IRO Fall 2015

IRO Fall 2015

Kings of energised cool, brothers Laurent and Arik Bitton of IRO produced an undeniably charming Fall 2015 collection. Rock n roll references infused with bohemian, peasant folklore were present throughout offering timeless classics. The design mantra being "French chic meets New York street style" as stated by the pair.

Look one comprised of capacious, textural oatmeal sweater complete with ribbed crew neck and cuffs tucked nonchalantly into sleek, clean, minimalistic high waisted trousers in ivory. An opulent, plush shearling gilet accompanied the look. Accessories consisted of suede, stacked cone heel, sharpened almond toe booties and a narrow studded ebony belt. The trousers proved to be the order of the day and were subsequently paired to a rustic fisherman turtleneck knit, quintessential modern day tuxedo shirt, tweed boucle duster coat and a monochromatic mariniere turtleneck ribbed sweater.

Covetable model off duty style came in the form of the Ikat blanket wrap oversized cardigan in shades of black, midnight and dove grey, a nomadic addition paired to a thigh grazing, free flowing cotton mini skirt throwing femininity into the mix. The go-to ribbed charcoal knit concluded the look.

Autumnal pulchritude shone brightly on a bourgeois dolman sleeve blouse in a colour palette comprising of regal ruby and ink. The printed blouse was paired to high waisted waxed leather trousers of 7/8 length. The floral print continued to feature on a free spirited, streamlined shift dress, finalised with a leather obi sash belt drawing in the waist for an alluring arabesque. High voltage patent brogue-boots starred studs and two strap buckle closure conjuring androgyny at its best.

Intrepid traveller references were channelled throughout a characterful scarlet, buff and ebony tribal coat, falling on the upper thigh. An aubergine ribbed knit was teamed to a cotton tiered asphalt hued mini, accessorised yet again by the leather obi belt.

Other wardrobe staples included an ivory, ruffled, flounce blouse oozing with tenderness and fragility, a seventies lace-up safari inspired tunic, think Veruschka does Paris and the time honoured leather motorcycle jacket, cropped and shrunken in all its sublimity. Polished beatnik perfection came in the form of a wraparound leather mini with subtle paper bag waist. A transparent, spiderweb knit complete with opaque knit panelling across the bust and a voluminous woven cocoon overcoat accompanied the look. These pieces offered endless style combinations for the ever elusive outfit of the day.

IRO is stocked at David Jones City and Bondi Junction stores and selected online boutiques nationally. IRO will be launching their highly anticipated flagship boutique in Double Bay later this year.

By Courtney Jones.

Burberry Prorsum Fall 2015

Burberry Prorsum Fall 2015

Designer Christopher Bailey's latest Fall 2015 offering aptly titled Patchwork, Patterns and Prints embodied deluxe, nomadic hippies with impeccable style.

Amber Anderson opened the collection in a floral, psychedelic poncho in shades of turquoise, teal, navy, olive and chartreuse. Indian floral motifs added an ethnic edge to the fettuccine, suede fringed garment. Patchwork scarlet, ink and fudge over the knee boots oozed with artisanal qualities. A simplistic, black suede bucket bag concluded the look. Gold rivets accessorised the base of the bag.

A sumptuously good, retro inspired midi dress featured a round neck, streamlined full length sleeves and black piping on the waist, bust, neckline and thighs accenting Mica Arganaraz's femininity. A menagerie of florals in complementary shades of candy apple red, cherry and cloud blue worked harmoniously together on this free spirited number. The look was accessorised with 60s inspired, round tortoiseshell shades, teal pom pom adorned bangle and a dark grape, suede fringed, bucket bag. 

The signature, staple Burberry trench was updated in a bold botanic khaki and orange print complete with border print hem. Perfect for the flamboyant flower child. An uplifting addition which was paired to the patchwork, blanket stitch boots. A hallmark feature in Mr Bailey's collection.

For those who prefer to take a walk on the wild side- release your inner prowess with the leopard, shearling duster coat. A great statement, neutral piece sure to add plenty of grandeur to any outfit. The coat was modernised with an attached black waistcoat, acting as a harness complete with ribbed undulating panels caressing the outline of the bodice. Military green, coffee and ebony fringed suede booties were a heavenly accompaniment.

