WOMENSWEAR SS2016: Give the cold shoulder

Forget about the cropped top, by now it’s basically fashion road kill. But its substitute will kill it just as much. We’re talking the off-shoulder tops. There’s no doubt about it: shoulders are THE erogenous zone for this summer. They always look good and we don’t have to train them like our abs (thank god!). Just put some illuminating (tanning) lotion on your clavicles and anyone can pull of that supermodel-over-the-shoulder-look (or brush her shoulders off like Jay-Z).

The off-shoulder is not just a trend, but a real wardrobe essential. Ever since the 1840s fashion is characterised by low and sloping shoulders. But today’s version has it roots especially from the French riviera style. French icon Brigitte Bardot, who owned this look during the 1960s, wearing off-the-shoulder tops with everything from midi skirts to pants. And let’s not forget about Jane Birkin. A jeans and simple top never looked this good. It’s flirty and fun, all the while hiding your armpits (what else could you ask for?!) And it comes in many variations. From elegant strapless items to ruffled one-shouldered tops and dresses or tight cut-out pieces, there are plenty of ways to work this trend. Team it up with a cool pair of boyfriend jeans, culottes or suede A-line skirt for a grown-up 70s vibe. Here’s how to wear the key pieces.

WOMENSWEAR SS2016: Bailamos!

The ruffled off shoulder top is without a doubt the fashion piece most worn by fashion professionals. Just have a glance at your Instagram and you know what’s up. A top that perfectly fits in with the bigger latina style trend of this summer. Ruffles and volants all over. In the mix with sexy legs, cropped tops and long lengths. The colors of choice? Shades of red, pink and orange; colors that communicate passion. ‘Cause that’s what a Latina is all about. She speaks from the heart when she dresses up in that red skirt en white Tee (Blugirl). When she rocks that bright orange bodycon dress (Balmain) it’s pure passion. Latina bonita. A sexy open heel, flower in the hair and she’s out for night. Duele El Corazon by Enrique on repeat, bailamos!

ROUND UP MILAN MENSWEAR SS2017

Knock knock! Who is it? The most stylish man in Italy. And he’s wearing everything you need to know (and want to have) for coming season. Cause it’s Men’s Fashion Week (yes, we cheer for that!!) There’s an entire man squad making its way through Milano right now looking better than ever. And what can we say: this will make you want to update your closet sooner than later. Time to round up the 8 strongest looks from the catwalks.

Wether you go on a hiking trip, a walking tour, on safari or exploring a city, make you sure you look as fine as our Milanese men right here. The outdoor trend is presumably started by Versace. You no longer have to be ashamed wearing nylon zip-ups, backpacks, athletic leggings and a good ‘crocodile hunter’ hat. That’s the way to go. Also seen at: Moncler, Prada.

Three’s a trend: enter the modern journeymen. The idea that traveling is all about comfort and ease, no, we’re not taking it anymore. You have to look good while exploring the world, and that’s even possible in a suit. And how obvious can it be with Prada shirts covered with hand-drawn symbols of world travels. You better book that ticket fast. Also seen at:  Missoni, Marni.

Just like last season, blue is still the rage. And we’re not just meaning blue, but REAL eye catching cobalt blue. It’s one of the strongest and coolest colours for men, but it’s up to you how to dispense it. If you want to go all the way, your permission lays here in Milano. Just ask Salvatore Ferragamo, Valentino, Vivienne Westwood or Dsquared.

Definitely not just a trend for the ladies, but also the gents got tied up this time. And the proof is here in front of you: Versace, Valentino, Ferragamo, and Fendi all showed men wearing tailored coats and jackets with a cinched waist.

What makes the man? Definitely the suit. What makes a dandy? Same answer. But that doesn’t mean the definition of smart tailoring isn’t fluid. And if you thought so, now you know it’s not. And it’s more clear than ever. The chapter of the art of proportions isn’t finished yet. We still got some pages to turn. The interplay of tailoring, sports and casualwear is rebalancing, playing with new proportions, streamlined details and well-defined shapes. Seen at: Sisters by Sibling, Jil Sander, Marni.

It may not rain that often in Milan, but we spotted a lot of raincoats on the catwalk. Showing you the best gear to ride out the storm and survive the rainy days or quick showers after a hot summer day. Make sure you have a light weighted parka or flashy (silver) raincoat by hand as your perfect battle armour.Seen at: Prada, Versace.

