SAINT LAURENT FALL 2016

SAINT LAURENT FALL 2016

Well it's official, Hedi Slimane's Fall 2016 collection was his final at the helm of the luxury Parisian house. His highly anticipated departure led to the newly appointed, Creative Director Anthony Vaccarello, famed for his high voltage, sexed up, body con garments with a dose of rock n roll.

Slimane's climactic collection comprised of 80s powerhouse connotations, think voluminous shoulders teamed with narrow waists all finalised with sheer black stockings.

Models proceeded to glide down a staircase of an ostentatious 18th century house located on the Rue de 1'Universite.

Porcelain, matte skin, ruby glossed lips and smokey eye makeup was teamed to a pewter, iridescent, tiled, turtleneck mini dress. A patent, wide, waist cincher drew in the waist. An opulent, ebony, fur coat with oversized shoulders fell to the mid thigh. Fierce, pointy toe reptilian courts concluded the lavish ensemble.

Exaggerated shoulders ignited a burnished gold mini dress. Details included square neckline, undulating gold and silver embellishment and a python, boxing belt attenuated the waist, haute couture precision dominating.

A kaleidoscope of colour highlighted an asymmetrical, hand beaded dress. Shades of cobalt, aquamarine, emerald, fire and persimmon punctuated the saucy number. A gargantuan triangular shoulder dominated the silhouette commanding to be donned by a modern day rock goddess. Slicked back hair, kohl rimmed eyes and diamante clip on earrings concluded the high octane garment.

An onyx, plunging decolletage, sequin spangled, mini dress featured colossal sized wing shoulders complete with vermilion patent belt, gold ring choker and complementary buzz cut. Metallic fuchsia lacquered pumps were the footwear of choice.

A sweetheart, gold lame mini prom dress featured a drop waist and full bubble skirt. A monochromatic leather moto jacket featured black spray paint graffiti motif throughout. A collarless, sumptuous leather, bouffant sleeved bomber jacket was punctuated with gold eyelets. A sequin, leather and polka dot strapless mini was teamed underneath. For the flamboyant and outrageous- a masculine leather biker jacket encrusted with silver hearts. A kitsch addition, married to a sapphire sequin bustier, gold snakeskin belt and highwaisted, tiered, polka dot mullet skirt, cascading to the mid calf.

Decadent, grandiose, plush fox furs made an appearance on the runway. An eye catching electric blue fur coat with amplified  shoulders was an absolute standout.

A shrunken Breton stripe turtleneck micro mini dress in coruscating sequins was married to the coat resulting in an ensemble steeped in sheer grandeur. The collection closed with a cherry red fox fur cape coat in the shape of a mammoth love heart. A sweetheart, raven liquid, ruched mini dress was paired to the avant garde coat. Minimalistic gold cuffs adorned wrists. The arabesque oozed of excess. Perfect for the rock n roll chanteuse with a penchant for modern contemporary silhouettes.

By Courtney Jones.      

SAINT LAURENT PRE FALL 2016

SAINT LAURENT 

PRE FALL 2016

French designer, Hedi Slimane of Saint Laurent held his Pre Fall 2016 collection at the iconic Palladium Concert Hall located on Sunset Boulevard, California. Seventies, rock n roll swagger ruled the runway with models transmogrified into bona fide rockstars.

A chevron, leopard fur, midi coat was an absolute standout, paired to a bold tomato red, pussy bow blouse adorned with gold, glitter polka dots. Leather culottes in relaxed proportions were teamed to an ultra wide, black leather belt with gargantuan gold, ribbed metal buckle. Under the knee, almond toe, snakeskin boots added a sleek edge.

An indigo and sky paisley midi dress featured a high Victoriana collar, bib insert and pleating which fell under the bust. A sumptuous, snow leopard, fur gilet accompanied the dress. Velvet boots were encrusted with cascading, diamante flowers adding a regal touch to the bohemian ensemble.

Staz Lindes ignited the runway in an electrifying, lustrous, bronze, funnel neck midi dress. Bishop sleeves and an a-line silhouette brimmed with seventies style connotations, ideal for an uber cool songbird. A reptilian, boxing belt complete with tortoiseshell ring buckle attenuated the waist. Dramatic, burnished gold glitter eyeshadow was for the flamboyant.

A deep, plunging, peasant folklore maxi starred a scintillating, peacock print and sequin embellishment. A handkerchief hemline and billowy sleeves added poetic insouciance. The trusty, classic, skinny silk scarf was knotted nonchalantly on the side of the neck. 

