This season had so many bold things to say, not least of which was the structured skirt trend. Call it a rehash of Dior’s New Look. Call it a modern twist on a classic silhouette. A resurgence of appreciation for that unique female form, the one that goes in at the waist and out at the hips, a rarity in today’s modern world, was alive and well on the spring runways. Fit and flare skirts, heavy on the flare, have been dancing in my head since September, when spring’s shows sprung. I can’t wait to add a few of 2013’s “new look” pieces to my wardrobe. Vive la difference!
The Structured Skirt
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Light Bright
Creating modernity within a classic shape calls for a new twist on an old form. Pilotto got this dress right. The neon accents and undulating designs on the skirt, not to mention the pockets, make this frock an enviable one indeed.
Image: IMAXtree
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Dark Lady
Sarah Burton has undoubtedly lightened up McQueen's namesake line, but she hasn't forgotten his darkly romantic roots, as shown here in this divine skirt that pairs shape, texture and color accents all in one -- expertly.
Alexander McQueen image: IMAXtree
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The Birdcage
Whatever their critics say, Dolce & Gabbana never lose their sense of humor. Their spring collection was refreshing, different and beautiful all at once. Some pieces felt more couture than ready-to-wear, like this little number.
Image: IMAXtree
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Laser Cut
A simple summer dress should have movement and feel light on your skin for your hottest days and nights. Yet, there's nothing wrong with adding a little shape and artistry into the mix like Claire Waight Keller did for Chloé here. Light as a feather, stiff as a board, juxtaposition at its best.
Image: IMAXtree
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Mint
Chalayan isn't know for wearable collections, per se. He is an artiste. I was surprised to see his spring collection minimally abstract and completely translatable to my wardrobe. This mint skirt is stunning, and pairing it with a boxy button up puts the focus on shape and line.
Image: IMAXtree
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Minimalist
Modest emphasis on the bustline and at the waist, slightly flared skirt, what more could you want for springtime occasions?
Calvin Klein image: IMAXtree
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Frothy
Okay, it's possible you'd want this dress too. The smocked waist makes it ultra wearable, comfortable and flattering. That's not something you can say about every look that saunters down a runway. I, for one, am happy to see this sewing technique take center stage, any woman with curves loves a little give in a garment.
Cacharel image: IMAXtree
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Sorbet
Ice cream and spaceships. The future of picnics everywhere. A stiffened pencil skirt that seems frozen in its own movement, structured and simple. Love.
Burberry image: IMAXtree
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Armor Amour
The apex of my journey into garments with serious shape is this Fendi dress. It bears a relation to the armor trend we saw in the fall, transferring it into spring, and reminding me of so many stars in the sky, visibile away from the city on a summer outdoor expedition.
Image: IMAXtree