One of the most talked about words in 2015 was ‘gender’, or better said: gender fluidity. Something that not only started by celebs like Kristen Steward and Miley Cyrus, but also the fashion industry is one of the biggest players in this game changing development. And it shows again this season, with men wearing female-considered items like furry coats, flower print jackets and glitter tops.
Seen at: Dsquared, Fendi, Diesel by Gold.

The billion dollar fashion industry may be quite serious on the financial front, but let’s not forget it’s mostly about the fun wearing the clothes. Otherwise the designers will help remind you this. Seen at:  Dolce&Gabbana, Dsquared.

MENSWEAR SS2016: Sandal? You mean the ‘mandal’!

If we ask you what makes the man? It’s the beard. The masculinity. The lower voice. Perhaps his rough jeans and feel for casualty. But hell to the no this will include socks in sandals. Dark sartorial times. They don’t call it ‘the sad-dad’ look for nothing, folks. It’s actually number 1,2 ánd 3 on the list of ‘don’t ever try this at home’. Until there was this very handsome person named David Beckham (actually the Pope was first, but hey, let’s keep it interesting shall we) who wore his white sport socks (yikes!) in his white Adidas slippers (more yikes!). And all of sudden it got the cool-factor and it became a huge fashion statement. And with even The Biebs and lovely ladies like Rita Ora, Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen and Elle Fanning stepping out in them, it was only a matter of time before it was socially accepted.

The funny thing is, the sandal remains summer’s most divisive and unlikely trend for men. You may now be shaking your head grimly, but the good thing is, though, this time we’re talking proper leather sandals here (the so called ‘mandal’), not those cheap rubber flip-flops. And a bunch of heavy weight designers is showing you how to wear it, everyone from Gucci, Versace, Michael Kors, Marni, Kenzo and Maison Margiela. Most times it’s teamed up with a smart and tailored look, which is even more surprising. But let’s not forget: Fashion is not only here to make you feel more confident, but also to take you out of your comfortzone. One warning: Choose wisely. Tanned legs are a must. Thin socks and stylish sandals make sure you don’t cross the fine line between Beckham-sexy and lost German tourist.

MENSWEAR TREND ss2016: Legs on Display

Attention fit guys, it’s time to put those legs to work. Short shorts are all the rage according to hot labels Dries van Noten, Louis Vuitton and Gucci. So let’s raise those hemlines (and raise a glass to it)! Now there are loads of options. You can go super short (hot pants-y) in tie die denim (as seen at Gucci). Sophisticated in a silky smooth Marilyn Monroe printed version (by Dries van Noten) or banana printed co-ord (by Louis Vuitton). Cheerful in multi colored checks (Missoni-style) or tough in a leather on leather ensemble (by Prada). Business chic in a pleated, woolen number (without that checked handkerchief on your head) like Raf Simons suggested. Or patchwork chic as shows by Junya Watanabe. Leave little to the imagination in a loincloth designed by Vivienne Westwood or opt for shorts that appear like skirts covered with Jesus portrait hyped by Givenchy. Whether rolled up, tucked in, hand cut or gracefully draped; your shorts are bound to make the style statement this season. Kanye’s ‘all chest no legs’ doesn’t apply here. Reveal at the bottom, cover up at the top. Time to hit the gym and work on those (sexy) legs!

P.S. for those who prefer a little more cover up we’ve prepared a trend report on longer shorts including the likes of Balmain, Etro and Dolce & Gabbana. Read it here Just Drop It. (You’re welcome).

MENSWEAR SS2016: Keep your hat up

Dear men, we finally have the perfect excuse for you to tell your girlfriend why you’re still wearing your hat (and no, you’re not a boy anymore and yes, you’re a very mature man). This trend may please and excite a lot of men who already wear hats as their daily signature (do we hear some cheering in the background?!). Hats and caps play a massive part for this spring/summer, being featured in the major shows like Ferragamo, Versace, Gucci, Calvin Klein, Balmain, Saint Laurent and Fendi. They’re the finishing touch to any outfit and nowadays can compliment almost every guy and every look, wether is smart, casual or sporty.

We checked off the funny trucker hat from Saint Laurent and the baret style at Gucci and Emporio Armani. But it’s the curved-brim baseball cap that takes the cake, coming in all coloures and more importantly in premium materials. The most on-point examples are made from leather and wool. And this is what makes it suitable for almost any look, not only when you the sporty slash streetwear kind of guy. We’re talking the new luxurious sport look here. The conventional distinction between ‘the streets’ and high fashion designers is crumbling, the two worlds are actually melting together, thanks to people like Kanye West, Pharrell and A$AP Rocky (who’s the new face of Dior Homme!). And wearing a good cap is for now definitely a home run for all you fellas out there.