A plush, panelled fur coat in shades of alabaster, ebony and flecked terracotta starred in an amplified arabesque. A coruscating, silver, beaded, turtleneck was married to leather, patchwork, culottes and gold, python, leather boots, insanely hip for those with a rebellious streak. 

A scarlet, velvet midi dress complete with black tulle, jesters collar and tulle, tiered lace cuffs evoked an enchanted, fairytale costume. A monochromatic, black sequin version featured a delicate, white lace collar, oozing with fragility.

Intricate, beaded, craftsmanship was on display on a dapper, decadent, turtleneck midi dress. Undulating fauna in coral and cornflower blue were punctuated by the ice silver, column beading. Peak, structured shoulders with flared sleeves were finalised with characterful ostrich feather cuffs resembling cheer squad pom poms.   

Start honing your music skills in order to sport this serious, rock n roll, stage get up!

By Courtney Jones.  

 

SAINT LAURENT SPRING 2016

SAINT LAURENT SPRING 2016

Designer Hedi Slimane of cult label Saint Laurent produced a Spring 2016 collection replete with 90s grunge elements. Vintage inspired finds brimming with rock n roll bohemia were the hallmark features of the deconstructed glam collection.

Model Steffi Soede opened the show in a liquid mercury hued slip dress. The body baring number featured a scintillating, plunging decolletage and provocative thigh split. A jewelled tiara sat low on the forehead and screamed of rock rebellion. Tomato red, patent stilettos featured a spindly heel, thin ankle strap and a cluster of fine red leather strips across the toes.

A fox fur, long line gilet starred in shades of vanilla, fudge and chocolate. A barely there, sheer slip dress with ruffled, scoop neckline accompanied the vest and featured a bead encrusted floral pattern. Black briefs were teamed underneath for modesty. Waxed ebony wellies completed the look. Lingerie as outerwear continued to be very much in attendance and frequented a gossamer, scalloped lace, slip dress. Dark glamour reigned supreme with raven floral applique gracing the gothic slip. A white, leather, shrunken moto jacket brimmed with "Don't mess with me!" attitude. A fearless combination evoking a strong rocker mood.

A bold display of exhibitionism dominated on a rouleau strap, liberated mesh mini. The transparent, suggestive dress was paired to jewel embellished briefs and a feather chubby. A daring combination bursting with the elixir of youth. Saint Laurent muse, Grace Hartzel took to the runway in an oversized, relaxed camo print jacket. The jacket was twinned to a deep decolletage, scintillating gold mini dress. A bejewelled tiara highlighted Hartzel's cascading auburn locks. A Glastonbury worthy outfit for music revellers aplenty.

British model Sam Rollinson modelled a kitsch, exotic, lion emblazoned bomber jacket in the shade of storm blue. A fishnet body con slip was layered to a v-neck sparkling sequin dress. Fine gold and silver chains adorned the neck and military green Wellingtons concluded the look.

A floaty, feminine, floral maxi starred in peaches and cream. Puff sleeves, keyhole and drawstring tie added a poetic edge. A matte paillette gold cardigan was teamed to the dress and worn off the shoulder for a nonchalant approach.

A shimmering, bias cut, silver slip dress ignited the runway and was paired to a textural shag overcoat in a kaleidoscope of colour.

Anarchy ruled on a neo-romantic evening dress comprising of silk chiffon and embroidered flowers in the dark gothic glam shade of raven. Ruching swathed the torso and a thigh split added the va va voom factor. A black and white, monochromatic, plumage flecked chubby added volume to the sensual number.

The collection closed with a series of silk charmeuse eveningwear looks in black and golden alabaster. Styles included bias cut, floor sweeping gowns with plunging necklines and delicate rouleau straps; after dark elegance with sexy silhouettes throughout.

A collection rich in youth culture, an attainable look for those with a penchant for all things eclectic and a spare past time of trawling through vintage stores and market stalls for that highly elusive fashion find. Think a heady mix of petticoat dresses married to your favourite faux fur chubby.

By Courtney Jones.

Saint Laurent Fall 2015

Saint Laurent Fall 2015

Masterful designer Hedi Slimane of Saint Laurent produced a Fall 2015 collection radiating in upper crust Parisian rock chic. Models transformed into rock renegades storming the runway with swagger. This season Slimane dished out plenty of flesh baring numbers. The hallmark Le Smoking tuxedo was updated and featured twice on the runway in sleek streamlined proportions. Think mannish tailoring, shrunken to add a feminine edge. Braces and a narrow glitter tie completed the look.

