COACH 1941 RESORT 2017

COACH 1941 RESORT 2017

Stuart Vevers of Coach 1941 produced a charming, rebel resort collection brimming with moto references fused with college sportswear. Luxe leather took centre stage oozing with attitude.

Estonian model Harleth Kuusik modelled a tomato red, boxy, leather, bomber jacket with quilted shoulder inserts, undulating contrast black panelling on the decolletage and asymmetrical zip pockets for the added cool factor. The Americana derived western jacket was paired to a high waisted, thigh grazing pencil skirt featuring heavy duty centre zip. A stud and grommet infested leather belt drew in the waist. A feminine, high neck, ruffle blouse starred in a refined leopard print. Heavy duty, platform moto boots complete with candy apple red leopard inserts evoked nineties style connotations. Accessories comprised of leather grommet wristlets layered to a chain and pearl bracelet. Oversized, silver baubles adorned fingers as Kuusik carried a colossal, pebbled leather tote complete with shoulder strap, dog tags and caricature motif of a figure executing his need for speed on his motorbike.

A brazen, gargantuan leopard print coat was a statement making addition. A petal pink, sixties derived western silk shirt was finalised with black piping and paired underneath the winter warmer essential. Remodelled cowboy boots consisted of pointy toe, copious buckles and a centre zip toughened the arabesque adding masculinity to the equation. A blush and avocado envelope satchel was highlighted by embroided stars and a rocket. A ladylike chain handle concluded the sassy ensemble.

Vevers remastered his highly desired floral dresses from previous seasons, this time comprising of short sleeves, drawstring round neck, flounce hem in a collage of dainty, delicate florals in shades of lemon curd, grass green and ballet pink twinned to undulating panels of vermilion leopard print. An ebony leather boxing belt with bold cherry blanket stitching attenuated the waist. Bohemian grunge elements reigning supreme.

Polished panache dominated on a boiled wool, sloping shoulder, cape coat. The turtleneck design starred leather strap and buckle closure. A cosy camel relaxed ribbed knit and oxblood panelled a-line leather mini concluded the chic number. A leather Greek fisherman cap featured an embellished band which was frequented by studs, beads and floral metal motifs bringing the bling factor. Patent claret ankle boots ignited the fashion forward combo.

An emerald, shrunken, satin college bomber jacket with skull and cross bone kitsch iron on transfer was pared back to a paisley floral blouse worn tucked into ultra high, form fitting leather Capri pants. Bone cat eye wayfarers and a greige tote with sports car print finalised the outfit. 

Other standouts included a sumptuous desert sand suede pinafore in a relaxed boxy silhouette. An ivory embroidered yoke blouse and scalloped collar exuded insouciance. An eggplant, soft, tomboy leather moto jacket screamed of nonchalance.

Biker chic fused with varsity sportswear resulting in a retro inspired collection for the young at heart, born to be wild.

By Courtney Jones.

 

DOLCE AND GABBANA SPRING 2016

DOLCE AND GABBANA SPRING 2016

Design extraordinaires, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana produced an uplifting collection brimming with Italian heritage. The colourful, flamboyant display held all the hallmark features of Dolce and Gabbana with kitsch motifs throughout reigning supreme.

Katya Ledneva modelled a lustrous, pewter, brocade pea coat emblazoned with the slogan 'Italia is love'. Embellishment came in the form of colossal sized daisy buttons, tapestry gardenias, jonquil applique, sequined lemons, flora and fauna splashed about. An ornate, gold, flower crown featured a cherub centrepiece. Gargantuan white rosettes and angels were suspended from lobes. Gold slippers complete with gold foil rosettes concluded the look.

A round neck, mesh, transparent midi dress was plastered with black, olive and tomato red botanica. The signature Dolce and Gabbana black bralet was teamed underneath. Crochet doilies adorned the full circle skirt adding an artisan edge. A floral headband was ignited by canary yellow pom poms and cobalt gemstones.

Italy does oriental as Estelle Chen took to the runway in a bold fuchsia kimono wrap dress, highlighted by roses.An ebony, lace petticoat peeked coquettishly beneath the kimono hem.Flower power headphones were the ultimate accessory of choice, finalised with multi tasseled ends. As Chen approached the end of the runway fellow model Eva Berzina snapped a selfie on the runway. 

