverly draped mini dress, a maxi dress complete with asymmetrical hemline and gathered waist creating an interplay of draping. A more modest option for those not wishing to sport micro proportions this spring. For the lover of separates, a trend set to explode this summer, the boxy tee and relaxed mini short is a great option sure to satisfy the artist within with a strong penchant for all things Prada.

Colour blocking played an integral role in the collection and was evident on a bright tangerine, white and black off the shoulder, body con dress complete with shoe string straps, cut-out triangle detail at the side torso and centre front. The polyester, viscose and elastane blend was a winning combination, fashion forward and practically minded. Cotton polyester rayon lace in the shade of black frequented a mesh spliced midi dress. The transparent panels added a sensual edge to the demure silhouette. The fabric also dominated on a bustier jumpsuit and for the fashion fearless- culottes.

Leopard devotees will rejoice at the snow leopard 'Impressionist Racer Mini Shift Dress'. Updated with fresh spearmint and white panelled hem. Kimono fans will covet the poetic 'Mini Robe Dress'. Fluidity and romanticism reign supreme with billowy sleeves adding an oriental twist.

1. Impressionist Mini Robe Dress

2. Obscura Wrap Mini Dress

3. Graphite Off The Shoulder Bodycon Dress

4.Gallery Fitted Crop Top / Gallery Pencil Skirt

5. Palette Relaxed Tee / Palette Mini Short

6.Romanticist Spliced Tee / Romanticist Culottes

7. The Minimalist Bustier Crossover maxi

8. Romanticist Mesh Spliced Midi Dress

Shona Joy's Spring 2014 collection is available online at www.shonajoy.com.au and at David Jones, Bondi Junction.

By Courtney Jones.

White Suede S/S 14/15

White Suede S/S 14/15

Designer Jacqui Demkiw of Australian fashion label White Suede produced a sleek, minimalistic collection titled 'Architectural Wanderlust'. Sculptural silhouettes and modern multifaceted, over exposed photography prints starred on an array of garments, creating optical illusions which wouldn't look out of place in a Magic Eye art book.

The collection opened with a shrunken, printed bodice in shades of dark rose, ebony, white and teal. The bodice was paired to a high waisted, body con pencil skirt, with centre split detail. Feminine allure reigned supreme on an effervescent, ivory blouse which featured lace torso panelling and delicate short sleeve detail. A scoop back added sensuality to the mix.

The elixir of youth was prevalent on an ensemble that consisted of waxed, leather flip short in relaxed micro proportions and digi print sculptural bustier. Sporting references crept in on a reptilian snake print neoprene crop top in shades of navy and Aegean blue. The crop was married to a matching high waisted tulip skirt , a bourgeois addition. Vibrant shades of azure were evident on a cut-out shoulder dress which featured spliced torso and decolletage in an electric landscape print complete with jolts of luminous white emblazoned throughout. 

Saccharine bubblegum pink punctuated several garments including a  deep v fold dress, cleverly draped tulip dress with captivating back design and a scuba inspired, racer front scoop neck dress complete with white zipper.

Monochrome arabesques which are a big trend this spring/ summer dominated the collection and starred on garments including a peplum bustier, architectural bodice, curved hem pencil skirt, leather cami and charming lace blazer. 

A muted rose, Aztec inspired print highlighted a thigh grazing mini dress with sheer fabric strips swathing the model's torso. The print was also a hallmark feature on a cropped bustier, tulip skirt, strapless dress and silk tracksuit bottom.

Sumptuous racewear oozed of grandeur. Standouts included a cut-away knee length lace dress with subtle peplum detail and a strapless version that comprised of angular, panelled opaque and lace bodice with asymmetrical lace tail finalised with stark black and white above the knee a-line skirt.

Tailored finesse flourished throughout. Think rigorously, defined silhouettes exuding consummate class.

White Suede's flagship store is located at 116 Oxford St, Paddington, 2021. Selected garments are available at Myer's Sydney City store. The entire collection is available online at www.whitesuede.com .

By Courtney Jones.

Ginger and Smart S/S 14/15

Ginger and Smart 'DUALISM' S/S 14/15

Adept design duo Genevieve and Alexandra Smart of Australian label Ginger and Smart produced an irrefutably modern S/S 14/15 collection aptly titled 'DUALISM'. The collection delved into the realms of double vision and duality with the duo drawing inspiration from the art form of double exposure photography. 

The collection opened with an azure, teal and midnight cap sleeve, midi length dress featuring undulating reptilian fabric in a fluid silhouette. The exotic reptilian print also starred on a cropped boxy blouse with perforated sleeves, knee length elongated body con number, relaxed shirt dress and a sleek pencil skirt with plunging centre split in rose gold. Wardrobe staples included dainty, neutral, multi layered camisoles with industrial zip detail toughening up the arabesque.

A minimalistic, silk jacquard, pantsuit in ivory offered structure and texture. The protracted jacket oozed of masculinity. The streamlined trousers fell mid calf. The silk jacquard was reconfigured into a sassy, fashion forward jumpsuit. Clever waist drapery ensued a sleek silhouette with a dose of playfulness thrown into the mix.

Graphic ombre lace was a standout on a reptilian tiled, funnel neck, three quarter sleeved, midi dress in shades of ice silver and gunmetal. Sumptuous cocktail attire came in the form of the 'Broken Beauty' strapless dress. A feminine, sculpted dress complete with trompe loeil panelling and sensual centre split adding a provocative edge.

A dramatic floral print was present on a boatneck, waisted, knee length dress which embodied dark glamour with a hint of romanticism. A racer front dress, drop waist midi skirt and relaxed blouse also featured in the floral print. Bold graphic candy stripes in peony pink and turquoise were prevalent on a bustier, high waisted pencil skirt and shift dress. A blush, quilted, cropped bomber jacket brimmed with joie de vivre. A sweetheart bustier complemented the jacket and the look was complete when teamed to high waisted shorts in relaxed proportions.

Ginger and Smart's 'DUALISM' collection is available at boutiques and selected David Jones stores nationally. You may also purchase the collection online at www.gingerandsmart.com

By Courtney Jones.