SAINT LAURENT SPRING 2016

SAINT LAURENT SPRING 2016

Designer Hedi Slimane of cult label Saint Laurent produced a Spring 2016 collection replete with 90s grunge elements. Vintage inspired finds brimming with rock n roll bohemia were the hallmark features of the deconstructed glam collection.

Model Steffi Soede opened the show in a liquid mercury hued slip dress. The body baring number featured a scintillating, plunging decolletage and provocative thigh split. A jewelled tiara sat low on the forehead and screamed of rock rebellion. Tomato red, patent stilettos featured a spindly heel, thin ankle strap and a cluster of fine red leather strips across the toes.

A fox fur, long line gilet starred in shades of vanilla, fudge and chocolate. A barely there, sheer slip dress with ruffled, scoop neckline accompanied the vest and featured a bead encrusted floral pattern. Black briefs were teamed underneath for modesty. Waxed ebony wellies completed the look. Lingerie as outerwear continued to be very much in attendance and frequented a gossamer, scalloped lace, slip dress. Dark glamour reigned supreme with raven floral applique gracing the gothic slip. A white, leather, shrunken moto jacket brimmed with "Don't mess with me!" attitude. A fearless combination evoking a strong rocker mood.

A bold display of exhibitionism dominated on a rouleau strap, liberated mesh mini. The transparent, suggestive dress was paired to jewel embellished briefs and a feather chubby. A daring combination bursting with the elixir of youth. Saint Laurent muse, Grace Hartzel took to the runway in an oversized, relaxed camo print jacket. The jacket was twinned to a deep decolletage, scintillating gold mini dress. A bejewelled tiara highlighted Hartzel's cascading auburn locks. A Glastonbury worthy outfit for music revellers aplenty.

British model Sam Rollinson modelled a kitsch, exotic, lion emblazoned bomber jacket in the shade of storm blue. A fishnet body con slip was layered to a v-neck sparkling sequin dress. Fine gold and silver chains adorned the neck and military green Wellingtons concluded the look.

A floaty, feminine, floral maxi starred in peaches and cream. Puff sleeves, keyhole and drawstring tie added a poetic edge. A matte paillette gold cardigan was teamed to the dress and worn off the shoulder for a nonchalant approach.

A shimmering, bias cut, silver slip dress ignited the runway and was paired to a textural shag overcoat in a kaleidoscope of colour.

Anarchy ruled on a neo-romantic evening dress comprising of silk chiffon and embroidered flowers in the dark gothic glam shade of raven. Ruching swathed the torso and a thigh split added the va va voom factor. A black and white, monochromatic, plumage flecked chubby added volume to the sensual number.

The collection closed with a series of silk charmeuse eveningwear looks in black and golden alabaster. Styles included bias cut, floor sweeping gowns with plunging necklines and delicate rouleau straps; after dark elegance with sexy silhouettes throughout.

A collection rich in youth culture, an attainable look for those with a penchant for all things eclectic and a spare past time of trawling through vintage stores and market stalls for that highly elusive fashion find. Think a heady mix of petticoat dresses married to your favourite faux fur chubby.

By Courtney Jones.

ROBERTO CAVALLI SPRING 2016

ROBERTO CAVALLI SPRING 2016

For Creative Director Peter Dundas' first official collection at the helm of Roberto Cavalli, Dundas delved deep into the eighties decade with a jubilant display replete with liberated, sizzling garments with the hallmark features Cavalli is famed for. While other designers showcased 90s dominated looks Dundas opened the multi faceted collection with an array of sweet sorbet hued garments including an apricot, oversized full length, canvas trench which was paired to a ballet pink, cropped, leather shell and highwaisted utilitarian khaki shorts complete with asymmetrical zips and perforated black leather waist cincher. Terracotta suede boots cut low on the ankle featured tie suede detail. A single gold diamond shape earring was finalised with gold thread grazing the collarbone of model Greta Varlese. 

Maartje Verhoef took to the runway in a boxy, powder puff blue muted tee worn tucked into an ebony, a-line, leather mini. A floor sweeping frilled train was layered to the skirt which was a flamboyant inclusion.

An electric scarlet and burnt orange bomber jacket starred in a monochromatic floral and fauna print. The bold addition was paired to a fairy floss, strapless, ruched, tiered mini dress with diaphanous train. Saccharine lavender booties completed the look. A striking lustrous citrine version was married to a bronze, tapestry, tuxedo jacket steeped in Italian decadence emblazoned with lion motifs throughout. 

A showstopping colossal sized bow highlighted an alabaster, one shouldered, silk crop top. Eighties powerhouse connotations reigned supreme. Highwaisted, 7/8, denim jeans were embellished with fine beaded thread fringing, sequins and undulating lace inserts. A python shootie featured an almond toe, double buckle closure and wooden heel.

Russian model Kate Grigorieva modelled a zebra amethyst and black cropped tuxedo jacket adorned with scintillating black beading. A peach body con mini dress was teamed underneath. Cavalli's exotic jungle love affair was still very much in attendance.

A turtleneck, ruched, bandage dress in micro proportions was a textural delight. Zebra, ocelot, snake and nude strips encased Angel Rutledge's torso. A jumbo sized leather bow adorned the right shoulder and fell to the hip. Beaded strips resembling chains added plenty of the bling factor.

A floaty Grecian style mini dress in a watercolour of iced mauve and wild mulberry featured exposed shoulder with ruffled sleeve, asymmetric frill, grommet tiered billowy mini skirt attenuated by a black slimline velvet belt; a fragility with wasp like attitude prevailed.