Warm days spent in Capri called for the wardrobe staple sundress. Thick apron straps, square neckline, full circle skirt and black buttons added plenty of Italian charm. Sweet innocence prevailed on a heavenly white lace insert, baby doll mini dress. Undulating blue and white blooms added a burst of colour. Lavender sandals were heavily embellished with crystal flower motifs.

A diaphanous, boatneck maxi billowed with every stride Larissa Mascarenhas made. Details included an azure and yellow border-print silk chiffon fabric, long sleeves, tapered waist and voluminous skirt. Mammoth, gimmicky lemon and daisy earrings and a lemon decorated tiara were statement making additions.

Hand painted Italian scenery graced a sweetheart neckline bralet in shades of turquoise, carmine, daffodil yellow and khaki. A wide, black elasticised band sat high on the torso and flowed seamlessly into a full swirling skirt illustrated with Italian tourist destinations; perfect attire for an Italian screen siren.

For those who prefer tailoring with a subtle, masculine edge opt for the Spanish, matador inspired,polka dot, three piece suit. Details include cropped, shrunken jacket, matching waistcoat complete with velvet covered buttons and tapered 7/8 trousers. An ostentatious, black velvet and gold minaudiere oozed with decadence.

An effervescent, collection sure to brighten your day.

By Courtney Jones.

BURBERRY PRORSUM 2016

Burberry Prorsum Spring 2016

Venerable designer Christopher Bailey of Burberry delivered London upper crust elegance for his Spring 2016 collection. Bailey's designs are invariably imbued with a sense of sophistication; think sensuous, guilty pleasures steeped in luxury. The collection opened with a transparent lace, ebony, drop waist tiered slip dress, complete with scalloped hemline. A lattice panel plunged to the navel. The spidery slip evoked gossamer airiness toyed with a suggestive game of hide and seek. A lightweight canvas trench with gold accents was layered to the dress for modesty. Mammoth chains festooned platform pool slides complete with rubber soles which added a nonchalant approach to the ensemble. 

Model Lameka Fox took to the runway in a mushroom, lace, empire line mini dress. Details included deep decolletage neckline, long sleeves, contrasting black lace panelling under the bust which flowed effortlessly into a body skimming, thigh grazing arabesque. Gold regimental buttons encrusted pool slides combining ostentation to the mix. 

Lace galore continued to dominate the runway and highlighted a sculptural guipure lace and mesh trench dress. Bailey's ingenuity prevailed yet again. Floral applique flourished throughout lending a playful edge.

A sheer peony pink, embellished, shapely mini dress comprised of insert mesh pleats, structured bodice and lattice panelling; a heavenly textural delight. Caged gold and black platform ankle booties strengthened the silhouette. Matte berry stained lips, translucent satin complexion and a neutral eye complemented the flirtatious standout. 

A contemporary skater dress featured in goffered silk. A floral print in a colour palette consisting of mulberry, milk and ink illuminated the youthful concoction. A grommet and gold chain nylon backpack was slung low on the rear and oozed of the nineties grunge factor.

Binx Walton modelled a lemon curd, crew neck, stretch lace tiered mini dress brimming with girlish charm. The saccharine number called for a high tea session for ladies who lunch. The unanticipated combination of heavy pool slides complete with badge motif continued to frequent dainty creations aplenty.

For the Burberry vixen; an aspirin dot mesh, transparent, maxi dress in the shade of oxblood. Details included spliced keyhole, concertina collar, built in ebony mesh waist cincher and provocative thigh high split. Release your inner starlet with this sophisticated, fashion forward, eveningwear number.

Gothic glam reigned on a billowy, box pleat, cape coat which was of midi length proportions. The arresting coat was twinned to a midnight, vintage style, silk mini dress. Intricate beadwork showcasing couture craftsmanship graced the dress in floral patterns consisting of shades including gold, topaz, silver and ruby. An under the bust mesh insert revealed a window pane of flesh.

A romantic collection fused effectively with techy sportswear, with a strong nod to the 1940s.

By Courtney Jones.

COACH SPRING 2016

COACH SPRING 2016

Coach designer Stuart Vevers delivered an effervescent Spring 2016 collection replete with pulchritude. Lush bohemian florals in a riot of colour were splashed across an abundance of garments reminiscent of timeless style icon Ali Macgraw's signature look.

