ROBERTO CAVALLI SPRING 2017

ROBERTO CAVALLI SPRING 2017

Norwegian born designer, Peter Dundas delved deep into psychedelic bohemia for his latest S/S 2017 collection. Exotic, artisanal excursions to the 1970s decade proved popular once again for the retro, gypsy, aficionado. American Indian cultural references were fused to Scandinavian style elements, think Navajo blanket wraps teamed to wooden, soled clogs.

A riot of colour starred on a patchwork, billowing, tiered, floor grazing maxi dress. A scoop neck complete with empire waist featured on the ethereal design. Scintillating gold pailettes ignited the bust area. Patchwork floral combinations were highlighted in a kaleidoscope of colour including glistening gold, cherry, marshmallow, fuchsia, lemongrass, cobalt and magenta. Embellished sequin panelling adding an iridescent sheen. A matching bishop sleeve bolero was twinned to the opulent maxi. A statement, bejewelled, sapphire choker festooned the neck.

Languid, embroidered, burnt mandarin, silk, velvet flares brimmed of energised cool. Intricate handiwork was evident on a silver, floral embellishment which cascaded down the outer thigh. A hip hugging, sterling silver Navajo belt was slung low on the hips. A body baring, deep decolletage, lace up blouse complete with frayed chiffon trimmings was showcased in a  radiant electric blue, floral patchwork. Over extended, flared sleeves screamed of nonchalance. A reptilian, ebony, fringed leather waistcoat was layered to the navel gazing blouse. An ornate tiered choker with matching dream catcher earrings was the bijoux of choice ideal for a well versed globetrotter discovering ethnic finds at worldwide bazaars.

A velvet, cropped, cornflower blue, matador inspired jacket starred peak shoulders and a narrow silhouette. Black, decadent embroidery oozed with enchantment. A vintage, rock tee in the shade of grape was worn tucked into a tiered, patchwork, hippie, column skirt, gossamer airiness fused with flamenco connotations dominating the arabesque. A rock goddess, skinny scarf accented the neck resulting in a hap-hazardous combo for the free spirited, characterful woman. 

A plunging, eveningwear dress featured rouleau straps with cross decolletage detail. Lively, caged panelling in the shade of eggplant caressed model Faretta's curves effortlessly. Delicate craftsmanship imbued a defining quality. Undulating beadwork flourished on sheer panels in a colour palette consisting of peony pink, forest green, lemon curd, eggplant, cobalt and lavender.

Bold cabana stripes frequented the runway and were evident on a sleek, 7/8 side split trousers, lace up peasant blouse, lace up flares, waist coat and form fitting blazers.

A dandified, nomadic display with tenderness very much in attendance. Ostentation and impeccable glamour on the agenda.

By Courtney Jones.

GUCCI RESORT 17

GUCCI RESORT 2017

Italian designer Alessandro Michele held his latest resort offering at the ostentatious Westminster Abbey. When asked as to why the designer chose the aristocratic location Michele responded, "To dive in this gothic sea of inspiration! The punk, the Victorian, I can work all my life!"

A succession of haphazardous prints in a kaleidoscope of colour ignited the runway with retro connotations reigning supreme.

Poetic elements shone brightly on an electric purple, velvet, structured, bouffant sleeve mini dress. A delicate frothy lace bib in the shade of vermilion framed the shoulders and cascaded down the bodice of the dress. Chevron lace panelling  frequented the skirt and cuffs. A statement vanilla, floral centrepiece adorned the neck. Scalloped, patterned, black lace stockings, tough ankle boots bedecked with multiple straps and buckles screamed rebel biker chic. Sleek cat-eye sunglasses with hand painted gold floral detail featured on the frames.

Peasant folklore was evident on an emerald green, midi length, ponykskin, leopard coat. Plush lavender fur cuffs graced elbows while yellow and red slouch sleeves oozed of 90s grunge. A seafoam, opalescent, pleated midi skirt offered ladylike demure. Accessories comprised of cornflower blue, tiger emblazoned bowling bag complete with signature Gucci racing stripe strap. Cumbersome, almond toe leather loafers with ankle strap added a granny'esque' vibe to the eclectic ensemble. A glittery jade hat featured a centre flower crown in a vibrant coral. Oversized sunglasses complete with yellow lenses brimmed of 70s swagger.