The nomadic excursion continued with a characterful, Indian inspired mirrored shell top in earthy hues. Details included sloping shoulders teamed to a tiered, fringed midi pencil skirt in camel. A clutch handbag in the signature Burberry check complete with mocha suede tassels was tucked nonchalantly under Iania Godnia's arm.

For the free spirited grown up with a strong appreciation of luxury, the forest green, gossamer lace maxi is an absolute must have. Sheer bodice complete with black crochet bib insert, subtle short puff sleeve, grosgrain ribbon belt attenuating the waist, flowing freely into multiple layers of whimsical lace. Ethereal qualities ruled, think Merlin meets medieval high end fashion. Black, tasselled, suede platform boots with deep foot decolletage concluded the look.

By Courtney Jones.

Michael Kors Fall 2015

Michael Kors Fall 2015

Masterful designer, Michael Kors created a charismatic Fall 2015 collection channelling easy elegance and classically minded pieces for the sophisticated woman.

Ubermodel, Natasha Poly emerged modelling a charcoal, ombre flecked, fox fur coat which fell below the knee. The oversized coat starred in mannish proportions and was twinned to a refined, scoop neck, grey marle sweater dress of midi length. Open back, slip on, oak brogues and a russet leather satchel handbag conjured deconstructed glam.

A mocha, double breasted blazer in tweed boucle featured split sleeve detail lending cape qualities to the mix. The blazer was drawn in at the waist by a simplistic, raven leather belt complete with burnished gold buckle. A matching midi length skirt was streamlined with subtle flounce hem revealing androgynous footwear. A neat, boxy, single handled handbag in mahogany oozed of ladylike chic. Consummate class reigned supreme on a wool, camel, double breasted coat. Tortoiseshell buttons descended down the coat's front panel while sleeves featured ostentatious fur trimmings from the elbow enveloping the entire hand to resemble gargantuan fur mittens.

For a jolt of colour try the jewel toned ruby, regal, damask print coat with showstopping oxblood fur collar which worked effortlessly against the flushed cheeks and porcelain skin of model Vanessa Moody. Fur continued to frequent the runway, Molly Blair modelled a sable scarf which fell to the knees and was belted to created feminine allure. The scarf acted as a collar to the khaki guncheck wool trench. The look was finalised with an olive, ribbed, turtleneck dress, layered perfection.

A yellow mustard damask tunic shift featured peekaboo keyhole and covered buttons which plummeted down the centre of the dress. A two tier flounce, relaxed sleeve added a bohemian feel. Ombre striped fox collar blended harmoniously with model Anna Ewer's wheaten tresses.

A poetic, glittered lace, sheer dress in teal was a dapper accession brimming with vivacity. The scalloped lace hem added a flirtatious edge. The transparent number was teamed to a teal plaid trench coat for modesty. dainty, waxy T-bar heels in ebony accompanied the look.

Bondi Junction local, Julia Nobis modelled a crystal encrusted paisley, pyjama like ensemble. Slouchy cuffed trousers and a relaxed shirt oozed of deluxe loungewear. An opulent, black , fox fur stole offered plenty of grandeur.

A victorious collection from the illustrious Kors, reinventing the hallmark classics to satisfy the global consumer.

By Courtney Jones.

Saint Laurent Fall 2015

Saint Laurent Fall 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Courtney Jones.

Isabel Marant Fall 2015

Isabel Marant Fall 2015

Design pioneer Isabel Marant delivered a Fall 2015 collection rich in characterful peasant folklore. Tribal, ethnic references were prevalent yet again with Marant delving into familiar territory with her signature earthy, back to nature garments for the intrepid traveller.

Russian supermodel Natasha Poly opened the collection in a generously cut, woven, cape coat with toggle and Ikat print detail. Freedom of movement was on Marant's agenda. The oversized coat was paired to a free flowing silk chiffon, printed, tiered mini skirt. A single, Navajo inspired feather earring dangled from Poly's left lobe. Black, waxed leather buckle midi booties with stacked heel completed the look.