Lili Sumner modelled a leather, ruched asymmetrical body con mini dress. A deep decolletage and provocative thigh split added fetishism connotations. Staple black, pointy toe ankle boots concluded the look.

Hedi Slimane muse, Grace Hartzel modelled  a stretch fishnet tee which was paired to a crinkled, patchwork reptilian a-line leather mini, oversized ebony and silver shag coat and a studded leather collar for the rebellious rock star.

A sunray pleat, fifties style prom dress starred in gold leopard. A sweetheart neckline added innocence. The waist was attenuated by a skinny leather belt. A vermilion, burgundy and raven fur chubby worked surprisingly well against the leopard print. A diamante encrusted broach accessorised the jacket. The prom dress was layered to a fishnet body stocking.

Seductive eveningwear came in the form of a sequined, embellished lace mini dress. A scalloped hem lent a flirtatious edge, whilst dainty beaded strands were suspended from shoulders to create a cap sleeve, tantalizing craftsmanship at its best. The look was toughened up with a gargantuan bike chain choker which added copious amounts of amplified attitude.

A Balmain inspired, wild zebra print, plunge asymmetrical mini dress dazzled in lustrous sequins. The monochromatic number featured long sleeves and centre twist torso detail.

A tulle tutu skirt was twinned to a gossamer lace blouse worn with delicate black bralet. A multi row crystal choker added a dose of glamour. The signature Saint Laurent motorcycle jacket hardened the silhouette. Trashed, ripped and laddered stockings added a devil may care attitude. A tulle, concertina neckline dominated on a strapless mini dress. Electrifying panels of studs, gold beading, polka dots, leather and sequins banded together by tough industrial asymmetrical zippers encompassed the torso as the model foxily strutted down the catwalk. 

Admirably wearable mentions include an azure leopard fur pea coat, leather skinny trousers, staple silk black shirt and an ivory ruched mini dress complete with leather and chain waist cincher and cascading fishtail.

By Courtney Jones.

Saint Laurent Fall 2014

Saint Laurent Fall 2014

Designer Hedi Slimane of Saint Laurent produced a fall 2014 collection rich in sixties, English rock references. Free spirited, poetic gypsies ruled the runway. Creative muses played a driving force in the collection. The show commenced with model grace Hartzel emerging on the runway wearing a look that comprised of scintillating silver and black leopard print, v-neck mini dress, accessorised with a slimline armour belt, opaque black stockings and a monochromatic spotted tweed overcoat. Footwear consisted of sleek, under the knee, patent boots with mid block heel.

A red tartan, a-line mini was worn tucked into pristine, crisp white shirting, accessorised with an oversized satin bow. A boiled wool double breasted coat completed the look. Make-up was Twiggy inspired, think false eyelashes teamed with lashings of mascara and thick winged liquid liner oozing with sixties mod squad references. 

A Peter Pan collar featured on an ebony, velvet, mini, baby doll dress. Jewel encrusted, silver, decorative buttons added a touch of ostentation. Shrunken tweed suiting featured on a sharp shoulder, cropped, single breasted jacket with 3/4 sleeves. A high waisted a-line mini skirt was paired to the classic, staple white shirt. Bronze foil brocade starred on a jade turtleneck mini dress worn layered to a heavenly white fur coat. The dress was attenuated by a black lame bow belt. Narrow, almond toe glitter boots in the shade of bubblegum pink were an addition for the young at heart.

A navy plaid cape coat was twinned to a funnel neck, scarlet, leopard mini dress featuring centre front seam and iridescent molten sleeves finalised the look. This in turn made for a haphazardous combination. The covetable black, statement making fedora was back again this season yet the proportions were downsized dramatically from Saint Laurent's previous S/S 2013 RTW collection.

Gold stencilled guns cascaded over a black funnel mini dress. A tough luxe, leather, shrunken jacket with heavy duty hardware including silver studs screamed rock n roll. Gargantuan gold discs dangled precariously from Harleth Kuusik's lobes. A calf hair noir coat with leather placket and trimmings was married to a shimmering mod squad mini dress. A slimline boot with studded panel embellishment offered a chic take on luxury grunge.

Polka dots made an appearance and were evident on a transparent blouse paired to high waisted, butterscotch mini skirt and cropped androgynous leather jacket in a boxy arabesque. Lustrous, gold glitter, Mary Janes wouldn't look out of place on Dorothy from The Wizard Of Oz. The time honoured safari dress was updated in liquid gold leather, worn belted and of body con style. Toffee, suede, under the knee desert boots with opaque stockings completed the look.