Botanic decadence flourished on a midi patchwork floral dress. Cobalt, fire engine red, lavender, emerald and ebony ignited the dress which starred in relaxed proportions. A raven, ruffled collar featured dainty bow and covered buttons descended down the placket. A raspberry red, leather moto jacket hardened the feminine silhouette, details included quilted shoulder inserts and tan suede ties. Ankle boots comprised of panelled camel, floral, black and white. An edgy accessory for the fashion forward woman. 

Spells of chiffon highlighted a granny inspired, scalloped floral blouse. An embroidered patchwork motif was emblazoned throughout the decolletage area. An a-line royal blue and ink quilted leather mini skirt brimmed with tough girl attitude. A small toffee leather satchel was embellished with camellias in hues of mustard and white. A leather chain strap handle exuded ladylike demure.

A biker vest was updated in a playful azure floral with leather trimmings and industrial zips. A flounce skirt with jade accordion pleats was teamed to a ribbed grey marle and floral Henley tee. A sweet yet sinful combination.

Seventies nostalgia dominated on a fudge hued leather coat complete with rum n raisin leather and desert sand suede inserts. The coat fell mid thigh and was punctuated by oversized gold buttons. A drop waist mini dress evoked an enchanted secret garden. Mammoth rounded square shades in yellow gradient were a characterful addition pulled off perfectly by Texan model Vanessa Moody.

A knitted kitsch, cobalt, turmeric, black and white crew neck jumper featured patterned moon, clouds and mountainous terrain. The knit was layered to a white high neck scalloped collar complete with dainty neck tie. A relaxed leather flounce skirt was adorned with patchwork motifs. A snakeskin bowling bag in neutral undertones completed the look.

A rigid, shrunken, geometric patchwork leather jacket blossomed in shades of powder puff blue, russet, paprika and muted olive. A ribbed diamond knit was teamed underneath the jacket. A scalloped terracotta suede and quilted leather mini was a rustic inclusion enlivened with bohemian qualities.

A lapis blue and burnt orange suit starred in elongated proportions. The slimline jacket featured oversized lapels and pockets. Body skimming flares with front flat placket oozed with deluxe hippie connotations. A paisley, keyhole, dolman sleeved blouse added a poetic element. Tiger loafers, charm bracelet and leather floral  studded cuff added pop art and tenderness to the mix.

A captivating collection for the Talitha Getty inspired jetsetter.

By Courtney Jones.

 

SPRING ESSENTIALS

SPRING ESSENTIALS

1. BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY

Channel your inner bohemian with a textural suede a-line mini pared back to the staple chambray shirt in relaxed proportions. An ethnic inspired shift dress evokes exotic excursions abroad. Statement making gladiator block heels ooze of polished perfection. Accessorise with the lust worthy  fringed bucket bag. With a strong nod to the seventies embrace the free spirited aesthetic. Ostentatious gold sunglasses are steeped in grandeur.

ANNA SUI Printed dress $579

RAILS Carter shirt $240

EMILIO PUCCI Suede mini $1350

SEED HERITAGE Jane gladiator heel $179.95

ETRO Paisley bucket bag with leather fringe $1195

Michael Kors Bradshaw watch $495

ISABEL MARANT Gold plated cuff $780

REPOSSI 18k gold ring $10080

LINDA FARROW Gold aviators $1560

CLARINS Lip balm $34

2. MINIMALISM

Clean, sleek, sophisticated tailored lines in a crisp colour palette consisting of black and white ensure your monochromatic ensemble works effortlessly with your everyday life. Birkenstock inspired slides teamed to a simplistic LBD add the casual cool factor to the equation. Perennially chic stripes adorn a shell blouse, leg lengthening flares married to a streamlined sleeveless duster coat are the ultimate go-to for the working woman. A boxy ladylike tote will withstand the test of time. A masculine watch adds a dose of androgyny to the mix.

ALEXANDER WANG Dress $250

BASSIKE Blouse $380

Pieces Vest $120

SEED HERITAGE Flare pant $185

COUNTRY ROAD Sandal $90

GIVENCHY Graphic heels $1670

LANVIN Nomad tote $3405

MARC BY MARC JACOBS Watch $299

SAINT LAURENT Sunglasses $485

3. 90s GRUNGE

The 90s grunge trend continues to dominate and is especially popular amongst festival-goers. Uniform distressed denim cut-offs and a signature plaid shirt will ensure you conform with the youth of today. A logo less acid wash backpack is a everyday essential. Tattooed charm tiered choker necklaces and round sunglasses complete the look. The ankle boot is updated with a modern edge featuring exposed heel and double buckle fastening.