WOMENSWEAR SS16: Unironed business

Don’t like ironing (who does by the way)? We have the best news for you: crumpled fabric is a key detail trend this season (yay!). Yep, it’s hot catwalk material. And that gives you way more time in the morning, sounds good right? A wrinkled dress seems like a huge fashion faux pas, but not if we ask the big boys in fashion. Take your cue from Victoria Beckham, Altuzarra, Thakoon, Rick Owens, Yohji Yamamoto and Givenchy who all decided to lack a little on the ironing part. Even the most delicate, silk (slip)dresses were wrinkled. And we have to admit: it still has this easy breezy elegance you wish for in summer. Going for a casual daytime look? Watch for Victoria Beckham or Altuzarra. Heading out for dinner or a party tonight? Take note from Nina Ricci or Givenchy. Finish it off with some statement accessories and these awesome summer it-shoes, and prepare to dance the night away.

WOMENSWEAR SS2016: Whatever suits you

Forget the conservative skirt suit, secretary chic just got a fancy update for SS2016. Looking office proof was never this interesting and versatile. Plus, we’re finally getting offered more and more options to express our own personal style on the work floor. Suit jackets are worn as a dress (as seen at Emporio Armani and Dior). Sleeveless waist suits are having a moment (as seen at Lanvin and Stella McCartney). Showing your midriff is just fine (according to Dior and Céline). You can opt for a mix of bright colors (as presented by Dries van Noten and Gucci). Stripes and checks make things even more interesting (Miu Miu and Prada proved that). All black is forever (shown by the likes of Dolce & Gabbana, Vandevorst and Altuzarra). You can be a business babe and rock pinstripes at the same time (Versace and Givenchy show you how). Plus worn with a matching snapback that old school tweed (Chanel) skirt suit doesn’t appear that dull anymore. So many ways to stun your colleagues and make office fashion just a little more interesting without looking off. Just find out what suits you and make it work (work, work, work).

 

WOMENSWEAR TREND SS2016: White on white

I’m sure you’ve seen this trend around. Cause one of the most obvious colours for summer is white and it was out there on the catwalk big time. Every year it’s the same story, but in a different way. Do we bother? Absolutely not. White is clean, fresh, pure, airy and perfect for summer. There’s nothing more refreshing than slipping on a white ensemble when the temperatures rise. As Dior’s creative director Raf Simons explained his collection with the words ‘femininity, fragility and sensitivity without sacrificing strength’, white is your your best compagnon. And doesn’t it feel great embracing summer in a white slip dress or white off shoulder top? It’s like putting together the two most important ingredients for your perfect summer pie. So let’s start baking, gal’!

Let’s rest our fashionable kitchen with the most fine pieces we spotted so far. On our wish list is almost every designer’s white ensemble, from Victoria Beckhams slip dress version, Veronique Branquinho’s see through ruffled dress, Balmain’s body hugging dresses, Dior’s romantic transparant cropped tops, Ferragamo’s midi-length sundress in lofty cotton and Chanel even makes us wanna wear a coat in summer (crazy right, but gotta give it a go!). The main thing is: it doesn’t really matter what kind of white you’re wearing, but how you wear it.

What are your thoughts on white for summer?

WOMENSWEAR SS2016: Tie the knot

Around you head, in your hair, tied around your ponytail, attached to the shoulder straps of your hand bag, around your wrist, in front of your mouth (Burning Man style) as a belt through your Levi’s 501 jeans and of course around your neck (which offers you a ton of extra variations); no accessory as versatile as the scarf. And this season you’re able to rock all of the styles above and look right on trend. Pick a silky scarf, preferably a brightly colored one, like Dolce & Gabbana presented in their show, and just look for your favorite way to wear it. Instant summer feeling guaranteed! Plus, it’s the easiest way to effortlessly turn your SS2016 outfit up a notch or accessorize your messy beach hair. We simply love the choker chic style we saw at Dior. But Bottega Veneta too made it’s models look super cool with their double tied scarves. At Emporio Armani we were presented with a more classic style and both Gucci and Lanvin went for the scarf turned bow kind of glam. Have your pick and tie the knot.

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