Kate Grigorieva modelled  crisp, blanc, skinny leg, 3/4 denim jeans with subtle ankle flare. Epaulet detail on the outer upper thigh added a military surplus feel. A dove grey, blanket wrap, tunic featured sloping shoulders and a collarless neckline. Claret and ebony zig zag pattern highlighted the tunic. A leather belt was layered to a woven cummerbund, drawing in the waist. A psychedelic, bohemian, high neck blouse accompanied the look.

Ingenuity is embedded into Marant's design DNA- who could forget the famed wedge sneaker? This season she reinvented the waist to feature a ribcage, grazing, paper bag waistline. A surprisingly flattering silhouette which oozed of the energised cool factor. Anna Ewers modelled the updated version in the form of a stretch, white denim skirt. Asymmetrical welt pockets, epaulets and dart detailing added an undeniable charm. A simplistic, oatmeal sweater featured elongated ribbed cuffs and Ikat motif emblazoned across the chest and shoulders.

A voluminous, shrunken, cocoon, floral trench jacket starred in lavender, grape, duck egg blue, rose and white, a botanical delight. An obi belt added oriental influences to the mix. A sheer white, sunray pleat mini was a playful addition which was toughened up by Sergeant Peppers inspired leather boots which are sure to be on every fashionistas covet worthy, lust list. No doubt fashion chain stores worldwide will emulate the footwear design leading to an invasion of teens pounding the pavement in copycat Isabel Marant military boots.

The time honoured mariniere was remodelled to feature in a monochromatic black and white striped, ribbed knit mini dress. A bourgeois accession which was amplified by the addition of gladiatorial, over the knee, suede boots complete with shield inserts. Gold rivets were bolstered to the sides for easy access.

The collection concluded with a series of lighter than air silk tunics, minis, lace up shell tops and mini dresses bursting with delicate whimsy. Artisanal innocence reigned supreme on a standout ivory sheath with transparent torso panels complete with sunburst pleating and oversized, sleeveless armholes with flounce trimming. Cascading ruffles enveloped the lower half of the dress while a robust boxing belt in leather attenuated the waist.

By Courtney Jones.

Dsquared2 Fall 2015

Dsquared2 Fall 2015

Twin brothers Dean and Dan Caten of Dsquared2 transmogrified models into bona fide Yukon Indians for their latest Fall 2015 collection. The pair drew inspiration from their Canadian roots and were inspired by the mountainous terrain of Canada's wild west.

Caroline Trentini opened the collection in a shrunken, Herringbone blazer which was layered to the perennial favourite, denim jacket. A rustic corduroy waistcoat in the shade of toffee and white skinny leg jeans complete with with oversized pannier pockets concluded the look. A low slung, terracotta belt offset the pants. Mocha, studded stilettos featured fur inserts lending a cultural edge.

High octane energy came in the form of a bohemian suede coat with Mongolian lamb fur trimmings in shades of eggplant, lady bug red and ebony. Sable fur graced the lower half of the coat injecting textural delight. Distressed suede trousers looked as though they had been on a Bear Grylls adventure. Chunky cable knit socks, feathered lariat and colossal sized bejewelled earrings dangled precariously from Vanessa Moody's lobes. A matching statement neck piece added copious amounts of bling to the mix. High neck, full length tribal tattooed body stockings were a hallmark feature worn layered over the majority of runway looks. 

Sunkissed warrior, Kate Grigorieva modelled a black polished Sergeant Peppers inspired coat complete with gold bullion braiding. The structured coat was twinned to a modern day corset dress in herringbone. The feminine mini dress featured sassy gathering with leather drawstring ties. A fur stole in vanilla wheaten was suspended from Grigorieva's hip.

A clash of Spanish matador meets artisan village people was evident on a vermilion silk dinner jacket teamed to a cropped denim jacket, crisp white pussy bow blouse and ebony pantaloon. Gold bullet buttons cascaded down the outer calf for a boost of finesse. Accessories included a luxurious fur stole, sapphire teardrop bib necklace and a tribal infused tote featuring leather tassels, feathers, studs and intricate beadwork.

