Key Trends

Back to the Future

Hair: Scraped Back
Beauty: Metallic Moments

Theatrical Romance
Hair: Rags & Ringlets
Beauty: Nude Balm Lip

60s Couture
Hair: On the Fringe
Beauty: Defined Eyes

New Opulence
Hair: So Long
Beauty: Pared Down Perfection

Executive Sport
Hair: Casual Fly-away
Beauty: Healthy Glow
What’s hot and what’s not for S/S’07

In Out
Romance Bondage
Light Neutrals Greys
Jewel brights Sludgy greens/browns
White Black
Silk flowers/floral prints Metal chains/chain prints
Beaded/crystal/floral embellishments Excessive woollen layering
Vintage corsetry Illusionary tailoring
Old fashioned corsetry Fabric hip pads
Boning Suiting
Shiny glossed leather Distressed matt leather
Silver Leather Tartan
Shift dress Machine overalls
White cotton shirt White linen kaftan
Parka Trench coat
Pantaloon Wide leg pants
Wedge heels Knee high boots
Platform sandals Lace-up ankle boots/Brogues
Hand-held clutch Oversized laptop bag
Transparent laboratory glasses Black/White-rimmed spectacles
Nude balm lip Full red lips
Rags, curls and hair rolls Twists and plaits
Headpieces, turbans and corsages Bee-keeper hats/Over-sized hoods
Soft baseball cap Hard riding hat
Introduction

Whether her body is glorified with startlingly futuristic designs, fluffed up with
frivolous rags, frills and intricate embellishments, draped in rich, plain colour
or laid bare by sporty workwear, for S/S’07 the female is presented as a
creative, active and sophisticated being. However, within these key looks lies
a blatant paradox for the woman’s role; that of active, confident and able vs.
vulnerable and ‘shielded’ by artificial armour.

S/S’07 sees references from every decade. There are direct connections
to the trends of S/S’06 and A/W’06, yet ideas presented then are taken to
excess. Tailoring is more complex; embellishments more intricate; colour
brighter, accessories more intricately made; the concept of layering which
began as ‘Pretty Layering’ in S/S’06 is at its most dense. This extreme
complexity reflects the representation of the female herself.

In A/W’06 she was both the hunter and the hunted; clothes portrayed her
as dominant, whilst others revealed (by paradoxically covering up) her
vulnerability. In S/S’07, this reaches new levels. In some cases (Back to the
Future, Theatrical Romance) her clothes serve as a mask to hide behind;
similar to the layering of the ‘Superluxe Vagabond’ in A/W’06. At other times,
clothes serve as an ‘open’ expression of natural confidence and power (New
Opulence, 60s Couture, Executive Sport). Overall, there’s a new sexiness
within these new looks: whereas for A/W’06 every area of flesh was covered
up, this season it’s left bare and golden, with a distinct emphasis on the leg.
The extremes to which these styles are demonstrated take this contrast
beyond a mere changing of the seasons.
Another paradox lies in the areas of hair and make-up. Where fashion is
somewhat false and artificial, hair and make-up serve to enhance the
female’s natural perfection, using dramatic, rich-looking metallic make-up,
super-light, even foundations, soft bronzed glows, and shine sprays or hair
gels on the hair. In contrast with clothing, make-up is about ‘taking it off to
put it on’; less is often more.

Back to the Future

In Back to the Future, the female is portrayed as a real-life robot. Intricate
couture techniques, similar to those of Courreges of the 60s, and Thierry
Mugler and Herve Leger of the 80s, are combined with luxurious modern
fabrics in silver, gold, black and white, to create super-sleek creations which
enhance and glorify her natural curves, acting as a form of modern-day
armour. The resulting silhouette is one of hard-edged structure juxtaposed
with the softness of bare flesh (arms and legs are usually exposed) and
naturalistic metallic make-up. While slightly cold, there is an overall sense that
this outlook on the future is a positive one.

