New York, London, Milan, Paris: Chloe Arnold’s Spring/Summer 2014 Trend Report
Whoever said three is the magic number? In fashion everything comes in two. Two seasons (well there’s really four, but who’s counting anyway) of shows, twice a year, showcasing designer’s creations so they can pave their stylish way for us mere mortals to follow suit.
Fashion is full of second chances and styles; a once fallen angel can revive and recover in the blink of a runway’s eye. Trends and outfits of a bygone era are often repeated many years later giving us a second glance at a trend that was once, well, trendy. So what once was uber-cool for your grandmother or mother back in the day is reborn for the next generation – hooray!
So, this piece is not going to be the same old report about the 2014 Spring/Summer fashion weeks from around the globe that have flooded the style bibles. Instead, I have decided to pick two hot topics from each fashion week starting with the Big Apple and finishing at Paris. Let’s talk about our favourite hit topics. It’s as easy as 1, 2…
New York
Victoria Beckham’s collection was showcased in New York
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Victoria Beckham. Well, it’s seems VB is our new NyLon. She has managed to make the transition from Brit icon and become a world class designer giving New Yorkers a run for their money. Her SS14 collection brought us culottes, soft tailoring, monochromes with pops of colour and reminded us that classic simple designs work best for all of us.
2
Kiddie couture is taking over. Alexander Wang’s niece is showing us her rock chick rebellious side giving us parental advisories on how to look cool, which is actually rather intimidating seeing as she is pretty much cooler than most adults. Meanwhile, mini Harper Beckham is showing she’s a daddy’s girl, teaching the FROWER’s a thing or two whilst supporting her mummy’s show.
London
Model of the moment Cara Delevingne
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Cara Delevingne is model of the moment. Her face is on Billboards every where, she’s opening shows and representing Brits with pride across the globe. Her hipster rocker vibe meshed with effortless cool makes her the BFF we wish we all had. CD is rocking our world right now.
2
The Pink Coat. Simon Rocha’s oversized take on the classic tailored double breasted coat jacket was a hit at fashion week and has featured as a major trend for autumn/winter 2013, as well as spring of next year.
Milan
Dolce & Gabbana in Milan
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Dolce & Gabbana still have the Midas touch. They showed the world they are still the kings of opulence and all things OTT by bringing us back to the country’s Roman roots by seeking inspiration from temples and diocese. The goddess of love and beauty ran through my mind showing us that women are truly from Venus. The collection was from another planet and definitely not Mars! Gilded Gold brocade, sexy black lace, the dolce vita archetypal polka dot pencil skirt with a fabulous modern twist. This collection perfectly merged the “classic” with modernity!
2
Moschino celebrated its 30th anniversary showing us a bit of lighthearted relief with a jovial nod and wink at its history. Pat Cleveland dramatically pranced down the catwalk in a look from the first ever Moschino show, a ruffled red dress with paper bag of French loaves and a black stetson. There was such was high posing going on (note to all drag queens who would be put to shame with such a camp performance) making the audience cheer with love and support! Bravo, Bellissimo!
Paris
Chanel’s SS14 Show in Paris
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The words ‘Paris’ and ‘fashion week’ would be incomplete without one iconic word, Chanel. Karl Lagerfeld literally brought us pop art and made the models walking pieces of art. Hints of Warhol with platinum wigs complete with blunt fringe and a dramatic flick complemented the makeup, which seemed like it was taken right off or out of a canvas. With colourful garments and wacky patterns the catwalk was alive with texture and vibrancy. The entire display was reminiscent of something out of the future, a galactic fusion creating an exhibition of modern art.
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After much speculation and rumour, Marc Jacobs and his 16 year stint with Louis Vuitton finally came to an end in an epically fabulous collection. He really went out with a bang and did not disappoint. In fact he left us wanting more, only upping the ante and intrigue for his next solo show next year. Each model wore a beautifully extravagant headpiece designed by Steven Jones complete with delicate showgirl ostrich feathers. With 41 looks in total the collection was slightly luxurious, provocative and – as only Jacobs can – subtly and successfully edgy. The softness of beads, crystals, and glossy feathers with the added embellished biker jackets, denim and unisex blazers. Magnifique!
16 years came to an end, but Marc Jacobs left us wanting more