For the ultimate, statement making cover up, look no further than the fur Ikat print overcoat. A gargantuan fur hood framed Mariana Santana's face injecting cultural globetrotter qualities. Worn belted, the coat fell below the knee and starred in a colour palette comprising of pure white, scarlet, desert sand and chocolate. Not for the timid. Black, slimline 7/8 trousers with bullion braiding were paired to crystal encrusted stilettos. Not exactly ideal footwear for trekking mountains but it added a kitsch glam element to the look.

A colourful Mexican serape skirt was paired to a shearling aviator jacket and basic scoop neck tank accompanied by the tattooed body stocking. Other garments that lit up the runway included fringed ponchos, plaid shirts, cape coats and voluminous billowy maxis reminiscent of Tom Ford's days at the helm of YSL.

By Courtney Jones.

Jayson Brunsdon A/W 2015

Jayson Brunsdon A/W 2015

Australian design virtuoso, Jayson Brunsdon produced a jubilant line up aptly titled 'GLAM' for his A/W 2015 collection.  The seventies decade was prevalent as Brunsdon delved into the realms of Pop Art sensation Andy Warhol for inspiration. Other influences included rock goddess Debbie Harry and pop sensation David Bowie. Brunsdon fused the iconic personalities with the sensuality of French fashion photographer Guy Bourdin's work, resulting in a collection oozing with empowerment and impeccable glamour.

Standouts included the 'Ziggy Jumpsuit' which featured racer front neckline with raven collar and opulent brocade bodice in sumptuous shades of orchid, aqua, cinnamon, ebony, mint and silver. The jumpsuit was nipped in at the waist to reveal high waisted trousers in languid proportions. The look was complete with silver centre plunge zipper and brocade detailing on hip pockets, a dapper accession.

Music idol Blondie played muse to the 'Glitter Rock Jacket' in opalescent silver and black. A boxy, modern day tuxedo jacket bursting with androgyny which was perfect for the rock renegade and a surefire scintillating addition to the wardrobe. A liquid silk fringed scarf accompanied the silk 'Cabaret Shirt'. The shirt was worn unbuttoned coquettishly for a look brimming with allure and insouciance. High waisted black and silver flecked trousers in relaxed proportions featured ice silver waistband detail which concluded the look.

Release your inner disco diva with the halter plunge mini dress. An effervescent party pleaser complete with lustrous silver sequin skirt grazing the upper thigh complemented by a black cummerbund attenuating the waist. A disco ball is mandatory! An iridescent gold sequin version featured short sleeve detail for those wishing for slightly more coverage.

Ostentation reigned supreme on a powder pink 'David Bowie Stole'. A bourgeois accessory and the epitome of all things lavish. Brunsdon teamed the stole to the 'Razor Blade Skirt'which starred in tomato red with asymmetrical stem hem. A cropped, round neck 'Psychedelic Top' featured floral brocade panelling with a distinct oriental twist. Oriental influences continued to dominate on the 'Bianca Gown', a striking, one shouldered evening dress complete with gold floral panelling creating a trompe loeil effect. A provocative thigh split made for a high voltage finish.

Textural mash-ups, in clashing fabrics worked harmoniously together to create a bold statement. A graphic, fuchsia and ebony skinny ribbed knit was married to the 'Glam Rock Pant' in magenta, copper, black and gold flared trousers. An opulent leopard fur stole worn casually over shoulders exuded lavishness.

Polished perfection ruled on the double breasted, above the knee 'The New York Dolls Coat' which emerged in medium bleached denim. Leopard fur adorned the cuffs and collar adding prestige to the equation. Denim lent a modern edge to the garment which had mod-squad connotations.

A ravishing collection delivered with magnetism and conviction. Stylish majesty produced by design king Jayson Brunsdon yet again.

Jayson Brunsdon is available at MYER stores nationally including the Designer Collection, Black Label Collection and Home Collection.

By Courtney Jones.