RAILS Plaid shirt $185

TOPSHOP Crop top $28

RILEY Denim shorts $125

SENSO Ankle boots $265

H and M Backpack $43

WET SEAL Choker $15

VINTAGE Trucker cap $22

FOREVER 21 Sunglasses $8.40

4. GLAMOUR PUSS

For the sassy and sensual, indulge in a titillating form fitting dress in raspberry. Polka dot mesh inserts offer a hint of body baring flesh. A rigorously cut blazer nips in the waist and broadens the shoulders. A figure hugging leather pencil skirt with industrial zips means business, enlivening the arabesque. The caged vertiginous stiletto brims with empowerment, tassels add a feminine touch. Finalise with the signature Chanel quilted handbag, the ultimate in opulence.

BALMAIN Draped dress $3505

BALMAIN Double breasted jacket $2775

DIESEL Leather skirt $910

SOPHIA WEBSTER Lacey heel $980

CHANEL Bag $9020

URBAN DECAY Eyeshadow $30

GIVENCHY Le Rouge $54

CHANEL Nail polish $41

CHANEL Mascara $53

By Courtney Jones.

 

VALENTINO RESORT 2016

VALENTINO RESORT 2016

Designers, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli of Valentino lent their masterful ways to produce a triumphant manifestation for Valentino's Resort 2016 collection. Intricate handiwork flourished on folk heritage inspired garments bursting with sheer enchantment.

Ine Neefs opened the show in a crew neck salt n pepper knit complete with gold lurex neckline. This wardrobe staple was teamed to an ebony double breasted coat with Ikat derived embroidery which blossomed on the forearms in an array of eye catching shades including emerald, tangerine and azure. A drop waist captivating aspirin dot mesh maxi featured embellished beadwork panelling which brimmed of decadence. The look was accessorised with patterned sneakers, an unlikely combination that worked surprisingly well juxtaposed against the couture refinement.

Ingenue connotations dominated on a statement full length a-line mesh embroidered dress. Long sleeves and high neck detail graced the artisanal garment. Flower and fauna applique starred in shades of cherry, buttercup, forest green and turquoise which offset beautifully against the ebony and mocha bodice. Lavish military surplus was the order of the day on a golden khaki utilitarian jacket complete with embroidered epaulets, pocket flaps and cuffs. A pebbled raven satchel featured stud detail and a wide woven shoulder strap in a kaleidoscope of colour. This updated jacket was twinned to a round neck ethnic pleated mini dress. Earrings resembling dream catchers dangled precariously from the model's lobes finalised with dainty feathers.

A leather intarsia bomber jacket was adorned with the Canadian Maple leaf motif. Other flags to grace the boldly hued moto jacket included the Brazilian flag which was intermixed with the Bolivian flag lending a multicultural edge. A monochromatic scalloped broderie anglaise panelled mini dress featured lace up keyhole and translucent petticoat slip for modesty.

Exquisite craftsmanship ruled on a black gossamer lace ankle grazing dress. The high neckline oozed of poetic romanticism. The sheer body skimming silhouette was scattered with cascading butterflies, bird life and an oversized tree motif which displayed a smirking monkey and robust elephant. A tasselled square clutch complete with tooled purse clasp concluded with a turquoise stone. The seventies continues to reign supreme.

Magical Valentino DNA was embedded into a lavish patchwork floor sweeping dress. Scarlet spidery lace inserts through the mid torso section gave way to delicate floral fabrics in shades of pistachio, grape, flame, cobalt, flamingo and alabaster. A wondrous concoction brimming with tenderness and fragility.

A brocade, empire line full skirted dress featured in micro proportions. The floral print resembled a Monet painting with a field of flowers blossoming throughout the entire dress. Simplistic chocolate leather sandals with crossover ankle detail came complete with gold leaf embellishment across the breadth of the foot. 

A muted cornflower blue evening gown with subtle bishop sleeve was sheathed by ethereal flowers, a shop stopping addition exuding luxurious peasant folklore .

A heavenly intercontinental collection surging with pulchritude sure to grace fashion royalty and glossies worldwide.

By Courtney Jones.