Accessories are equally fascinating: hi-gloss leather bags and dramatic

wedges with obscure heels make for an arresting image. Back to the Future
represents a strong female dominance which replaces last season’s darker,
less sophisticated leather-clad dominatrix; yet it also shows the female as
vulnerable and playing a role - faultlessly. Is it any wonder she needs this
modern armour to protect her body (and mind) from such pressure?
Theatrical Romance
Likewise, Theatrical Romance (an extension of ‘New Structure’ and ‘Lady
Macbeth’ trends, with elements of ‘Pretty Layering’ and ‘Superluxe Vagabond’)
portrays the female as ‘dressing up’ to play a role; this time it’s one of playful
frivolity, yet it has serious, strict undertones. The female curve is enhanced
with modern boning and corsetry; hoop skirts, bustiers and plenty of frills and
ruffles in soft creams and dusty pinks create a feeling of fresh, light-hearted
playfulness. At the same time, austere black governess-style uniforms in the
same dramatic style remind us of the more serious side to the female; it’s not
all ‘play’ for her in these modern times. Whilst she is youthful and independent
in her spirit; she is also burdened and sobered by her responsibilities in life.

60s Couture
This concept of modern-day ‘armour’ appears in the more refined form of
luxurious embellishments in 60s Couture (an elaborate version of the ‘New
Structure’ seen in S/S’06). Where some designers abandoned elaborate
beading, others took it to the max, combining it with a distinctly sexy 60s feel to
create a code of ‘fancy’ dress for the modern working woman. It serves as
another kind of artificial uniform for the powerful female.
New Opulence
In contrast to these complex trends, we also see a new simplicity for
S/S’07. Where excessive layering has pointed toward a new individualism
in the past, this comes in the form of a New Opulence (a continuation from
S/S’06 50s Socialite). Here, a refreshing new use of bright, luxurious colour
represents the female as independent and confident, without the need for
designer logos and excessive accessories. Luxury silks and satins come
neatly tailored in jewel-like colours; surfaces are plain, skin is left natural
and flawless. That, for many designers, is enough.

Executive Sport
Following in this simplistic vein, the ‘Continental Chic’ of S/S’06 and the
‘Dressed For Success’ of A/W’06 returns with a sportier, more youthful edge
as Executive Sport. This serves the working female who seeks quality as
well as practicality in an outfit; luxurious fabrics are used to create soft,
fluid shapes in neutral putty shades. Parkas, shorts, hooded tops and
casual suiting are teamed with chunky wedges and hi-gloss handbags to
create a new laid-back wardrobe for the working woman. The designer logo
(huge in the 80s) creeps in here, appearing on some handbags and t-shirts.
Executive Sport is not so much armour, but a comfortable, open, casual
uniform for the active modern woman.
Back to the Future
1. Fendi 2. Dolce & Gabbana 3. Hussein Chalayan 4. Versace
Space age creations made a huge and very striking appearance on the
catwalk for S/S ’07. The trend symbolizes woman as a conveyor-belt android
or machine. She is masculine, yet sexy and feminine. She’s efficient,
hardened and intelligent – capable of anything; yet simultaneously vulnerable
and insecure, in need of a modern-day coat of armour to protect her from
pressure to be the perfect being she is, ironically, portrayed as being here.
Picture Star Wars’ C-3PO; the edgy, car-like costumes in Bladerunner,
combined with the almost doll-like complexions of the animated characters in
the film A.I., and you get the picture. It’s about achieving technical and
physical perfection.
Back to the Future is a paradox, combining couture techniques of the past
with modern fabrics. There’s a hint of 16th century corsetry here, combined
with the Courreges-inspired bubble shapes of the 60s (a continuation of last
season’s ‘Full Volume’ trend), as well as references to Herve Leger’s 1 2
bandage-style clingy dresses and the sharp curve accentuations of Thierry
Mugler, both of the 80s. Modern fabrics like Perspex, richly glossed/patent
leather and PVC are used to replicate and enhance the female curve.
Metallic silver and gold reign supreme, along with plenty of white, a touch of
black and some deep blue. Chunky cut-out wedges with quirky Perspex heels
feature heavily, along with high-glossed leather bags and laboratory-style
transparent sunglasses.
Hussein Chalayan took the Space Age to its most futuristic limits. Whilst
models wore his outfits, their fabric moved automatically by remote control, so
that each piece transformed itself into another. In one instance, a model’s
entire outfit gradually slid up from the floor into the rim of her hat, leaving her
naked; a symbol of the natural vulnerability and softness that lies under this
sleek, hardened robotic ‘uniform’.
Key designers who went Back to the Future: Hussein Chalayan, Fendi, 3 4
Lanvin, Balenciaga, Gareth Pugh, Givenchy, Preen, Versace
Scraped back

To complement the concept of sleek android perfection, hair is scraped back

as tightly as possible; there are no fly-away ends here. Sometimes the full
head of hair is simply tightened into a neat bun or ponytail and sprayed with
a shining or finishing product; at other times an ‘alien’ or tribal-style top knot
sits on the very top of the head, as seen at Lanvin. Another popular look is
one where hair is scraped back to the scalp with wet-looking gel, then left
long and natural, full of health, bounce and shine.