Australian model Maddison Stubbington took to the runway in a canary yellow, romantic, velvet mini dress. A ribbed, ruffled bib in the shade of tomato and a turquoise bow flourished on the bodice. An elasticised waist resembling a garter drew in the waist. A cobalt, leather hobo featured scintillating, embellished ferns. Under the knee chevron socks in the shade of ebony were paired to round toe, reptilian high heeled sandals in neutral complete with 3 buckle closure which crept up the leg. Bronze, jewel encrusted, knuckle duster rings adorned fingers while an emerald floral brooch starred as a centrepiece to the turquoise, frayed bow.

British model Karen Elson modelled a floor sweeping vintage derived maxi dress which screamed polished, beatnik bohemian.  Striking, bold peacock print was plastered throughout which worked harmoniously against the eye catching tangerine shade of the dress. Details included 3/4 subtle bishop sleeve, grandpa collar, crochet tasselled motif keyhole, bouffant shoulders and a billowy skirt. Narrow cat-eye sunglasses highlighted cheekbones. Elongated, collarbone grazing, crochet earrings matched a voluminous crochet, crown headband. A leather cuff and bronze chain slave bracelet hardened the 70s inspired number.

A charming collection enriched in stylish majesty for the hippie at heart.

By Courtney Jones.

ROBERTO CAVALLI RESORT 2017

 

ROBERTO CAVALLI RESORT 2017

Creative Director Peter Dundas, of Roberto Cavalli produced an opulent Resort 17 collection steeped in floral bohemian. A tantalising, heady mix of florals entranced free flowing garments perfect for an ethnic sojourn abroad. The lookbook imagery was shot on location at a picturesque, Milanese palazzo with enchanted gardens offering plenty of mystical elements throughout.

An amethyst, lace up, long sleeve, form fitting maxi starred traditional, embroidered Mexican florals in shades of lavender, sky and raspberry which featured on the bodice and sleeves. A matching, tasselled skinny scarf festooned the neck. A gold trinket bracelet adorned the wrist while a punchy, magenta saddle bag in sumptuous suede concluded the look. Exotic animal prints fused with bold florals highlighted a slim tailored pantsuit of 7/8 length. Fuchsia, teal, sugilite and gold shades were splashed across the free spirited ensemble. Pewter and claret, platform, T-bar sandals oozed of seventies style connotations.

Innocence prevailed on a diaphanous, broderie anglaise, rouleau strap, triangle maxi dress. Embroidered, undulating serpents in the hue of sapphire graced the panels of the tiered, floor sweeping dress. A single strand, gold necklace was punctuated by various charms including a sun. A modern day rock goddess ignited the secluded garden in an embellished, vanilla waistcoat details including colourful embroidery offering artisanal qualities. The staple silk blouse was paired underneath, worn plunging to the navel. A floral, dainty, silk skinny scarf added a poetic edge. Narrow trousers featured floral applique craftsmanship in a kaleidoscope of colour.

A heavenly white, Chantilly lace mini dress exuded sheer femininity. Bouffant sleeves, collarless lace up neckline and flounce hem brimmed with playfulness. A brightly hued, braided waistcoat added a jolt of colour. Terracotta, suede under the knee boots were a boho luxe addition. A mocha, transparent, floral maxi with lace up keyhole silhouette offered the ultimate in festival chic. Chic, breezy and worn with sheer insouciance this summer staple will translate well into the working resort wardrobe.

Cavalli Cat, rockstar glam came in the form of a shrunken, cornflower blue pantsuit. A ruffled placket frequented the blouse adding tenderness to the statement making addition. Release your inner gypsy in a halterneck, lace up, crochet and chiffon maxi dress. Mustard, eggplant, tomato and mauve panels worked harmoniously together in geometric shapes. An elasticised waist flowed seamlessly into a psychedelic, billowy, maxi skirt, the colour palette comprising of chocolate, lavender, turquoise, cobalt, fairy floss and peony pink.

Chiffon from Latin America was emblazoned with embroidered harlequin motifs. Rippling wave like motions were accented in shades of emerald, chocolate, lemon, bubblegum and watermelon. A patchwork, oversized, fur chubby in vivid shades of the rainbow complemented the colourful maxi dress. A mahogany velvet, wide band choker and tasselled gold thread skinny scarf concluded the hippie inspired number, tousled tresses a must have.

