MICHAEL KORS SPRING 2017 COLLECTION

MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION 2017

Iconic designer Michael Kors presented an effervescent Spring 2017 collection replete with American classicism. Easy elegance was very much in attendance with flirtatious floral dresses oozing with finesse. Distinguished lines were also on offer with sleek, sleeveless, belted twill trenches in midnight blue.

Puerto Rican model Joan Smalls opened the show in a navy blue, streamlined trench dress. A defining silhouette ensued with the waist attenuated by a simplistic fudge leather belt. A contrasting, stark white collar added a nautical edge. A provocative thigh split brought allure to the equation. Accessories comprised of mocha, leather, peep toe platforms complete with dainty ankle strap. A utilitarian, two tone, envelope satchel was slung across the chest and finalised with gold hardware.

Flower power reigned supreme on a cornflower blue, navy and pristine white argyle vest modelled by Frederikke Sofie. The floral, emblazoned vest was coupled to a paisley, pinstripe combination, masculine shirt. Elongated sleeves were punctuated by delicate floral cuffs. A 70s inspired skinny neck tie featured in the same delicate daisy print. An above the knee, a-line, flounce skirt was highlighted by asymmetrical bold flora panels. Minimalistic, white accessories took centre stage and included white frame aviators, a bourgeois stark contrast, platform peep toe high heeled sandals and a sleek mini satchel finalised with a canvas, slate grey, shoulder strap.

Kors favourite Cameron Russell modelled a 40s derived, floral, halter, ruffle bandeau in shades of oyster grey, chocolate,caramel and midnight. Belted, high waisted bikini bottoms starred tiered, hip ruffles adding a voluminous touch. 

 Upper crust elegance prevailed on a Lauren Hutton inspired safari suit in heavenly white. Over extended sleeves with side split cuffs, a belted nipped in waist and a collarless neckline screamed of polished panache. Languid palazzo pants offered freedom of movement to the silhouette. A navy, crisp shirt with an oversized collar was teamed underneath the jacket with matching skinny scarf adorning the neck. A waxy leather, envelope clutch accessorised the sumptuously good pantsuit. 

Dutchie Marjan Jonkman took to the runway in a bloom filled trench dress. The appealing number featured peak shoulders, attenuated waist, streamlined sleeves and a bare v-neckline. A capacious skirt proceeded to flow, grazing kneecaps.

Splashes of turquoise, lime, watermelon and fuchsia ignited the runway with feminine arabesques consisting of bralets, tea dresses, poetic blouses and floor sweeping column maxi dresses.

An exuberant presentation replete with quintessential wardrobe staple taking you from boardroom to bar.

By Courtney Jones.

COACH 1941 SPRING 2017

COACH 1941 SPRING 2017

Designer Stuart Vevers of Coach 1941 produced a rebellious Spring 2017 collection with all things rock n roll taking centre stage. Androgynous, boxy, biker, leather jackets were paired to lighter than air slip dresses, a defining silhouette for the feminine motor head at heart.

Model Odette Pavlova took to the runway in a dusty pink, patchwork, shearling coat. Jolts of silver and buttermilk shearling oozing with textural delight. A black, waxy leather, halterneck, belted bralet was worn underneath the coat and layered to a silk, floral, transparent blouse. A sheer, rose pink, floral design starred on an elegant slip skirt complete with gathered waist and an ebony, scalloped hem. Pearlescent, magenta, creeper moccasins were infested with grommets galore adding a tough girl stance to the ensemble. Strawberry cat-eye sunglasses were cut high on the cheekbone and embellished with dainty Swarovski crystals for the added bling factor.

Ellen Rosa modelled a masculine, fire engine red, oversized, leather, biker jacket in cropped proportions. Black and white lace panelling, leather floral motifs and heavy duty studs adorned the renegade jacket. Red rosettes ignited a gossamer petticoat skirt which fell elegantly below the knee. Emerald leaf, boy leg briefs were teamed underneath the skirt for modesty. Jewellery comprised of multi layer wrap bracelets festooned with pearls, studs, a bandana and an oversized silver padlock charm, toughening the delicate skirt.

Marjan Jonkman brimmed with "don't care attitude" in a leather, fringed, drop waist dress. Star infested strips cascading freely with every stride Jonkman made. Salmon, floral inserts highlighted the bodice, skirt and sleeves with boudoir elements very much in attendance.

Release your inner rock goddess in a grunge inspired shrunken biker jacket punctuated in paisley floral panels. Shades include lemon, onyx, mint and buttercup. Team to a ruffled round neck lace blouse accented by dainty bows on the placket. Layer to the hard working, sweetheart neckline, cropped leather waistcoat. An alluring, noir slip skirt in peek-a-boo silk finalised the naughty but nice ensemble.