To recreate the look: Sam McKnight says “We call this the ‘facelift’ chignon; it
pulls the eyes back and up, making the face look younger and tighter. Wash
and condition your hair, then comb it back off the face and apply an anti-frizz
product or light gel depending on your hair type. Blow-dry, brushing the hair
back, then evenly distribute a styling milk or serum onto your hands and
smooth over the hair, pulling it straight back into a pony tail and fixing firmly in 2
place with a good quality ‘hair elastic’.” To get the wet look, McKnight
recommends a gel spray; “Modern technology means products are light so
there’s no reason to over-saturate the hair; use a light hair gel or shine spray
to avoid making the hair look greasy.”

Key products:
Pantene Pro-V Smooth & Sleek Frizz Taming Styling Milk

3
Pantene
Balenciaga 2. Max Pro-V
Mara 3. LanvinIce Shine
1
1.

Ultimate Hold and Shine

HairspraySebastian Originals
Metallic Moments

Metallic gold and silver eye shadows, creams and theatrical paints are used
to bring light to the face, making it seem more robotic-like, yet at the same
time, more natural. It’s a step towards total perfection. Shadows and creams
are usually smudged on top of the lid or loosely around the eye, to contrast
with the sharp, clean lines of the futuristic fashion. Gold powder or pencils
are applied to the cupid’s bow on the lip to add further depth and shine to
the face. In some cases, shimmery gold body cream is also applied to bare
arms and legs, to create a plastic doll-like appearance; as if models have
come off a conveyor belt. Like the intricately tailored fashion of Back to the
Future, metallic make-up serves to create an overall look that screams luxury,
wealth, health and physical perfection.

Interpreting the look: 2

Pat McGrath says, “This look is really about being closer to nature; it’s about
mimicking real, flawless skin. One way to achieve the futuristic effect is to
apply silver or gold eye shadow generously around the eyes, then dab or dust
off with a cotton bud. This gives a smudgy, post-night out appearance. Then,
take the cotton bud and ‘paint’ the remaining powder/cream left on it into the
corner of the eye or along/under the bottom lid. For a really dramatic look, use
glitter eye pencils around the eye lid, or dust with very fine glitter dust. Finish
with thick black mascara for fluttery, feminine lashes. Then dot gold cream
shadow on top of the delicate angular lines of the cupid’s bow
on the lip for added shine and definition.”

Key products:
Max Factor Colour Perfection Duo Eyeshadow in Dawning Gold
Max Factor Earth Spirits Eyeshadow in Inca Bronze
1 3

1. Anna Sui 2. Ralph Lauren 3. Chanel

Back to the Future Summary

Back to the Future represents today’s woman as machine. With sharp

tailoring and modern fabrics, her natural curves are both emphasized
and roboticized. Her scraped back hair and golden face make her
appear almost doll-like, as if off a conveyor belt. She is regarded as
a super-sleek, highly efficient, sexy and intelligent being, who is also
vulnerable and under pressure.
Theatrical Romance

The new Theatrical Romance is inspired by Marie-Antoinette as portrayed

in Sophie Coppola’s film of the same name. It’s a shameless statement of
ostentation; symbolizing a refined luxury, frivolity and playfulness – going
to great lengths to indulge one’s every whim and desire. But underneath
this carefree attitude lies a more sinister connotation: that of a form of modern
day ‘protection’ from outside pressures. Old-fashioned big dresses, skirts,
trousers, shirts and bustier tops are frothed up to the max with ornate frills,
bows, lace and fabric flowers. Rags, strips of wool and elaborate floral
corsages are worn in the hair to emphasize this showy playfulness.
The use of old-fashioned corsetry is key; panier boning on the waist
and shoulder accentuates the female curve and replaces the hip pad
of last season. Fabrics are delicate and luxurious, and always layered to
excess: organza, satin, silk and touches of lace are combined with more
modern materials like stretch cotton, wool and tulle. Intricate embroidery 2
also features.
Colours are consistently soft and neutral; cream, flesh and dusty pink
(inspired by the old-fashioned hook-and-eye underwear of the past) dominate,
whilst some more sombre governess-style black frock coats
and white ruffled shirts linger in the background, as seen at Alexander
McQueen or Yohji Yamamoto; it’s a highly theatrical version of last
season’s tuxedo or working suit. These darker Miss Haversham-style
pieces still exude luxurious elegance and grandeur, but they show the
female as dark, sombre and serious.
Designers who went theatrical: Alexander McQueen, Yohji Yamamoto,
John Galliano, Vivienne Westwood, Louis Vuitton, Commes des Garcons,
Viktor & Rolf
Signature fragrance for Theatrical Romance: Joy by Jean Patou Paris
1 3
1. John Galliano 2. Louis Vuitton 3. Alexander McQueen
Rags & Ringlets