A round neck, long sleeve, evening, floor grazing column dress in the shade of ivory featured intricate hand beading including pearl coloured sequins and a striking, plunging centre floral motif in the shade of orchid. For the summer globetrotter, an Ikat, sloping shouldered cocoon coat worn slouched for a relaxed fit. Denim shorts and a violet star spangled shirt brimmed of nonchalance. Under the knee, denim, platform boots were bedecked with flowers aplenty.

Peter Dundas declared "Life is already so difficult. There's no need for fashion to be too difficult as well."

A captivating display for the luxurious, beatnik, flower child.

By Courtney Jones. 

GUCCI FALL 2016

GUCCI FALL 2016

Designer Alessandro Michele produced a collection bursting with eighties, retro nostalgia. Peasant folklore teamed with opulent geek chic ruled the runway with a series of garments beckoning to be worn by a beatnik bohemian.

A floaty, feminine, asymmetrical, bouffant shouldered, billowy evening dress featured floral embroidery in shades of magenta, fuchsia and sage. Chocolate fur trimmings added a kitsch element to the decolletage. Diaphanous pencil pleats adorned a floor grazing, voluminous skirt which starred in a colour palette comprising of lemon meringue, mint, ballet pink, muted orange and strawberry.

A gold lurex, shrunken sweater, was punctuated by knitted peak shoulders in cornflower blue, navy and sky with parrot motifs emblazoned across the bust. An eye motif encased in flames added a pop art edge to the mix. Striped sequin cuffs, neckline and sweater band added the bling factor. An undulating, coruscating, sequin midi skirt featured sheer ebony backing which brimmed with gossamer airiness. Gucci's signature racing stripe decorated white socks. Peep toe tomato sandals complete with ankle straps were paired to the socks.

A high neck, sloping shouldered trench coat was ignited in a menagerie of exotic, reptilian skins. Patches of waxy snakeskin leather in shades of fairy floss, azure, royal blue, emerald and claret featured throughout. Decadent, chocolate brown fur cuffs screamed of grandeur. A forest green and scarlet canvas belt attenuated the waist with a gold centrepiece. Opaque raspberry tights were paired to zebra, round toe Mary Janes.Colossal sized olive reading glasses added a bookworm vibe to the ensemble.

Eastern suburbs local Julia Nobis took to the runway in a renaissance inspired, spiced pear full length gown. Details included flared, tiered, sleeves with diamante cuffs, high neck ebony fur collar, bejewelled necklace bib and a black velvet belt. Eighties derived black lace gloves were accessorised with gold knuckle duster rings. The dress was finalised with a romantic, fluid fishtail flounce which bounced frivolously with every stride Nobis made.

Other garments to frequent the runway included a rich, jacquard coat complete with karakul aqua collar, a Spanish ruffled cape coat in the shade of vermilion teamed to a vintage pussy bow tea party dress  and a scintillating candy stripe suit consisting of masculine tuxedo jacket and languid narrow trousers in shades of rose,silver and fuchsia.

Kooky librarian meets deluxe hippie with a series of bold shades, clashing prints with a dash of offbeat kilter.

By Courtney Jones.       

