resort 2011 favorites & reviews, part II.

Resort 2011, Part I.

{ click on collage to enlarge! }

Burberry Prorsum | I’m a massive fan of Burberry Prorsum since Christopher Bailey’s induction as the chief creative director. I may or may not be biased – the decision’s yours – for not only are Burberry trench coats a must-have (and the most beautiful thing ever!), but Mr. Bailey, British accent and all, is incredibly cute. I do love how Burberry has evolved under Bailey, and how Bailey has consummated his vision of British, edgy glamour in a luxury brand.

Burberry Prorsum’s Resort collection was, in my book, the best styled. Without a doubt. Burberry may not always produce the wearable ensembles when taken as a whole, but it is always aesthetically pleasing regardless of the collection season. Impeccable is the word to describe 2011 Resort; from color palette, to layering, to the individual pieces, everything was  p e r f e c t . This is perhaps one in few collections showcased where pieces can be worn individually or incestuously sans the tackiness and fashion-victim-look. I do predict an massive fan base given its marketability, particularly with New Yorkers come late summer/fall. Each piece is beautifully constructed and versatile, translating easily into any wardrobe regardless of season. For example, the jacket in photo six. Super slim, super chic, super sexy. ‘Tis a beauty I’d wear anytime, anywhere from day to night.

Now if I so happened to be a fashion editor with an unfathomable bank account/money tree, I would, without a doubt, buy every ensemble I’ve collaged above. I picture the muse of this collection to be that editor-in-chief. A younger Miranda Priestly or Carine Roitfeld whom a million girls would kill to work for (and be!). Edgy, sexy, chic, both in style and personality, and dressed to kill.

{ click on collage to enlarge! }

Chanel | I like how increasingly blasé Chanel has become. I’m surprised at how relaxed this resort collection was – breezy kaftans, bare feet, denim, and tousled hair. Definitely a huge hit with consumers with its marketability and wearability for yachts, beaches, and cruise ships all alike. My favorites are featured above (ph. 1-4). The maxi, printed kaftan Natasha opened with was simply stunning. I never pictured a semi-sheer floral shirt to be attractive on a man, but oh, it is indeed. It’s quite sexy, actually. The third is the perfect summer ensemble, though nothing too special or unique to Chanel: sheer blouse, white pants, and a fedora. And that bathing suit and bejeweled foot adornment; it’s the epitome of Chanel luxury. Now the question is: are Chanel’s foot chains the next body chains? Hm… (ph. 1, 2, 3, 4)

Donna Karan | Languid, liquid assets fit for the sensual Greek goddesses of modern times. It’s undeniably a beautiful collection, but nothing noteworthy in comparison to her spring collections. (Don’t get me wrong: I love, and appreciate, a designer with a consistent aesthetic and vision.) The white, slate blue-gray, and black color palette was lovely in variations of Donna Karan’s signature silhouettes. Goddess dresses were done in every which way combination of the deeply cowled, one-shouldered, open-slit paragon. Satin jersey or liquid lamé, knee-length or floor-length. All are red carpet worthy (it’s simply a matter of who wears which piece first!). And that black jumpsuit (ph. 7)! I do believe Donna Karan’s perfected the art of the jumpsuit. Le sigh. It is the epitome of what DK stands for: all woman, sophisticated, sensual, with the slightest touch androgyny. (ph. 5, 6, 7)

Doo.Ri | For me, Doo.Ri has always been either brilliant or bland. Resort 2011 was one of those brilliant ones whose concept centered about the juxtaposition of draping and structure, and silhouette was lean and straight. The asymmetrical neckline and draping were key elements, used repetitively in nearly every blouse without seeming overused. Each rendition was equally beautiful whether in dress form or a blouse paired with staple pants or bubble skirts. To counter the signature, structural draping, the tuxedo blazer with mesh at the lapels (genius!) added a touch of masculinity for that target goal of balance. (ph. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12)

♥

bisous,

La C.

P.S.: Part III (and perhaps a IV?) coming, toute de suite. Ish.