Frivolous embellishments come in the form of rags, flowers, corsages

and bows, all of which are tied onto the hair, at the front, back and sides.
Bunches, rolls and complex chignons are also evident, usually done
with glossy, shiny hair. ‘Curled piles’ on top of the head or around the ear,
along with hanging curls and ringlets create a playful, child-like appearance.
The Rags & Ringlets hair look complements the historical nature of the trend,
and adds to the showy theatricality of it all, whether playful and entertaining or
sombre and serious.

How to recreate the look:

McKnight suggests “You can

create curls and ringlets using 1 3

curling tongs, foam/padded

1. Louis Vuitton 2. Marc by Marc Jacobs 3. Anna Molinari

benders or rollers. Starting from

Nude Balm Lip

This season, vivid red and berry lipsticks are abandoned in favour of nude
balms and lightly tinted glosses in colours like peach, flame and rose.
By simply applying a slick of balm to an already fresh rosy lip, the face
automatically appears healthier and younger. The nude lip is one of the
definitive beauty looks for Spring/Summer, teamed not exclusively with
the Theatrical Romance style but across the majority of fashion trends.
Here, by keeping lips as natural as possible, the excessively theatrical fashion
seems less frivolous, ironically, than it would if it was teamed
with excessive, vivid lipstick.

Interpreting the look:

McGrath suggests “The aim here is to bring the lip up to its natural colour;
a fresh rosy pink. If lips are naturally pink and full, apply a layer of natural
transparent balm. If lips are pale and a little lifeless, apply a natural pink 2
coloured gloss, tissue off, and then cover lips with a slick of balm.”

Key products:
Max Factor Lipfinity Top Coat
Max Factor Lipfinity in Subtle Sienna or Creamy Latte
Max Factor Colour & Gloss in Crystal Bronze or Glazed Caramel

1 3
1. Donna Karan 2. Calvin Klein 3. Celine
Theatrical Romance Summary

Theatrical Romance sees today’s woman at her most frivolous and playful.
Frothy frills and layers add flamboyancy to the look, along with rags, flowers
and corsages in the hair. The nude lip saves the overall appearance from
seeming like a pantomime, and complements the cream and pastel colours
used in the clothing with subtlety.
60s Couture

The 60s shift dress makes a big comeback for S/S’07, and it comes adorned
and encrusted with plenty of rich-looking beads, jewels, ruffles and brooches.
It’s all about retro luxury, with a touch of the Edie Sedgwick/Warhol
Pop Art era to it (as seen with Lanvin’s projection of photographic
portraits on dresses), but with added gloss and decoration. The overall look:
rich opulence combined with youthful sexiness; yet its complete excess
represents a kind of luxury ‘uniform’ for today’s demanding lifestyle.
Tailoring is simplified with this trend, the detail comes in the form of prints and
embellishments. In Back to the Future, we see a strong reference
to Courreges; here, again, his shapes and styles feature but are less
space-age and more vintage-inspired. These 60s couture pieces come
adorned and printed with 70s retro patchwork patterns and paisley prints.
Satin, cotton, silk and organza are combined within each outfit, along with
an array of colour. Tobacco, ochre, brown, purple, white and powder blue 2
are the colours of the day, alongside neon colours from the 80s, such as
tangerine orange, fuchsia pink, lime green and turquoise. Silver, black
patent leather and PVC are also key.
The shift dress becomes the new day-to-evening solution for any working
woman (often worn over a white shirt, as seen at Chloe) and replaces the
wrap-around dress popular last summer. Accessories are just as retro.
There are flat-heeled patent leather sandals adorned with crystals and
beads; super-chunky wedges with cut-out Perspex heels, and office-style
platform T-bars. Coloured Perspex bangles, high gloss belts and bags
complete the look. It’s one of overt, excessive luxury and opulence.
Designers who went 60’s Couture: Chloe, Emilio Pucci, Lanvin, Yves Saint
Laurent, Gucci, Anna Molinari, Karl Lagerfeld
Signature fragrance for 60s Couture: Valentino Rock ‘n’ Rose
1 3
1. Gucci 2. Chloe 3. Lanvin
Geometric Cut