AUTUMN WARDROBE STAPLES

AUTUMN WARDROBE STAPLES

Clockwise from top left-

1)DIESEL Dress $300

CLARINS Lip Perfector $33

LINDA FARROW Round Sunglasses $790

CHLOE Jodie Bag $2280

AQUAZZURA Suede Boots $1345

CLARINS Eyebrow Pencil $34

ISA ARFEN Faux Fur Jacket $1302

DIOR Nail polish $35

CHANEL Hoop Earrings $1955

AMICI Fedora $36

REPOSSI Stacked Gold Ring $2949

2) MARISSA WEBB Military Jacket $650

YSL Nail polish $35

STARBUCKS Iced Coffee

YSL Camouflage Satchel $2938

LINDA FARROW Gold Aviators $1440

DAVID YURMAN Gold Bracelet $7160

LOUIS VUITTON Bag Charm $ 475

MICHAEL KORS Watch $296

SEED HERITAGE Leather Mini $270

CLARINS Lip Balm $33

CHANEL Eyeshadow Quad $98

YSL Mascara $42

AQUAZZURA Tulum Sandals $1095

3) RIVER ISLAND Suede Western Jacket $280

BOOHOO Embellished Clutch $46

DANIEL AVAKIAN Silk Neck Tie $85

DIPTYQUE Candle $100

TOO FACED Eye Palette $47

ALEXANDER WANG Tank $775

ANTIK BATIK Belt $85

ISABEL MARANT Earrings $185

TOO FACED Lipstick $27

FRAME DENIM Ripped Skinny Jeans $390

RAY BAN Round Sunglasses $220

ISABEL MARANT Suede Sandals $955

GUERLAIN Bronzer $69

ISABEL MARANT Beaded Bracelet $91

4) BALMAIN Sequined Dress $5570

3.1 PHILLIP LIM Aviators $250

TOM FORD Shoulder Bag $1870

REPOSSI Chrome Gold Ring $3065

TORY BURCH Watch $405

BALMAIN Leather Jacket POA

STUART WEITZMAN Thigh Boots $1530

GIVENCHY Foundation $66

GIVENCHY Bronzer Brush $64

TOM FORD Eau de Parfum $325

CHANEL Lipstick $48

BY COURTNEY JONES.

 

CHLOE FALL 2016

CHLOE FALL 2016

Designer Clare Waight Keller of Chloe produced a floaty, feminine collection brimming with eclectic pulchritude. Exotic travels abroad inspired by Anne- France Dautheville were on the agenda. Billowy fabrics, slick, buttersoft leather in relaxed proportions set the tone for the rich in bohemia design acumen.

Marleth Kuusik modelled a peanut fudge, leather safari jacket. Four oversized pockets frequented the torso and a leather belt attenuating the waist was knotted nonchalantly. Cropped, leather trousers featured teal and white racing stripe detail. Round toe, tan leather booties finalised the chic ensemble, bursting of downtown cool.

A chocolate, collarless, sloping shoulder, oversized fur coat was teamed to 3/4 leather pantaloons complete with knee patch and side lace up detail. An ivory brightly embroidered kaftan was paired underneath adding an artisanal edge. An alabaster silk scarf was wrapped several times around the neck and knotted insouciantly for a seventies vibe.

A midi length kaftan starred elongated sleeves and a plunging neckline. The free spirited garment was highlighted by hand embroidery and beading in shades of burnt mandarin, canary yellow, saffron and fuchsia. Black leather midi boots were a heavy addition to the breezy number. Perhaps function over fashion for muse Dautheville who rode a motorbike on her sojourn throughout Europe and the Middle East.

A barely there, silk chiffon, poetic blouse featured a cascading, ruffled bib which fell elegantly to the mid thigh. A long, loose, ebony skinny scarf adorned the neck. Leather trousers concluded the monochromatic ensemble.

Sam Rollinson modelled a peach sorbet, heavenly, diaphanous, full length dress. Deep decolletage, sheers shoulders and sleeves which flared into tiers of gossamer airiness oozed with femininity. Patchwork floral fabrics frequented the torso and skirt ruffles which flowed into a balayage of dusty pink and salmon.

For the ultimate in biker chic- leather overalls with sexy zip up closure. Loose, undone tresses and a burgundy scarf added plenty of renegade attitude.

A voluminous, alabaster, shearling coat was a cosy accession. A cream blouse was coupled underneath the coat and worn tucked into khaki, highwaisted, leather pantaloons of 3/4 length. Hippie, globetrotter connotations reigning supreme.

Frederikke Sofie modelled a standout, delicate, floaty, trapeze maxi dress. Details included gathered high neck and over extended sleeves. An explosive watercolour of blooms in hues of cobalt, mint, lime, peony pink and yellow erupted throughout the dress' entirety, billowing with every stride Sofie took on the runway.

A patchwork shag coat was the perfect addition for the ultimate bohemian la femme. Unruly collages of faux fur in a colour palette comprising of maroon, orange, turquoise, mocha and rose worked harmoniously together. A burgundy body skimming slip dress was paired underneath.

Grand, peasant folklore themes incorporated beautifully with luxurious garments dominating the runway from start to finish.

By Courtney Jones.

 

ALTUZARRA FALL 2016

ALTUZARRA FALL 2016

Paris born designer, Joseph Altuzarra delivered an eclectic collection for his New York Fall 2016 show. Gypset, globetrotters with a penchant for all things luxurious were on the agenda with tailored garments mixed with exotic, bohemian prints and fabrics very much in attendance.

