For summer, a sense of cheer

Perhaps it’s the pervasive sense of playfulness that made itself apparent at so many of the shows, but it’s clear to see that summer is more than just saccharinely sweet pastels. At Christopher Kane, gingham and lace offer a cheeky take on ’50s stereotypes, while Basso & Brooke’s electric hues take on a childhood theme in prints splashed against white in crisp cutout hues. In the brush strokes of Nicole Farhi dresses, this kind of playful exuberance is most discernible. As though applied with a lively hand, uneven brush strokes blanketed Farhi dresses and tops in styles that appeared almost childlike in application, rivaling even Eley Kishimoto’s whimsical prints of stars and dots in cheeriness.

Unlike some labels which invested in severity for spring-summer — minimalism was a highlight of many shows — a few designers refused to rein it in for the season and chose to take the high-spirited road. For those of us who enjoy a playful print or two, it’s a sight for sore eyes.