The fringe makes a bold appearance; it’s usually door-step thick and
dramatically choppy. Hair is cut in a jagged fashion to create edgy,
asymmetrical lines around the face, and at the back of the head.
This new geometry complements the quirkiness of the 60s Couture
fashion. It’s a natural, raw jaggedness, as opposed to a rigorously styled
‘hair salon creation’, and is seen in both long and short hair. This look
is somewhat futuristic, yet at the same time, maintains elements of the
styles seen in the 60s. It’s natural and organic, and complements the
artistic nature of the pop-inspired fashion.

How to recreate the look:

McKnight says, “This look is powerful and arresting and can be aggressive
and over-styled. It works with long or short hair; the thicker the better.
2
Hair should be chopped into to create naïve, uneven, angular lines across
the fringe, and around the head. Once the geometric fringe has been cut,
leave it messy and natural or blow-dry the hair smooth and flat, adding
a little mousse to create extra thickness.”

Key products:

1 3
1. Christian Lacroix 2. Fendi 3. Missoni
Pantene Pro-V Smooth & Sleek
Be Sleek MoussePantene Pro-
Defined Eyes

Eyebrows are neatly groomed and ‘filled in’ with small strokes of black and
mink eye pencils. Smudgy black eyeliners and shadows are applied loosely
around the eye to create ‘morning-after’ sexiness. Individual false eyelashes
are applied to the outer corner of the eye for added ‘fluttery’ impact. Lashes
are then coated in volumising mascara. It’s a sexy, modern look which goes
against the immaculate perfection seen in previous seasons created with
liquid eyeliners and obvious ‘spidery’ false lashes; this is softer, warmer and
less articulate. It’s about being laid-back and confident with one’s own natural
features; and with so much embellishment on the 60s Couture clothing,
there’s no need to over-paint the face.

Interpreting the look:

McGrath says “Defined eyes are a huge trend for Spring/Summer and were
seen on the catwalk adapted to suit a variety of different fashion looks. To 2
create a strong smoky eye you need to take it off to put it on. Start with a soft
black pencil eyeliner. Make the line you want and spray lightly with water from
an aerosol can. While the eyeliner is damp, soften the line with a cotton bud
to make it into more of a smudge; do so right to the rim of the eye. Then apply
lashings of volumising mascara to the lashes”.

Key products:
Max Factor Masterpiece MAX mascara in Black or Brown
Max Factor Eyebrow Pencil in Hazel or Ebony
Max Factor Colour Perfection Duo Eyeshadow in Moonshine Meadows

1 3
1. Gucci 2. Karl Lagerfeld 3. Lanvin
60s Couture Summary

Beads, crystals and jewels adorn 60s shifts to create a new vintage couture
with a modern, youthful edge. Patent leather platform shoes and retro
patchwork patterns continue the 60s vibe, along with choppy, edgy fringes
and smudged black eyes and fluttery lashes. It’s a look for day or for night; for
work and play and is, above all, sexy and feminine.
New Opulence