Balmain Pre Fall 2015

Balmain Pre Fall 2015

Revered designer Olivier Rousteing of Balmain, produced a Pre Fall 2015 Collection replete with grandiose and extravagance. The seventies decade style cue proved to be popular once again with designers this season and Rousteing was no exception to the rule.

Rousteing delved into new territory and experimented with bold, striking floral prints that commanded plenty of attention.

Rousteing states,"For this collection I felt the confidence to further evolve the signature look of Balmain, incorporating new and unexpected prints, colours and cuts".

Hemlines on offer included the signature micro mini proportions and free flowing, floor grazing pants so full in volume they resembled a maxi skirt.

Devon Windsor opened the collection in a monochromatic, photosynthesis inspired floral print Palazzo pant which was teamed to a black and white, candy striped turtleneck knit complete with black cuffs, neck and side panelling detail. A golden chartreuse overcoat punctuated the look adding a dose of colour and the staple leather boxing belt defined the waist creating a feminine silhouette.

The Balmain femme fatale is full of dynamism, uninhibited with a strong appetite for all things opulent updated with a modern edge. An ebony, fine knit turtleneck  sweater with exposed shoulder detail was twinned to a burnt tamarind, ruffle flounce skirt in sensual satin with high-low hem detail. A lustrous candy apple red waist cincher attenuated the waist. Semi sheer stockings, gold toe cap ankle cuff court shoe stilettos and raven woollen overcoat finalised the look.

Azure florals graced a high neck, ruffled mini dress with peekaboo keyhole and fluid, diaphanous Palazzo pant which was paired to a transparent, seductive blouse with a velvet tuxedo blazer thrown casually over the shoulder for an insouciant touch.

Disco fever prevailed on an ice silver, multi fringed cape dress. Crystal encrusted sleeves dazzled conjuring copious amounts of ostentation to the mix. Fringing continued to star on an emerald green, round neck mini dress complete with dolman sleeves and fringing in undulating patterns swathing every curve of the model's torso. High voltage glamour came in the form of a scarlet, ruched satin evening dress with provocative centre leg split. Sharp shoulder, aspirin dot mesh sleeves added the va-va-voom factor. Overblown fur sleeves accompanied a waxy leather blazer which was finalised with billowy, sheer, pleated trousers, leaving little to the imagination, ribbed knit and boxing belt. 

A magnetic, halter jumpsuit oozed of impeccable glamour and decadence. Fire engine red florals and jade green fauna were plastered throughout the garment. A high waisted matching belt elongated the languid trousers which draped casually on the floor. Pointy toed, velvet, crossover ankle strap stilettos concluded the look.

This collection is sure to resonate with the 'Balmain Army' with rigorously cut, defined silhouettes still proving to be an integral role in Rousteing's design mantra.

By Courtney Jones.

Gucci Spring 2015

Gucci Spring 2015

Fashion mogul Frida Giannini of Gucci produced a victorious Spring 2015 collection. Stylish decadence teamed with poetic enchantment ruled the runway with seventies references prevalent throughout. Bourgeois tailored silhouettes reigned supreme on ladylike suiting whilst free spirited, bohemian references oozed of nonchalance. Think seventies musicians fused with iconic fashion muses.

The collection opened with a funnel neck, fitted, cropped jacket in the shade of eggshell with safari inspired breast pockets offset by gargantuan gold Medusa head buttons. A body skimming a-line skirt fell above the knee and featured a centre front split. Accessories included reptilian, multi ankle strap block heeled sandals in burnt caramel, silk printed neck tie and fudge suede shoulder bag complete with Gucci's famed forest green and red equestrian inspired striped strap.

Tanya Katysheva modelled a sumptuous suede trench dress in the delectable shade of toffee, an absolute wardrobe staple. Suede also starred on a hip hugging 7/8 pantaloons which featured gold hardware detail. A billowy printed silk blouse in vermilion, honey and ivory came complete with lace up detail. A languid arabesque for the deluxe gypsy.

Vanessa Moody modelled a nautical inspired, collarless denim dress, similar to the famed YSL Safari dress donned by Veruschka in the seventies. Overblown sleeves, side splits and statement making white ribbon plunged down the front placket and sides of the dress. A slimline tan plaited leather belt attenuated the waist. A sturdy, mid sized shoulder satchel in crocodile added a dose of ostentation to the mix.

