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 colors, prints and shapes of Mexico were a touchpoint for several designers this season, whether explicitly stated in show notes or inferred in a monkey print or a bit of serape striping. The reference shows itself in palm trees, embroidered florals, ball-fringe borders and folkloric motifs, all reinterpreted in a non-literal, modern way. White cotton eyelet brings freshness to the mix, and touches of black provide a nice contrast to pales or brights. The full skirt is a key element here, hitting anywhere from knee to ankle, and best cinched with a wide belt.
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.
It was fitting that the Queen, with her famous love of scarves, was in the front row at Richard Quinn’s show. Quinn, the first recipient of Her Majesty’s British Design Award, seemed to use scarves as a starting point for his mix of florals and baroque curlicues; most of these madcap ensembles were complete with a silk square tied under the chin, babushka-style. Several other designers used scarves as accessories or as design elements — like a flowing panel on a tailored shirt or border-printed pajama sets.
Washed-out colors and ombré blurs provide a gentle artisanal mood for Fall. Bleached surfaces, dip-dyes, tie-dyes, acid-washed pigments and painted effects are used for everything from sturdy cotton outerwear and denim to over-dyed plaids and delicate silk lounge pants. There are even floral motifs printed in a tonal palette to give a “faux” dip-dye look.
Textured tweeds are showing up all over Pre-Fall. Nubbly yarns and color-flecked weaves work for dresses, suits, outerwear and even pants. Leather-bound edges or frayed raw-cut edges finish. A new generation is drawn to the classic Chanel suit, made young this season with cargo pockets, patent trims, contrast arms or witty printed versions.
