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.

 

BALMAIN FALL 2016

BALMAIN FALL 2016

Designer Olivier Rousteing of Balmain produced a hedonistic, sizzling collection steeped in opulence. Feminine, sculptural silhouettes reminiscent of Alexander McQueen's design DNA featured, pulsating energy echoing throughout. The decadent collection was held at the Palais Royal and played host to a menagerie of celebrities, all ready for their close up.

Model of the moment, Kendall Jenner opened the show in a powdered storm grey, pinstripe, sharp shouldered, full length, cardigan coat teamed to matching body con tank. A restrictive, high waisted, corseted skirt fell on the upper thigh. Details included boning, silver hook and eye and sumptuous fur panels.Suede thigh high boots emulating Stuart Weitzman's 'Highland' style concluded the look.

Tami Williams exuded 80s prowess in a powerhouse suede and fur sleeve, crossover, wrapped jacket. The voluminous jacket was paired to high waisted, flat front, stretch suede leggings. A signature boxing belt in chrome finalised the ensemble.

Danish beauty Josephine Skriver modelled an ice vo-vo, baroque inspired creation comprising of a high neck with cut out shoulder detail, ornate rose gold pearl embellishment and copious rows of tasselled pointrines dangling from the bust and sleeves. A white and gold cincher nipped in the waist which flowed fluidly into a scalloped hem mini skirt adorned with delicate, undulating beading. 

Statuesque Karlie Kloss took to the runway in a ballet pink, corseted camisole. The structured bodice celebrated the female silhouette. Ethereal, transparent lace trousers caressed legs and starred cascading silk waterfall ruffles. A corrugated crystal plate choker with gold hardware was oversized and hardened the romantic garments. A powder puff blue, tapestry silk brocade ignited a striking, off the shoulder, long sleeve, corseted blouse. Sheer panels highlighted the decolletage with brocade seams concluding the peplum blouse. Matching body conscious, stretch trousers encased every curve of Katya Ledneva's lithe physique.

Catwoman references were evident on a  sensual, black velvet, bodysuit. Long sleeves, structured shoulders, nude panelling and velvet breast cups exuded a modern day gothic renegade. Stretch flat front trousers with darting concluded the fierce look.

A spectacular collection brimming with couture like finesse. Perennial party girls rejoice, Rousteing has delivered yet again.

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.

ROBERTO CAVALLI PRE FALL 2016

ROBERTO CAVALLI PRE FALL 2016

Creative Director, Peter Dundas worked his magic yet again on a standout, Baroque inspired collection bursting with pulsating energy. The collection derived from the seventies and was aptly photographed in the opulent Palazzo Clerici in Milan.

Dutch model Romy Schonberger portrayed a deluxe hippie in a boxy, black, velvet blazer which was ignited with fire engine red blooms, leopard print and undulating patterns. The elongated blazer was paired to a floor sweeping, drop waist, tiered maxi dress. Stars, flora and fauna oozed with decadence while lace panels added sensuality. 

A teal, electric cobalt and turmeric fur chubby was a lavish addition. A velvet, patchwork maxi skirt accompanied the jacket and starred in shades of chocolate, sapphire, cherry and oyster grey.

An alabaster, Mongolian fur coat fell to the knee, details included, tan braided leather cuffs and toggle. A turquoise kaftan and pant set was married to the bourgeois, bohemian number, finalised with black aviators and leopard sneakers complete with white, leather, toe cap.

Glam rock mindset was prevalent on a star spangled, black and gold, v-neck kaftan with scarf tie. A floral scarf was layered to the neckline adding combinations of clashing prints. Signature leopard punctuated a narrow tuxedo pantsuit. A poetic, lustrous, pleated blouse was worn underneath, ideal for the enigmatic rebel.

Animal motifs continued to dominate throughout and featured on a silk, skinny, scarf. The scarf was paired to a scoop neck, embellished evening gown. Intricate craftsmanship played a pivotal role , with dark romance reigning supreme.

Bleached, high waisted denim displayed a flare leg arabesque with silver, sequin stars emblazoned near ankles and the hip area. An aquamarine, metallic, leather belt drew in the waist. A sharp shouldered, velvet blazer in raven exploded with beaded fireworks, a bronze lame, high neck, ruffled blouse brimmed of nonchalance.

A lavish, statement making, ebony poncho was a dramatic addition. The fur collar and fringing offered gypset qualities. A grommet trimmed, tiered maxi skirt concluded the look.

The collection closed with a liquid, scintillating, ice silver, sequin evening dress. The boat neckline was highlighted by ornate, swirling, fauna beadwork. The body skimming silhouette was striking, destined for the social circuit soiree.

An enlivened collection from Mr Dundas brimming with vivacity and allure.

By Courtney Jones.        

BURBERRY PRE FALL 2016

BURBERRY PRE FALL 2016

Christopher Bailey's Pre Fall offering was tinged with seventies, retro, connotations. Quintessential, British style was on the agenda and resulted in striking silhouettes with a dash of attitude.