A ruched lace, strapless bodice was accentuated with a romantic ruffled trimming which graced the decolletage and outer sleeves. The lace up front detail oozed with seductive charm. Blood red slimline waxy leather trousers came complete with wraparound waist with double gold ring detail. A fashion savvy design for the ever confident Cavalli woman.

Catwalk newcomer Romy Schonberger closed the collection in a  pink lemonade, lace up, statement making mini dress. Panelled ruching enveloped the tender, fanciful number. A large ruffle adorned the neckline and sleeves; a contemporary eye catching design bound to get you noticed.

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.

 

ALEXANDER WANG SPRING 2016

ALEXANDER WANG SPRING 2016

Designer Alexander Wang, advocate of all things downtown cool, continued to take the fashion set by storm with his latest spring installment. Nineties grunge looks were street ready with a pulsating energy prevalent throughout. A rebellious streak injected attitude into the collection with tomboy mashups reigning supreme.

Lexi Boling opened the show in a milk hued cropped, scoop neck tank complete with rib panelling and chain strap detail. The navel baring crop was paired to hip hugging dove grey and black candy striped languid trousers. A mahogany crocodile belt sat low on the hips adding opulence to the casual ensemble.

A cobalt leather bomber jacket featured sloping shoulders and white varsity stripes, brimming with sporting references. A white Henley tank accompanied elasticised cornflower blue striped boxer shorts which were layered to distressed denim shorts in ink; an innovative design destined for the model off duty pack. Gargantuan chains festooned ebony platform pool slides. Rivets adorned the perimeter adding an industrial edge.

Military surplus dominated on a khaki, boxy, shrunken, structured jacket. A mesh figure hugging tank was married to generously cut culottes in striped mushroom and raven. Accessories included colossal chain link drop earrings and a mesh baseball cap. Understated utilitarian chic commanding the silhouette.

Urban jungle connotations lingered with Molly Blair modelling an olive full length vest finalised with a raw unfinished hem. The parachute silk was twinned to a mesh overlay. A basic oversized black mesh tank was layered to a grey marle cut-out sports crop and the boxer- denim short combo with built in leather detailing. Caged chrome studded slides amplified the rangy arabesque.

A waxed leather contemporary bustier featured silver strap chain detail. A faded black denim high waisted maxi skirt starred in relaxed proportions. Frayed hem and centre split brimmed with devil may care attitude. An oxblood patent bucket hat and mottled mustard sneakers were the accessory of choice.

A combat green colossal sized parka was embellished with statement making leather fringing. A revealing mesh turtleneck tank featured ribbed lady bug red and black striped neckline. Cropped, 7/8, black wash denim jeans were punctuated with distressed knee detail and fishnet overlay.

Seventies fringing continued to frequent a ninja black, leather embossed, bustier modelled by Alexander Wang favourite, Kasia Struss.  A floor grazing white denim maxi offered monochromatic appeal to the ensemble.

German model Anna Ewers closed the collection in a racer front, cut-away leather maxi dress. Trompe l'oeil effect fringing encompassed the torso, creating feminine allure. Grommets and lace inserts offered a juxtaposition of soft versus sinewy for the neo siren woman with a penchant for all things avant garde.

By Courtney Jones.

Anja Rubik's Model Off Duty Style

 

ANJA RUBIK'S MODEL OFF DUTY STYLE 

Iconic, Polish ubermodel, Anja Rubik is worshipped for not only her catwalk prowess and piercing editorial gaze but for her enviable, nonchalant street style. The catwalk veteran has walked for the likes of Versace, Givenchy, Balmain, Gucci, Chloe, Emilio Pucci, Anthony Vaccarello and Victoria's Secret. She's graced fashion glossies including Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, i-D, Numero and is the Editor in Chief of 25 Magazine.

Rubik is frequently spotted on the streets of New York in her model off duty uniform which comprises of wardrobe staples including thigh grazing leather mini dresses, IRO suede trenches, Giuseppe Zanotti lace up stiletto peep toe booties, rock siren skinny scarves and poetic blouses with a bohemian twist by quintessential French house Chloe.

Look to international designers Zadig and Voltaire, Sandro, Alexander Wang, Rag and Bone and Frame Denim to emulate Rubik's on point, insouciant style. Locally embrace designer fashion labels Bassike for basic tees, Camilla and Marc for tailored blazers, Michael Lo Sordo for feminine tailoring with a masculine edge, Viktoria and Woods for polished minimalistic chic and Watson X Watson for seventies inspired patchwork minis.

You too can attain Rubik's covetable wardrobe with the following key pieces;

1. FOREVER NEW Cassie denim shirt $50

   BALMAIN Moto leather skinny pants $4140

   TABITHA SIMMONS Pace lace up ankle boots $1450

   MCM Stark weekender $1600

2. SAINT LAURENT Washed denim khaki shirt $1010

   ISABEL MARANT Izard twill shorts $340

   RAG AND BONE Harrow boot $650

   ISABEL MARANT Cruz bracelet $240

   VANESSA MOONEY Concho wrap choker $68

   CANNCI Slouch bag $490

3. ROBERTO CAVALLI Silk blouse $650

   POLO RALPH LAUREN Bartly waistcoat $420

   ONE TEASPOON Bonitas denim shorts $99

   VALENTINO Rockstud gladiator sandals $1790

   ANTIK BATIK Tam bucket bag $445

   CHLOE Jersey scarf $270

   RAY BAN Round metal sunglasses $270

 

By Courtney Jones.