I missed the Paris shows – drat! I think I was travelling or just got back from a splendid voyage, I dare say it’s all a bit of a blur. I know that summer hasn’t even started for some of us, however it’s always good catching a glimpse of the Autumn/Winter collection in advance.   Karl is a trusted purveyor of timeless elegance and sophistication.  The Coco Chanel look is not only making a comeback for work attire, we are also seeing the jackets teamed up with casual/smart jeans at airports and in malls all across Europe. Karl’s new vintage collection comprised of softish and nude pinks (I love these hues), dove grey, oyster tones and even magnolia. There were splashes of charcoal grey, silver and black too.

The girly skirts, wide legged trousers and jackets were an immense treat to the eye; his collection did not disappoint. There was definitely an apparent 1920s inspiration going on.  Whilst scanning through the images Lena Horne came in to my thoughts. Karl manages to cross-cut eras like no other designer, there was definitely a sense of 1950s glamour in there too. Karl must have been eating at Sketch in Conduit St. (London) recently apparently he presented guests with colourful macaroons and scones. I wonder if the tea was good. Us Brits are very picky about the quality of tea. So as you can see this lovely pink, classic boucle Chanel suit has been reworked, there is much emphasis on the belt and the large buttons – buttoned up fronts. Note the higher necks, buttoned up and resolutely knee-length skirts, the tweed is fortunately lightweight which is perfect for a chilly, summer evening in foggy London. The pearlescent nude pink feathery frock adorned with chiffon shoulders is divinely sublime. I like these shoulders. The FashionThirst team were all in agreement about the bold but elegant shoulders. They are loud but still distinctly feminine; pure class. It would be totally awesome to see fashionistas sporting the nude pinks with shimmery silver tights in to their wardrobes. I left these images with a sense and feeling of a collection which was somewhat understated but still powerful in essence.

Now tell me is that a Samsung Galaxy in Karl’s hand or an iPhone ? Also, let me know your thoughts on the colour palettes, cuts/design base and textures used.

Written By Monica Cummings BA Hons .MA