Amazonians need only apply to wear the sumptuous, patchwork, raccoon and fox fur duffle coat in voluminous proportions. Shades of flecked honey, charcoal, vanilla and licorice punctuated the statement making coat. Black, leg lengthening flares were polished and featured crisp, white stitching.

The archival trench was updated this season in heavenly chocolate suede. A protruding collar was worn high at the nape of the neck. The trench fell to the knee cap and an ebony, suede wide belt graced the torso, complete with gold hardware buckle. A mini chartreuse, crocodile and Burberry check satchel was suspended from a capacious, gold chain handle. Narrow, navy, tailored trousers engulfed footwear.

Aviation references were prevalent on a shearling, oversized, bomber jacket. Butter soft caramel suede was highlighted by colossal sized, double breasted, gold buttons. A tasselled chain backpack oozed of downtown, London chic.

Shearling continued to star on a military inspired, khaki parka. The cosy, fashion forward addition embodied utilitarian qualities. A black, neatly collared blouse was worn tucked into raven, elongated trousers that sat low on the hip. A textural check and leather satchel finalised the look.

An A-line, neutral trench with chocolate stitching brimmed of classicism, clean, polished lines took centre stage, a Burberry staple designed to withstand the test of time.

Dark romance kindled a form fitting, crew neck, t-shirt. The sassy tee was paired to dark indigo, denim trousers with a bohemian element prevalent. A boiled wool cape coat offered regimental qualities to the mix. A compact, bordeaux hued satchel was a textural delight in fabrics consisting of suede and ostentatious crocodile.

A series of feminine dresses closed the collection including a funnel neck, short sleeve,drop waist, pleated mini which starred in forest green and mandarin hued fauna and flora, complete with black piping. Wooden, platform, block heeled ankle boots in suede were the footwear of choice. Seventies nostalgia crept in on a black, chiffon, maxi dress. Details included buttoned epaulets, preppy collar, chest pockets, white zig zag panelling and ruffled skirt, monochrome peasant folklore for the statuesque beauty.

An undeniably charming collection fused with Burberry's heritage, hallmark features.

By Courtney Jones.

LANVIN PRE FALL 2016

LANVIN PRE FALL 2016

Design stalwart, Alber Elbaz departed Lanvin October 2015 after 14 years at the helm of the prestigious Parisian fashion house. Chomena Kamali and Lucio Finale were appointed acting Creative Directors, the result a sumptuously good collection steeped with sophistication and impeccable glamour.

The collection opened with a black, waxy, rubber coated trench complete with bouffant drop shoulder and raw unfinished hems. A white, poetic, high neck, scalloped, broderie anglaise blouse added drama to the ensemble which also included a floor grazing, regally hued, ruby, velvet maxi skirt. Accessories comprised of colossal, multi drop, diamante earrings, diamond patterned neckerchief and a small, neat, pearl encrusted boxy satchel.

A silk chartreuse pinafore swept the floor and starred in languid proportions. A tuxedo, wraparound blouse added polished panache to the fashion forward combination. A compelling patchwork, for fur coat featured in shades of toffee, vanilla fudge, butterscotch, and flecked mocha. A dark chocolate leather belt attenuated the waist, leather continued to adorn the cuffs and collar. The coat was married to suede culottes in the shade of maple. Victoriana themed, desert sand ankle boots were the footwear of choice with dainty almond toe and dark chocolate velvet shoelaces.

A generously cut, velvet, sapphire trench resembled a luxurious bathrobe.Voluminous, velvet palazzo pants matched the trench. Sleeves were pushed up insouciantly, on a pink and white candy stripe, ruffled shirt which was paired underneath. An ebony, fabric choker was emblazoned with dainty, red, bows.

Velvet continued to reign the design acumen and frequented a strapless, maxi dress with black bodice and crepe bandage straps that crossed over the decolletage and tied on the shoulder. A suede, mauve, belt drew in the waist which flowed fluidly into a lace, velvet and mesh panelled skirt. The colour palette included eggplant, ballet pink, maroon and noir. 

Poetic mash ups dominated on a deep, v-neck, flounce blouse in shades of aquamarine and cocoa, with gold foil detail. An alabaster, scalloped lace insert finalised the blouse which sat high on the hip. Mustard, tailored trousers in relaxed proportions brimmed with seventies connotations. For cocktail hour, a semi transparent, long sleeve, lace mini dress complete with ruffled bib will ensure you're queen of enchantment. Patent, leather, sharp pointed brogues added an androgynous edge.

Monochrome commanded a tailored, striped vest with origami qualities evident. Matching architectural, maximist culottes were of midi length and made for the fashion fearless. A buttersoft, leather, pleated camisole was a dapper accession. The billowing cami was teamed to an alabaster, fishtail midi skirt, a romantic ensemble with a modern day approach. 

A characterful collection oozing with ostentation for the self assured woman.

 

By Courtney Jones.