Having been absent for at least four seasons, bright colour – usually in plain,
jewel-like blocks – returns to symbolize a New Opulence; a modern, simplistic
take on the Hollywood golden age. Here, colour becomes a statement by
itself. Where rich embellishments feature in the 60s Couture and Theatrical
Romance trends, there are none to be seen here. Colours are rich and
flamboyant, yet the way in which they are worn - uncluttered blocks, clean
shapes, expensive fabrics - means it’s less about blatant exhibitionism and
more about a new-found confidence. Burgundy, teal, acid lemon, champagne
yellow, deep jade, apple green, royal blue, pillar box red, fuchsia and
tangerine orange all feature. In their consistent simplicity, they represent a
new take on luxury and richness.
Miuccia Prada led the way for this new trend. Her jewel-bright satin tops,
tunics and short skirts came in plain, unbroken blocks save for a curve-
accentuating leather belt tied around the waist. Tailoring is intricate, but the 2
surface of the fabric is always left plain. Sophisticated 40s style turbans are
worn on the head to add elegance and sophistication to the look, whilst
matching satin rucksacks provide a glamorous, if not a little ironic, accessory
for today’s busy woman.
This rich and very simple use of colour represents a new female confidence.
Last season, the Superluxe Vagabond represented a new individualistic way
of dressing. The oversized layering of gloves, socks and knitwear screamed
‘look at me’ yet at the same time ‘don’t look at me’. The New Opulence trend
reflects this same confident yet introverted attitude.
Designers who reveled in New Opulence: Prada, DKNY, Jil Sander, Preen,
Paul Smith, Sophia Kokosalaki, Christopher Kane, Emmanuel Ungaro, Alice
McCall, Valentino, Lanvin
Signature fragrance for New Opulence: Femme by Boss
1 3
1. Carolina Herrera 2. Prada 3. Jil Sander
So Long

Naturally long hair makes a strong appearance on the catwalk for S/S ’07,
and is always rich with health (i.e. wealth) and shine. Hair extensions and
artificial tresses from last season are abandoned in favour of naturally thick,
long locks which are usually all the same length, as seen at Prada and
Blumarine. Sometimes the hair is slightly wavy; at others it is straight and
thick. It is always rich in shine. This glossiness complements the rich shine
of the luxury fabrics seen in the New Opulence trend.

To recreate the look:

McKnight says “Hair should look young, fresh, clean and bouncy.
If it’s full of health and vigour and has been well conditioned and cut,
It’s automatically young and sexy. In order to tame and style long hair,
blow dry with a little mousse. Setting hair on large Velcro rollers helps
smooth the hair. This will ensure it keeps its thickness without becoming 2
thin and one-dimensional, as it might with straightening irons”.

Key products:
Pantene Pro-V Ice Shine Volume & Shine Mousse
System Professional Shimmer Spray
Sebastian Laminates Drops
Sebastian Laminates Concentrate Gel
Wellaflex Brilliant Colors Mousse
Wellaflex Brilliant Colors Spray Gel

1 3
1. Prada 2. Blumarine 3. Chloe
Pared Down Perfection

To complement the rich sheen of the opulent silks and satins, the face is
given an even, perfected complexion that emphasizes the idea of natural
health (i.e. wealth). It is minimal and clean. A light covering of soft, creamy
foundation is applied, then tissued off. The face is then dusted with a little
face powder. The overall effect is one of matte perfection, as opposed to
a shiny or ‘sweaty’ glow. It’s about fresh, youthful skin in its most natural,
confident form. This natural, pared down look pervaded the majority of
fashion trends for Spring/Summer, making it one of the season’s defining
beauty trends.

Interpreting the look:

McGrath says, “Apply a light cream foundation, then tissue off. Dust face
with a little translucent powder to take away any excess shine with a large
2
brush, but don’t ‘smack’ it into the pores – this would make skin seem too
dusty and dull. It’s important to achieve a natural, even glow. Pinch the
cheeks to add natural colour and depth to the face, and finish with nude
lip balm for a hint of shine”.

Key products:
Olay Total Effects 7X Mask
Max Factor Age Renew Foundation
Max Factor Pan-Stik

1 3
1. Bottega Veneta 2. Hussein Chalayan 3. Paul Smith
New Opulence Summary

New Opulence is a celebration of wealth and luxury. The simplicity of the use
of colour – where embellishments and patterns are scarce – and the classic
use of tailoring, mean that both the quality of the fabric, and the exotic shade
in which it is dyed, become paramount. Accessories take a back seat. Rich
sleek glossy hair and almost perfect complexions suggest a further natural
confidence in one’s wealth and self-made luxury.
Executive Sport

Sportswear – previously absent for a while - combines with workwear to

create a new laid-back urban uniform for the active modern career woman.
Last season the power suit came in the form of drab masculine factory
overalls; before that it was about continental uniforms. This season, it’s softer,
sexier and sportier, and reveals more flesh than before.

The office executive’s clothes are beautifully tailored with soft, clean shapes;
made from luxury silks, wools and cashmere, they’re aimed at the powerful
female consumer. Embellishments and frills are scarce; it’s about shape as
opposed to colour or pattern here. Layering is also common. Colours remain
neutral; taupes, beiges and whites are key. The blouson-style parka replaces
the more formal and restrictive trench coat.

