Saint Laurent Spring 2013

Saint Laurent Spring 2013

Yves Saint Laurent's, Stefano Pilati's successor, fashion virtuoso Hedi Slimane showcased a victorious display for his debut womenswear collection under the helm of the newly appointed Saint Laurent.

The name and logo change stirred up plenty of controversy among the fashion pack. All disputes aside Mr Slimane reminded everyone why he is a true pioneer of fashion.

Slimane delved deep into a dress up box resplendent of all things occult, gothic,Victorian, 70s safari, and bohemian.

Edie Campbell sashayed down the runway in a plunge suede, floor sweeping dress in rich toffee which laced down to the navel. Slimane obviously drew inspiration from the archives of the iconic Vogue Paris editorial featuring statuesque supermodel of the 60s, Verushka in a safari suit by YSL, complete with oversized wide brim hat.

Caped crusaders led the way and made a strong impact on the runway. Diaphanous, floor length capes in an array of materials including classic black felt and sheer chiffon leopard print, very signature YSL were in attendance.

Pussy bows played a starring role in the collection, supersized, poetic, with neo romanticism qualities that oozed of finesse. A profusion of blouses were teamed with this enticing accessory. Shades included biscuit, black and white with fabrics including decadent lace and mousseline.

A stylishly majestic gothic, black lace, tiered mullet dress with waist cincher belt was an enchanting addition. Plenty of delicate whimsy was on display.

A showstopping full length chubby fur coat complete with black and white zig zag pattern in oversized proportions was an absolute knockout. This coat would certainly have a place in the wardrobe of a bourgeois Russian woman, who has a strong penchant for fur. The look was finished off with a fire engine red shirt and black cigarette trousers.

Other garments on the runway included shrunken tux jackets which cut sleek silhouettes, plunge v neck metallic sweaters, Bermuda shorts, western style suede camel jacket with fringing detail on pockets and sleeves, palazzo pants, leather maxi skirts and crocheted kimonos.

Bewitching, low slung wide brimmed hats were a popular addition which emulated a free spirited 70s rock band groupie or the bohemian  qualities of love child Jade Jagger. Other accessories included enigmatic long black leather gloves and gold caged cuffs which engulfed models wrists. Long cord like necklaces featured large tassels which resembled curtain like embellishment. Intricate details were evident on T-bar stilettos which featured rivets on the inner side of the heel, a clever touch. A vertiginous platform court shoe complete with taupe toe cap was a chic, covet worthy item.

By Courtney Jones.