Modish Mademoiselle
Elle Fashion’s Spring Summer 2014 offerings will make you go ooh la la.
THEY say never forget your roots. That’s why Elle fashion has decided to return to its French heritage for its new Spring Summer lineup entitled “Elle love Paris”. Instead of repackaging the season’s major trends, the brand – which was first launched in Japan in the early 1980s after the success of Elle magazine – is focused on an eclectic offering, and the result is often fun and flirty.
There are five key themes to feast your eyes upon this season. Paying tribute to a Sixties style is the Mod 60s line, in which black and white collide. The effect, however, is anything but pared down. Adorable details like narrow awning stripes, herringbone or even a scatter of hearts mean the wearer can make a lasting impact, sans the “it” bag.
The Chinoiserie line, meanwhile, is so pretty with its carefree floral dresses in ink wash effects. From blue blooms that evoke a Ming vase to a scatter of delicate petals that adorn the neckline, these outfits are as dreamy as they are feminine. A pleated dress is paired with stacked bangles, while a chunky jade green necklace complements a mid-length halter dress.
Ethnic prints and embellishments are the cornerstone of the Spice Trail line. Reminiscent of a “pleasant exotic holiday getaway”, this range of pants, maxi dresses and blouses are awash in tribal prints and exotic hues like mustard, turmeric and saffron. Throw on a wide-brim hat and cotton scarf, and you’re ready to take on the sundrenched plains of Africa with fullblown panache.
Not all outfits are an exercise in creativity and colour, however. One can’t go wrong with Elle fashion’s Ultramodern line and its minimalist pieces. With its clean silhouette and stripped-down shades, these clothes are not attention-grabbing, but that’s where their sophistication lies. Sporty types will also appreciate the Elle Active line, which features the familiar lycra-based Elle sportswear in a white, black and orange palette.
As any fashionista would know, it’s not just about the clothes. Since last year, Elle fashion has a spotlight on some products within its Women’s Apparel, Lingerie and Accessories lines. The spanking new Elle luggage, for instance, is made from lightweight PC materials and aluminium. Featuring a TSA custom key lock suitable for American, British and Japanese customs and wheels that can revolve 360˚, these suitcases are the perfect accompaniment to your jaunts abroad.
To complete the ultra-chic travel look, the Elle sun-wear collection this season features a delightful array of chic shades inspired by nature and the alluring contours of the female form. We’re talking organic frame structures with feline fronts, polished surfaces and elegant metallic details. Asymmetric tailoring drives square and hexagonal frame fronts, geometric accents or tapered and indented temples.
If there’s a lesson to be learnt from the collection, it’s that it’s OK to buck the occasional fashion trend. After all, the French do it all the time. Just be sure to radiate chic while you’re at it! — Louisa Lim