An Ikat, monochromatic, structured blouse featured a raw, frayed, subtle v-neck, peak shoulders and a collage of multi diamond and zig zag patterns throughout. The artisanal blouse was worn tucked into a midnight, paisley, knee length skirt. Two provocative thigh splits oozed with sensuality and mystique. Under the knee, jacquard boots flourished with dainty, ebony flowers.

A black and white, oversized snood was paired to a cabernet, tasselled skirt. The crimson popped delightfully against a stark, white, body skimming pencil skirt with black accents. Industrial zippers featured on the skirt pockets adding a nonchalant edge. Ladylike pearls dangled freely from lobes. 

A beetroot, woven blouse inspired by antique Indian textiles was coupled to aubergine,drawstring, languid trousers complete with black velvet trimmings. An unlikely combination for the free spirited woman. Navy, almond toe, reptilian ankle boots were a striking accessory.

Dutch model Romy Schonberger, modelled an ivory knitted turtleneck complete with black, blanket stitching cascading down the centre. A floral, leather bomber jacket was adorned with large, black, leather pockets, delicate flora and a plush shearling collar was layered to the knit. A scarf print pencil skirt oozed with finesse and featured centre, button closure with a seductive split revealing plenty of thigh, baring flesh.

Rock n roll dominated on a ribbed, teal, slouch knit sweater enlivened by fuchsia, sky and ebony v shape fringing, very Isabel Marant. A slimline, jogging pant punctuated by teal stripes finalised the insouciant, athleisure number.

The collection closed with a succession of fluid, handkerchief hem maxi skirts and evening dresses emblazoned with silver, spangled sequins and soutache embroidery. Texan catwalk fave, Vanessa Moody modelled a standout, plunging, vermilion and burgundy full skirted maxi dress brimming with gypsy, ostentation. Adept artistry shone bright on the hand embellished garment, think black sequin rosettes, borders and undulating lace patterns in ice silver. Style cues derived from Indian saris, ethnicity reigning supreme.

By Courtney Jones.  

COACH FALL 2016

COACH FALL 2016

British born designer, Stuart Vevers of Coach, produced a charming Fall 2016 collection. Artisanal elements coupled with bohemian luxe, western, sporting and aviation connotations ultimately resulted in a street style ready collection for the quintessential Brit.

A series of voluminous, college bomber jackets opened the show with sloping shoulder detail, blouson sleeves, emblazoned with kitsch, iron on transfers. The jackets frequented in Crayola box bright shades including cobalt, cherry and mandarin. Floral, flounce mini dresses were teamed to the masculine bombers adding femininity to the mix. Mod squad burnished pewter and gold midi boots featured chunky, sculptural heel and bejewelled boot harness.

Military elements crept in on a utilitarian, toffee, canvas trench which came complete with turmeric and peach oversized fur collar. A ladylike blouse with pearl buttons was married underneath and worn tucked into a patchwork, a-line, butterscotch and raven mini skirt. Metallic, gunmetal grey, studded ankle boots were the footwear of choice, perfect for the rock renegade.

Vevers delved into the seventies decade delivering a salmon and coral, scalloped shirt dress adorned with embroidered flowers. A chocolate and snow white, oversized fur gilet accompanied the dress. An oxblood, leather, large size bowling bag featured grommet detail and brimmed of polished panache. Arm candy sure to be seen on it girls globally.

A plaid, floral, diamond, borderprint blouse was an eclectic addition. Shades consisted of midnight, custard and merlot. A honeyed brown, shearling duffle coat was a lovable standout. A pleated, tan, suede, thigh grazing mini featured white stitching detail. An ivory, shearling duffle coat version was paired to a collared, patchwork, mini dress.

A high waisted, free flowing skirt was highlighted by a bold, Pucciesque scarf print in shades of mustard, cornflower and royal blue. A blue plaid western shirt was tucked neatly into the skirt. Details included ruffled panels and contrasting mint and emerald, scalloped collar.

Tough moto chic was evident on a quilted, black, leather jacket in boxy proportions. Bold patches added character. A floaty, silk dress starred in a striped, navy and orange graphic print. An Hermes inspired print also graced the guava collared dress.

An enticing display for the quirky fashionista not frightened to take fashion risks and stand out from the crowd.

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.  

 

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. 

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.