The Darling Buds Of Spring
A Modern Floral Romance
While florals may be a perennial trend for Spring, designers have revisited these beautiful blooms with intricate intensity and darkly seductive grown-up allure.
Petals can pack a punch. From oversized buds to mismatched florals, the Spring / Summer 2012 runways offered a delightful ‘bunch’ of unexpected prints and textures.
Mismatched floral prints screamed of offbeat beauty at Mary Katrantzou; while at Christopher Kane flowery organza shift dresses and coats were the epitome of feminine chic.
However, for a darker romanticism, floral prints went monochromatic at Valentino, Dries Van Noten and Alexander Wang. While subtler then their colourful counter parts, these prints had a haunting beauty.
Valentino’s black evening gowns with intricate hand-painted floral prints and velvet flower appliqués were bewitchingly beautiful. Falling just above the ankle, the evening gowns had a dark folkloric feeling. Of this collection, Pier Paolo Piccioli said: “Fashion is a dream, and in this moment we need dreams.”
This year’s blossoms are truly brilliant…
Will you be ‘blooming beautiful’ in florals for Spring? xx
Photos from style.com
Checkmate
Be inspired by this iconic print in sweet silhouettes for a romantic Summer…
Channel the darling 50’s loveliness of Betty Draper and Lucille Ball in ‘pretty picnic’ gingham shirtdresses, sunning suits & even chequered pastel pumps.
From Jil Sander to Rochas, Tommy Hilfiger and more, the Spring / Summer 2011 collections were filled with pretty ginghams and sweet poplin pieces perfect for whimsical Summer dressing.
Adding a touch of ‘country club’ polish to your look, checks evoke an innocent yet sweetly seductive appeal. Interpreted in fresh, modern ways on the runway, checks in delightful pastel tones have a fresh yet nostalgic touch.
Will you call ‘checkmate’ on Summer dressing? xx
Photos from style.com
Bright Pants
Vivid coloured blossoms, bold prints and artistic patterns are truly enchanting – especially on trousers. This season both on and off the catwalks, printed trousers have become the go-to for effortlessly chic dressing.
Making an appearance during the Autumn / Winter 2011 shows (from Jean Paul Gaultier to Dries Van Noten); printed pants went on to hit a catwalk high note for Spring. From Isabel Marant to DVF, Paul & Joe and more; printed trousers struck a pose with panache.
Banish your thoughts of ghastly prints in oversized unflattering shapes – this trend is all about modern polished elegance. With a focus on clean lines and refined cuts, printed trousers in sharp silhouettes look nonchalantly cool yet surprising elegant. Tailored cigarette pants or capris (finishing just above or on the ankle) should be well-fitted for ‘glamorous,jet-setting style’ (a la Isabel Marant). While wide palazzo pants (as seen at Paul & Joe) or silk wide-leg harem styles (from Diane von Furstenberg) are equally alluring.
Wear with a crisp white shirt for fresh sophistication or highlight a tone from the print with a simple, relaxed tee. A loose silk blouse in a neutral shade will also look beautiful.
From effeminate watercolour splashes to intense tribal prints – luxe shapes in exquisite colour is a Spring focal point.
Will you go bold in printed trousers? xx
Photos from style.com
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