Nothing captures resort informality better than a billowy dress. For next season, designers propose effortless smocks and frocks in delicate shades of white and ecru, adding an unbleached purity to the look. Scarf-tie necks, drop shoulder seams and side slits provide even more ease, and crochet-doily appliqués add dimension. Silhouettes range from shirtdresses to caftans, and lengths go from midi to maxi. The look can be achieved with 2-piece sets as well.
Gingham always comes around for Resort and Spring, but this time the newness is in the scale and the attitude. Rather than sweet little checks for flouncy Bardot dresses, the new checks are bigger and bolder, and are used for stronger silhouettes. There are slouchy gingham pantsuits and oversized checks for camp shirts, knit dresses and slubby sweater sets. The pattern is used head-to-toe or mixed with florals. Our favorite mismatch is the juxtaposition of gingham with checkerboard, an approach that brings out the graphic quality of this timeless warm-weather motif.
Nothing captures resort informality better than a billowy dress. For next season, designers propose effortless smocks and frocks in delicate shades of white and ecru, adding an unbleached purity to the look. Scarf-tie necks, drop shoulder seams and side slits provide even more ease, and crochet-doily appliqués add dimension. Silhouettes range from shirtdresses to caftans, and lengths go from midi to maxi. The look can be achieved with 2-piece sets as well.
The padded scarf has been edging its way onto runways for a few years, but this season it seems to be taking hold. There are rich jacquard versions, floral prints, leopard patterns and reversible solids. Some take the shape of a shawl (like a tiny portable duvet) or a shawl-jacket hybrid. Embellishments include fringed edges, toggle drawstrings, or pyramid-shaped brass studs.
Warm shades of Burgundy and Bordeaux emerge as a fresh alternative to classic navy. Much like the universal dark blue, these wine tones are an understated way to wear head-to-toe monochrome color. Tints vary from garnet to plum, and look especially fresh in tonal layers or paired in floral motifs.