The bohemian, artists muse appeared in a kaleidoscope of fur strewn together to form a standout cape coat. For the enigmatic, a black fedora was slung low over the eyes. A fringed leather mini skirt with silver rivet hardware was teamed to a lame blouse and glistening silver glitter boots oozing of discotheque attire.

An alluring ruby red, lame, Marilyn Monroe inspired, deep plunge halter dress was modernized with skater mini dress proportions.

This collection offered countless style combinations. Classic shapes were reworked to put an edgy spin on garments.

By Courtney Jones.

Saint Laurent Spring / Summer 2014

Saint Laurent Spring / Summer 2014

Uber cool designer Hedi Slimane's current spring/summer 2014 collection generated undertones of grunge, rebellion, androgyny, with a devil care attitude and a heady mix of raw sex appeal. A highly wearable collection,with desirable, edgy pieces beckoning to be worn by rock n roll femme fatales.

Edie Campbell opened the show in a sharp, padded shoulder, plunge to the navel, crystal encrusted mini dress channelling galatic references. The dress seemed to have drawn inspiration from the house of Balmain or the more affordable Brian Lichtenberg.

A lady bug red, lip motif was plastered throughout, a peak shoulder, deftly draped wrap dress reminiscent of Diane Von Furstenburg. A tiered, heavy duty bike chain collar lent a punk edge.

A boxy, dove grey houndstooth tuxedo jacket in mannish proportions was paired with a matching subtle peg leg, tailored trouser. Accessories comprised of a skinny leather tie, skinny belt, black court shoe with practical mid heel and ornamental, crystal, ear climber.

A molten metal and black candy striped blazer with black leather lapel detail was twinned with coordinating mini skirt pared back with a classic white shirt, creating a balance of embellishment versus minimalism.

Lanvin connotations were evident on a one shoulder, cocktail prom mini dress with a strong nod to the 80s era. An iridescent sheen was prevalent on the cleverly draped dress featuring asymmetrical hemline and a prodigious bow sleeve which acted as a strong focal point.

An embossed undulating high waisted leather skirt was married to a cropped, boxy blazer with sateen lapels. A scoop neck mesh tank accompanied the look. Reptilian platform pumps with metal, snake, toe cap detail, concluded the look.

Military references crept in on a bouffant sleeved, khaki, cropped, military jacket. A transparent black shirt with opaque placket and collar was worn underneath. A leather, a-line mini skirt was followed by pearlescent, ribbed, glitter ankle socks paired with ankle strap pump.

Debbie harry seemingly came alive on the runway in a bubblegum pink and black stretch sequin bandeau and molten leopard body con skirt. A grommet infested bow featured on a textured, ebony, leather pump.

A leather biker jacket with oversized, ponyskin, zebra lapel was softened by a whimsical, gossamer effect skirt overlay flowing diaphanously as Linn Arvidsson strode down the runway. A lustrous, collarless cape jacket with split sleeve detail was teamed with a plunge neck, emerald green billowy mini dress with black mesh underlay.

Geometric associations played out on a graphic, optical illusion, monochromatic chiffon dress with puff sleeve and high-low side hemline worn with second skin leather leggings.

The show closed with a series of attention vying dresses. A striking effulgent sequin encrusted, vivid vermilion and black tiger boatneck mini evening dress served up serious attitude yet was sweetened by a black sequin, bow belt and futuristic silver kitten heel lace up ankle boot.

By Courtney Jones.

Saint Laurent Resort 2014

Saint Laurent Resort 2014

Highly regarded, industry heavyweight, Hedi Slimane showcased a collection rich in consummate class and attitude for Saint Laurent's Resort 2014 Collection. Piquancy and uncluttered lines dominated the collective.

Model Sasha Pivovarova starred in the series of liberated photographs oozing with rebellion. It was a major comeback debut for Pivovarova who has been out of the spotlight since the birth of her daughter Mia Isis in May 2012 to photographer Igor Vishnyakov. A industrial warehouse, concrete playground set the scene with the city skyline acting as a backdrop through the oversized panes of glass.

The opening look comprised of YSL's famed, unisex, Le Smoking tux, exploding with androgyny. The edgy jacket was slightly cropped and shrunken for rock star appeal, worn bare chested of course. Tailored trousers fell cleanly on the ankle to reveal sky high, teetering, stiletto pumps. A modern, minimalistic, ultra skinny leather belt and graphic cuff were the accessories of choice. Pivovarova's stance eluded confidence brooding within, the pure element of the YSL woman. I'm pictured top right embracing the Saint Laurent aesthetic.

