I got my first (and only) Louis Vuitton bag when I was nineteen. I saved and saved, and thanks to timing whereby it was approaching Christmas, I bought myself a Speedy. I loved it and still treasure it as something was essentially my first prudent investment.
Louis Vuitton is a firm celebrity favourite with Michelle Williams being the face and rocking the LV style in an effortless way. And while I believe that pieces like those become your heirlooms, but it's not like a Louis Vuitton piece forms part of my monthly wardrobe purchase.
Even after the departure of Marc Jacobs from his role as Creative Director, the label has avoided a state of flux with the appointment of one Nicolas Ghesquière, formerly of Balenciaga. Nicolas' debut collection will be Autumn Winter and this week we were treated to a preview of the line, in the beautiful surroundings of the RHA Gallery in Dublin.
Bags, shoes, bags, more shoes....Aside from the very fabulous accessories including a box clutch bag, carpet-style tote (Mary Poppins would be so jealous) and the inclusion of soft, sweet pastels in its larger styles, the clothes are what I really want to talk about.
On the catwalk, the sixties vibe was apparent but Nicolas has a beautiful way of injecting his signature into his pieces through exceptional paneling, use of fabrics like suede and leather, as well industrial detailing. But what made this collection stand out for me was how wearable it was.
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He said himself that he wanted to listen to the women around him and determine what they wanted and needed from their clothes. And even though we may not be running to the shops to get our hands on the actual collection, it's one which will certainly inspire us this season.
Clockwise from top left: Bag, New Look, €29.99; Jacket, Dorothy Perkins, €72; PVC Skirt, Penneys, €13; Dress, Penneys, €15 (available from September)The sixties influence is everywhere, through emblems of the era such as monochrome, A-line skirts, knee high boots and combinations such as animal print and bright colours (see New Look post for this one).
And one thing you will notice is the focus on coats and jackets. From leather to wool, coats are a staple of the collection. So if you are thinking about a new coat for this season, look for panels and styles with more shape which cinch you in at the waist.
The prints in the collection move into the seventies and Penneys are channeling this in A-line printed dresses and skirts (check out the PVC one) that can be simply styled with darker colours (try a chunky knit) to bring the look up to date.
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Louis Vuitton are probably more famous for their accessories and we have have found an identical style from New Look in monochrome check - so you see you can get the designer look for less!
What designer looks will you be wearing next season? Inspire us!
