spring forward
G.V.G.V. has recently emerged as one of my favorite lines, with consistently classy and trendy pieces that I’d wear in a heartbeat. The 2012 spring show‘s ladylike shapes, clean lines, and subtle ’50s vibes were no exception, and Tokyo-based designer Mug has once again turned out an easily accessible and effortless collection. I was particularly taken with the Monstera leaf motif, and its pairing with off-white, buttery leather, and leopard-print was spot on; no pun intended!
However, since it’s a little too chilly to be thinking of lightweight fabrics (and Polynesian patterns are sparse), I’ve compiled some chic cosmetics and accessories with the same elegance, ease, and slight retro quality that will liven up any winter’s day. Though I’d rather bundle up and sip on hot chocolate at the moment, I can’t help but dream of tropical treats, floaty skirts, and perfect pastels to complement summer days and warm, starry nights.
a flurry of prominent pastels
Jill Stuart’s color-blocked confections brought sweetness and youthful nostalgia to the catwalk, overflowing with the distinct femininity for which the brand is renowned. The apparel featured sleek, free-flowing silhouettes that oozed stylish sensibility for warm weather. Sensual dresses, separates, and a smattering of lightweight coats floated in soft pink, peachy tan, lemon chiffon, and muted turquoise, with injections of creamy coral and vermillion orange for good measure.
Though Easter came early with sheer fabrics, tea party frocks, and watercolor prints, the fresh sensation of spring moved far past the April holiday and straight into a suburban summer. Not only were the palm trees—large, small, and graphic—a hint, but the cropped pants and above-the-knee scalloped skirts had staying power.
Accessories were kept to a minimum with skinny belts, oversized clutches, and glimmering platform heels. Adorning details manifested elsewhere, such as in collars, sashes, delicate stitching, and textile choices. A quilted, sateen-like fabric reminiscent of old slippery couches found its way onto an assortment of jackets and dresses, but the pieces’ simple shapes hoisted themselves out of the trailer park and back onto the stage.
And if tucks, pleats, and the occasional paper-bag waist strike you as unnecessary jejune frill, fear not. Stuart disseminated a ladylike quality throughout her cotton-candy collection, creating a dream-like vision of freshly cut lawns, torrid love affairs, and sophistication.
alexis bittar resort 2012
Collage is my favorite medium to work with, so when I saw this Alexis Bittar campaign I was absolutely blown away. Cross-laden baubles, neon bangles, and shiny S&M-inspired chokers and cuffs are juxtaposed with black and white photos, made-up mannequins and picturesque imagery. It doesn’t feel overdone or overworked; it’s simple and colorful in all the right places, with interesting compositions that draw the eye.