A multi hued, Mongolian lamb fur vest in wine, paprika and dove grey packed some serious punch. This free spirited addition was paired to a crossover bust, elasticised waisted dress grazing knee caps which complemented the vest in autumnal shades. Delicate, ethereal whimsy prevailed on a sweet yet seductive scarlet, long sleeved silk dress complete with transparent floral, embroidered inserts which starred on the upper arm, shoulder and thigh. The lace up ribbon neckline continued to be a firm fixture. Terracotta, suede, midi ankle boots were sleek and toughened up the arabesque.

Nadja Bender modelled a silk chinoiserie dress which was contrasted by black elbow cuffs and neckline. Gold bullion embroidery featured across the chest area lending a modern edge to the garment.

A succession of indigo and chambray denim pieces weighed heavily throughout the collection and included a utilitarian key hole dress, a button down long sleeve dress, sailor inspired jeans, peasant shirt dress and a cutaway 3/4 jumpsuit finalised with large keyhole, multiple rows of yellow stitching and suede under the knee boots.

A Balmain-esque khaki, military jacket in cropped boxy proportions was married to a printed kaftan blouse, androgynous, cuffed boyfriend jeans, round tortoiseshell lunettes and natural snakeskin almond toe midi boots. A look Binx Walton sported with the perfect combination of panache and insouciance.

The finale consisted of exquisitely embellished cocktail dresses with demure hemlines. Whimsical chinoiserie florals graced a moss green/ apricot plunge dress, sherbet/ burgundy/ fire engine red tapered wrist spliced key hole dress, mandarin/ mushroom transparent dress and lastly a bottle green/ navy halter dress featuring beaded collar and waist sash.

By Courtney Jones.

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Isabel Marant Spring/Summer 2014

Isabel Marant Spring/Summer 2014

Feminine charm prevailed yet again this S/S 2014 season for Parisian designer Isabel Marant. Delicate pieces oozing with whimsical allure were annealed with leather, grommets and structured arabesques.

Elisabeth Erm opened the collection in a boxy, sharp shouldered tuxedo jacket comprising of elongated torso, satin nonchalant lapels and sleeves worn cuffed mid elbow length. A  layered, white frothy, lace mini dress brimming with innocence produced femininity combined with the tuxedo jacket equalling masculinity. A grosgrain ribbon acted as a sash belt adding casual cool to the equation.

A ruffled pure white camisole with ethereal qualities featured embellished panelling. This look was twinned with leather 3/4 track pants complete with lace up, grommet and blanket stitch pocket detail creating a cutting edge aesthetic. Leather, braided cuffs were the accoutrement of choice.

Hana Jirickova modelled a pair of distressed, muted salmon, denim shorts, deconstructed and frayed throughout were teamed with a lace boatneck top dissected at the shoulder seemingly held together by sutures.

Romanticism ruled on a dramatic, ruffled, sheer jacket featuring sculptural rounded shoulder. A Breton scoop neck tank accompanied the jacket and was complete when paired with relaxed, flesh trouser and beaded tassel lariat. A tiered, leather rah rah skirt with halter layered puristic cami was street or boudoir applicable. Hardened femininity was a reoccurring theme for Marant.

White, broderie anglaise, lace up trousers accessorised with cumbersome plaited leather belt were teamed with pale ice vo vo sheer scoop basic tank and a collarless ruched sleeve and bodice jacket with raw edge ruffle detail.

An indigo wash denim blazer featuring black lapels and sensual lace inserts was pieced together with matching floral lace tee and ivory pink, utilitarian trouser with robust hardware.

Svetlana Zakharova modelled a chiffon, flounce, spaghetti strap, mini dress featuring peach coloured blossoms reminiscent of a Cezanne painting. A leather strip bow belt attenuated the waist.

A dash of insolence was evident on a leather boatneck, long sleeve, drop waist tunic, tiered lace hemline in ultra short proportions. Country and western influences and Marant DNA was mixed with French savvy.

A lace, scalloped triangle bralet was full of enchantment, this was paired with black denim Bermudas and an organza, ruffle shrug.

Footwear continually dominates a Marant collection yet this season Marant didn't quite hit the mark with her rendition of a bulky Mary Jane crossed with a bootie complete with stud and grommet embellishment cascading down the t-bar strap of the shoe. A sturdy, suede cone heel ensured stability. Only time will tell if this shoe is as well received as Marant's famed wedge sneaker.

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.