Brown Thomas’ Spring/Summer 2020 show encompasses a romantic season integrated with sustainability, a modern take on the utility-style, tropical themes and a nostalgic look into the 70’s and 80’s.
From vibrant pastels in the Exuberant 80’s, to rich lace in Considered Craft and balanced out by the chic neutrals of Clean Future, colour and tone balance is a key focus in the collection.
The minimalistic tones combined with the crisp cut blazers and an overall appreciation for feminine sensibility were proudly showcased in Clean Future.
Loewe and The Row feature subtle textured linear patterns while Bottega Veneta, Jil Sander and Mugler present a soft blend of barely-there nude tones and silk blouses and dresses.
For us the figure-hugging asymmetrical skirts and dresses are a standout feature in this theme!
Is Paradise Island giving us serious wanderlust feelings? Yes. Yes, it is.
It is inspired by exotic destinations such as the French countryside at Dior and the Sicilian jungle at Dolce and Gabbana. Designers Dolce & Gabbana and Dries Van Noten reference botanical prints and jungle themes as a way of evoking escapism. From Amazonian green at Versace to neon brights at Valentino, the collection is a bold, fun approach to summer.
Maxi dresses are a no brainer for SS’20. Paired with a cute sandal or a pair of white trainers the maxi dress is super versatile and wearable!
If you are a fan of a co-ord you might want to pause here for a second. Designers such as Paco Rabanne and Victoria Beckham are paving the way for 70’s elegance in the SS20 collection.
Necklines are the standout factor with pussy-bow blouses, stand-up collars and wrap necks all making an appearance. With less of a focus on the standard counter cultured style of the 60’s/70’s, the collection takes a more wearable approach for both the classic and modern woman.
Moving on a decade, the 80s return in a fun, free-spirited way with Balenciaga’s exaggerated silhouettes and Richard Quinn’s pairing of latex with floral prints.
Oversized silhouettes are cinched at the waist at Balenciaga and Versace and strappy sandals are so fab! For the businesswoman, we are loving Versace’s take on the 80s inspired office silhouette which included tailored shirts and dresses.
Considered Craft brings immaculate lacework and intricate embroideries for SS20 conducted by designers Alexander McQueen and Loewe.
From sheer patterns to clean lace, the details make for a sophisticated yet daring collection. Human connection in the design construction and a traditional approach to workmanship is hugely important for this theme.
Thomas Ferguson, the last remaining demask weaver in Ireland, designed the line for Alexander McQueen’s collection using linen tablecloths. Sarah Burton too was inspired by the Irish weaver as draped asymmetric ivory crochet dresses and decorative embroidered Irish lace were showcased.
The relaxed utility style is fused with modern inspiration on Bottega Veneta’s runway and in Prada’s Resort collection.
Spectacularly detailed cotton dresses alongside utility-inspired shirts were on display. The multi-functional and easy to wear aspect is introduced by oversized pockets and hardware details combined with fluid dresses and laid-back silhouettes.
Key colours in this season are showcased in Modern Utility with warm orange belts, powder blue sandals and vivid green handbags.
Neo Victoriana continues the traditional feminine aesthetic with deep flounces and ruffles which can best be seen at Erdem and new brand Khaite and adds a modern touch with maximalist proportions applied to sleeves and skirts.
Supple silhouettes, tulle skirts and puff sleeves collaborate in sculpting the female form. Dries Van Noten encompasses the puff sleeve on original jacquard and incorporates a sustainable element into the collection with recycled taffeta.
Words: Alannah Hanley