Dishevelled, undone glamour accompanied the look replete with bed head, tousled tresses and smouldering, smoky, bedroom eyes.

An ebony, strapless, chiffon, gathered babydoll mini dress with empire line arabesque featured a double buckle waist cincher complete with grommet infested detail. A tuxedo bolero in sensual satin was paired with a sequined, boatneck, mini dress drawn in at the waist by a heavy duty chrome belt.

Red carpet worthy eveningwear came in the form of a strapless, sweetheart neck line, gathered, bustier gown featuring a high- low hem falling to the knee and trailing behind gracefully. Architecturally and sculpturally driven with romantic connotations this dress was brimming with Ralph Lauren characteristics.

Pure sex appeal reigned supreme on a python digi print, embellished, collarless jacket complete with black iridescent cuffs, inbuilt lapels and welt pockets. A structured peak shoulder lent a strong silhouette. A sheer blouse was worn underneath, unbuttoned to the navel. Unadulterated, rock n roll, bohemian, classicism. 

Robustness was evident on a chrome, boxing belt featuring hexagonal plates married with double layered ivory, Grecian style, asymmetrical dress rich in fluidity. A gladiatorial air was present.

Other standout garments included a pearl emblazoned, leather blazer married with paper bag, cuffed, leather shorts in more demure proportions.

Accessories consisted of a Hermes inspired Kelly bag featuring padlock detail. Show stopping chromatic, silver, platform stiletto pumps with zig zag detail were a dynamite annexation. A large, ivory, envelope clutch with shiny silver hardware and a miniature crocodile clutch in patent leather with chain shoulder strap and YSL initials as the centerpiece were chic must haves. Waiting list alert- apply now! A silver YSL logo cuff was a bourgeois accessory which will no doubt thrill the legion of dedicated YSL fashion followers devastated by Slimane's decision to change the original name of YSL to Saint Laurent.

Please feel free to view my blogs.

www.modeloffduty.blogspot.com and www.modestyling.blogspot.com

Book me for personal fashion styling consultations- courtney@modestyling.com.au

By Courtney Jones.

Saint Laurent Fall 2013

Saint Laurent Fall 2013

Supremely skilled designer Hedi Slimane  of Saint Laurent produced a thoroughly wearable collection this fall season. An interjection of grunge and rock influences flooded the runway.

Models emerged slovenly and dishevelled as grunge went into hyperdrive. On the other end of the spectrum, pristine, polished leather looks were seriously nefarious.

Hanne Gaby Odiele opened the show in a v-neck, metallic foil, fish tail, free flowing mini dress married with mohair, oversized plaid cardigan in mannish proportions. Sheer, polka dot hosiery and flat, buckled, moto biker boots finished the look. A dainty, delicate string of pearls was an ambiguous accessory choice.

A white, ruffled Peter Pan collar featured on a rose bud liberty print smock dress paired with clashing, cornflower blue cardigan emblazoned with considerably sized black stars. The shabby chic theme continued with lace up leather, cumbersome boots.

Australian model Julia Nobis modelled a leather, a-line, mini skirt, coasting hips, complete with double zippers off kilter. A waxed, leather, triangular bra was paired with a structured, knee length trench.

Masculinity and androgyny continued to creep in on multifarious garments including a YSL inspired Le smoking, oversized, pinstripe, black tuxedo jacket, slashed leather skinny trousers, muted plaid shirt dresses and a black molten peak shoulder jacket. Plenty on offer to appeal to the hip, young, indie musicians of today.

A more ostentatious addition came in the form of a flesh, cotton candy fur chubby combined with studded, high waisted knicker and floral pussy bow blouse tucked in for a look oozing of finesse and sophistication with an edge.

Flashes of tawdry and vulgarity were found on scarlet, tartan babydoll dresses, oversized cable knit metallic thread sweater dresses and lumberjack cardigans.

A fox fur cape coat consisting of an abundance of fox tails in shades of dove grey, white, ebony and toffee was teamed with a one shoulder, ruffled mini dress.

This collection is very accessible and easy to emulate. A newfangled approach to Marc Jacobs 90s grunge revival.

Australian designers to look to include Marcs and Fleur Wood for floral dresses, Shakuhachi and One Teaspoon for leather looks, Topshop knitwear, Dr Martens footwear and Wheels and Doll Baby for fur chubbies and embellished knickers.

Please feel free to view my fashion blogs.

www.modeloffduty.blogspot.com and www.modestyling.blogspot.com

By Courtney Jones.

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.