Other key garments included a hybrid parka/ moto jacket, ingenuity at its best, Elvis emblazoned tees, Americana references proving popular yet again with Vevers. Varsity bomber jackets in tomato, embroidered with blooms throughout. Indigo denim pieces including a tomboy, relaxed denim jacket and an oversized, utilitarian vest bedecked with patches and studs aplenty will certainly get the tick of approval amongst Insta fashionistas.

Perfect pieces for the city slick trailblazer.

BY Courtney Jones.

VERSACE RESORT 17

VERSACE RESORT 2017

Donatella Versace's Resort 17 collection embodied sheer luxury in which the house is famed for. A dose of athleticism was thrown into the equation adding a utilitarian edge. Shrunken silhouettes offering plenty of skin were on the agenda with a monochromatic colour palette dominating throughout.

Sleek, clean, minimalistic lines were evident on the opening look modelled by Dutch native Roos Abels. The ensemble comprised of a streamlined, 3 button closure blazer with elongated sleeves accented by a jolt of cobalt on welt pockets and on button holes revealing finer details and craftsmanship. A funnel neck, white top was splashed with Versace's Italian tiled border print. Precision tailoring dominated on  7/8 skinny leg flare trousers. Fire engine red and cobalt side panelling ignited the arabesque. Matching panelled socks were on display, perfect for the woman who likes to sport coordinating under garments. Leg lengthening, high shine, patent platform strappy sandals and a ladylike boxy satchel in ebony complete with silver hardware screamed of powerhouse connotations.

A two tone black and royal blue leather parka threw sporting luxe into the mix.  Athleticism continued to frequent with the parka teamed to a black and white, pleated, netball skirt. A stark blanc and noir round neck blouse was worn tucked into the thigh skimming mini. Sculptural patent platform heels were finalised with velcro ankle straps and tomato, lavender, ink and white panelled socks.

A cropped, cocoon shouldered, candy stripe jumper was highlighted by shades of cherry, vanilla, lemon, cornflower blue and raven. A vertical candy stripe pencil skirt fell to the knee extending the silhouette to extreme streamlined proportions. Striped flatforms added the athleisure factor.

A ribbed, languid, slouch knit, hooded cardigan starred blue and white racing stripe trimmings with the letter 'V' for Versace placed around biceps. A midriff baring polo crop was worn buttoned to the top of the neck. 3/4 nylon trackpants came complete with side zip detail. An intergalactic cobalt leather satchel was plastered with star motifs and a star charm keyring. A heavy duty leather strap resembling a guitar strap was married to a silver chain short handle, strengthening the kitsch accessory.

A simplistic, waxy leather shift dress consisted of a round neck and stripe detail which starred on the right hand side of the bodice, geometric qualities reigning supreme. Colour infused Art Deco cuffs adorned wrists. A crisp red, black  and white satchel complemented the dress effortlessly. 

Polished panache was very much in attendance with flesh baring limbs, signature Versace style prevalent throughout.

 By Courtney Jones.

KHAKI ACCENTS

KHAKI ACCENTS

Military green is a great neutral to incorporate into the everyday working wardrobe.

Add a dash of camouflage for an edgy combination when teamed to sumptuous oxblood leather skinny pants. A structured blazer complete with a nipped in waist, accented with gold insignia buttons is the ultimate in designer luxury. A velvet and gold braided mini oozes ostentation. 

Accessorise with time classic aviators, Greek fisherman cap, polished colour block shoulder bag and stacked rope sandals for the self assured woman ready for battle.

Clockwise from top left-

FAITH CONNEXION Off The Shoulder Military Denim Jacket $735

CLARINS Eye Quartet Mineral Palette $58

ISABEL MARANT Miana Rope Wrap Sandals $470

BELL & ROSS Military Ceramic Watch $2910

RIVER ISLAND Captain’s Cap $48

GIVENCHY Aviators $730

BURBERRY Nail Polish $29

BALMAIN Wool Blazer $2450

BALMAIN Velvet Mini $5375

CLARINS Kohl Eyeliner $35

MOSCHINO Shoulder Bag $1790

ISABEL MARANT Gold Cuff $250

BURBERRY Lip Gloss $44

ISABEL MARANT Gold Earrings $125

ISABEL MARANT Leather Pants $2570

D&G Mascara $49

TRUE ROCKS Military Star Necklace $440

By Courtney Jones.

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.

 

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.

 

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.  

 

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.