The classic white dress shirt forms another staple. Hooded tops are worn with 2
tailored trousers, romper suits combine swimwear with the more traditional
hot pant/city short. At Marc Jacobs, baseball caps and flamboyant metallic
head corsages are teamed with combat-style pants and jackets. Designer
handbags are evident but are not as oversized as last season; designer logos
appear on some. Shoes come in the form of bejewelled ‘platform’ flats, super-
chunky wedge heels or tennis pumps. It’s both frivolous and serious. Soft and
feminine, but with a distinct air of ‘combat’ about them; these clothes define a
comfortable, sexy working wardrobe for the active urban career women.

Designers who went sporty: Stella McCartney, Dries van Noten, Marc Jacobs,
Paul Smith, Michael Kors, Pringle, Issey Miyake, Loewe, Cacharel, Celine,
MaxMara

Signature fragrance for Executive Sport: Lacoste Inspiration

1 3
1. Dries Van Noten 2. Stella McCartney 3. Michael Kors
Casual Flyaway

To complement the natural confidence of the executive female, hair is left

loose and natural. Lightly styled and blow dried, the overall appearance
is one of casual ease. The working woman is confident in her appearance,
her natural energy and luxury clothing represents this inner confidence;
she doesn’t need a complex hair-do to prove it in addition.

To recreate the look:

McKnight says, “This is about expensive hair that’s rich and glossy and
makes a woman look, and feel, relaxed and confident. Wash hair and work
through a little a comb-in cream conditioner to achieve a rich, voluminous
finish that’s easy to style. Next, comb a little mousse or light styling cream
through damp hair, and blow-dry straight using a good quality bristle brush.
Finally, rub a couple of drops of serum between your hands and smooth
over the hair for a rich, glossy finish. Wear loose or tie in a casual ponytail.” 2

Key products:
Pantene Pro-V Smooth & Sleek Comb in Cream
Pantene Pro-V Smooth & Sleek Intense Anti-Frizz Serum
Sebastian Laminates Anti-Frizz Hairspray
Sebastian Evocativ Nudist Leave-In Smoothing Serum
Sebastian Originals Potion 9
Wella ShockWaves Wonder Frizz Fighter Mousse
Wella ShockWaves Foaming Wax
Wella ShockWaves Texturising Gum

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1. Sportmax 2. Biba 3. Etro
Healthy Glow

On top of the ‘pared-down’ even complexion, a light dusting of bronzing

powder is sometimes applied to add a healthy, tanned glow to the face.
It’s a fresh, sporty look and is far more subtle than the deep 80s tans seen
In the past. This glow is recreated using a cream foundation that is one shade
darker than the natural colour of the skin; light bronzing powders
and gels are also used.

Interpreting the look:

McGrath advises “Buy two foundations; one in your natural shade,
and one in one shade darker. Mix the two together to create a natural
chestnut blush on the face. This is more instant than using a fake tan,
and much more natural.”

Key products: 2
Max Factor Age Renew Foundation
Max Factor Loose Powder
Max Factor Flawless Perfection Blush

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1. Stella McCartney 2. Oscar de la Renta 3. Pringle of Scotland
Executive Sport Summary

Executive Sport represents a new working wardrobe for the active career
woman. It is sexy and feminine, yet practical. Her hair and make-up
symbolise natural health and inner confidence. The urban executive is
in control because of her natural vigour; she has no need for masculine
working attire to relay that quality.
Top 10 Fashion Must Haves
1. Chanel Perspex Cut-Out Wedges 2. Balenciaga Transparent Lab Glasses 3. Paul Smith White Dress Shirt 4.Louis Vuitton High-Gloss Monogrammed
Bag 5. Chloe Beaded Shift Dress 6. Kenzo Rainbow Stacked Bangles with Attached Clutch 7. Prada Satin Turban 8. Marc Jacobs Gem-Encrusted White
Leather Crystal Heels 9. Fendi Logo Clutch 10. Louis Vuitton Embellished Logo t-shirt

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Top 5 Beauty Must Haves
Defined Eyes Max Factor Masterpiece MAX Mascara Geometric Cut Wella ShockWaves Tame It! Straightening Cream
Pared Down Perfection Olay Total Effects 7X Mask Nude Balm Lip Max Factor Lipfinity Top Coat
Scraped Back Pantene Pro-V Smooth & Sleek Frizz Taming Styling Milk