It’s going to be a sweet, feminine summer if the hemlines and draping fabrics at Melbourne Spring Fashion Week are anything to go by.
Bejewelled party frocks, embellished necklines and sequinned fabrics were strutted down the catwalks from the likes of Ellery and Tina Kalivas, proving that femininity and sparkle are well and truly back. Akira, Gwendolynne and Aurelio Costarella shone with floor-length gowns worthy of a grand entrance.
Pieces flowed with layer upon layer of fairytale fabrics. Crinkled cottons, soft leather and bold prints were hard to miss but it seems a contrasting piece is paramount; striking colourful prints matched with nude, coral and blush was rife.
Lisa Ho strutted out coloured prints in pants and skirts, which were toned down by softly structured blouses. Think twice before discarding last season’s belts. Belt it in, belt it up, belts are back.
High-waisted silk capri printed pants, digital print maxi dresses and structured tulip skirts were all broken at the waist by belts and loose fabric ties. So keep the belts, but discard the theory of less is more come summer.
Christine proved it’s all about statement jewellery that overshadows the season’s neutral tones. For a relaxed boho chic look, team weighty Aztec-style neck pieces and brash accessories with a clash of prints.
Importantly, MSFW revealed this season is all about the silhouette.
Skirts, dresses and even pants cling to bottoms, blouses and dresses are pulled in at the waist, and faces and shoulders are accentuated with high necklines and covered backs.
Men can expect relaxed tailoring that celebrates the breadth in their shoulders and length in their legs with slimline suits and playful checked shirts. And really, that’s what spring’s about – a little cheekiness and some bold colour.