IMAGE Spring Summer 2017: Part Two

By IMAGE
14th Mar 2017

If ever there was a spring/summer season likely to appeal to Irish women, 2017 is it. Designers took a refreshingly pragmatic approach, creating clothes that are both stunning and serviceable. Shirtdresses, cropped pants and elegant sportswear all speak to women with multiple roles to play, from mother to mentor. The warm, rich colour palette of earthy terracottas and electric blues will appeal too, bringing depth and character to whitewashed pastels.

PRETTY PUNKS

Traditionally sweet florals were toughened up at Loewe, Balenciaga and House of Holland as designers played with our perception of lush botanicals and ditsy daisy prints. Leather trims, studded accessories and black Addams Family-like lace gave botanicals a real-world grittiness perfect for women who don’t mess about. Pink is fine, but only if it’s punctuated with a sturdy buckle, overlong laces or a fierce-looking choker – see Fendi for inspiration.

FASHION DIRECTOR MARIE KELLY’S TIP

Loewe’s interpretation of punky florals is ideal for women who want outright sophistication. Pair a midi skirt with a simple T-shirt, then add a chain-handled handbag and flat boots for some urban influence.

MODERN TRENCHES

Designers didn’t try to reinvent the wheel this season, but they did elevate an old classic into a contemporary favourite. Simone Rocha’s trench was one of the freshest, with its slashed sleeves tied with pretty bows, while Michael Kors played with hemlines, presenting trenches with a kind of skirt-effect. Bottega Veneta went retro with a double-breasted version, beautifully worn on the runway by the iconic Lauren Hutton.

FASHION DIRECTOR MARIE KELLY’S TIP

The trick to wearing a trench coat well is choosing a length that works for your frame. Maison Margiela chose a knee- length finish, ideal for petite shapes, while Creatures of the Wind went full-length for the taller women among us.

?This article originally appeared in the March issue of IMAGE magazine. For more on our Fashion Director Marie Kelly’s guide to Spring Summer 2017, check out the current issue of IMAGE magazine, on shelves nationwide now.