The beginning of a new age

Experience a whole new style as the summer heat embraces understated chicness in its entire splendor. As style setters warm up the season’s hottest trends, global fashion offers a kaleidoscope escape to a land of bold colours, earthy hues, alluring metals and reinvented neutrals. With more than a handful styles that paraded the Spring-Summer 07 runways, there is a hint of reign in anything tribal, ethnic, dainty, bohemian or safari as seen in the chic collections of Prada, Chloe, Louis Vuitton, Missoni, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Stella McCartney, etc. While the parade of trends basks under the sizzling sun, back to the future rules above all and so is the "to-die-for" sensation. The future is bright for Nicolas Ghesquiere for Balenciaga, Alber Elbaz for Lanvin, Hussein Chalayan, Francisco Costa for Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Burberry and Versace as they take off in robot styles inspired from Robocop, Tron and Terminator. Though the accelerated futuristic appeal is fashion’s most wanted with all the plastics, foils, PVC’s and patents, feminine fabrication is making a comeback statement.

Soft, flowing and easy fabrics with a touch of handiwork rule in various forms, creating a relaxed feel of understated sophistication. The return of the tunic (used by Stefano Pilati of YSL and more than a handful designers), crochet, silk and sheer materials is interpreted in a play of contrasting proportions that evoke an ultra-modern mix of silhouettes. There is an importance in comfort dressing that highlights the essence of movement that’s so fashion-forward.

The variety of looks that this season presents is the new luxury that anyone can afford. The range of designer labels and brands showcases an affordable appeal in comparison to the couture fascination seasons ago that come with escalating price tags. The beginning of a new age that’s "understated" and a movement towards the practicality of dressing is the defining style of tomorrow’s next.

In the local scene, British India is moving fast-forward in style. The label takes a fresh look that is all about the new and relaxed luxury. Floral and botanical prints, a hint of beading, and a variety of trendy hues in flowing fabrication create trendy essentials that are versatile for mix-and-match dressing. The captivating look for summer is a stylish fusion of safari-bohemian that is subdued and void of overstyled theatrics. The line presents a collection of chic pieces for men and women that are functional and practical throughout the day. These of-the-moment ensembles take the label to a whole new level of fab style that’s quite modern, up-to-date and affordable. This is the new luxury.

(E-mail the author at mymultiplechoice@yahoo.com)