MYSTERIOUS SWASHBUCKLER
Paris: An Vandevorst and Filip Arickx initially spun a mysterious film noir mood for S/S 13, obscuring the faces of their models with stiff organza fedoras and a coating of gold Bond-girl paint. Cinched black trench coats and asymmetric pencils skirts were lovely, while strappy bondage belts and beaded net sleeves hinted at the drama to come. After a subdued opening the collection exploded into a series of textured metallic ensembles, from head-to-toe bronze brocade matched sets to intricately beaded silver jumpsuits and chunky coated knits. Strong shouldered looks with draped fronts and long tails achieved a fantastic swashbuckling attitude, driving home A.F. Vandevorst’s self-assured message for Spring.—Nina Stotler
Silhouette: Slim / Tapered / Asymmetric / Hourglass
Color: Black / Gunmetal / Gold / Crimson / Turquoise / Bronze / Soft lavender / Champagne / Nude / White
Key Items: Tapered leather trousers / Molded vests / Leather tunic dresses / Asymmetric satin skirts / Brocade matched sets / Draped silk dresses / Draped cotton shirting / Strong shoulder blazers
Materials: Leather / Lightweight wool / Satin / Brocade / Lurex / Metallic ribbed knits / Chiffon / Satin / Crisp cotton
Print + Pattern: Brocade florals
Details + Trim: Leather lapels / Molded shoulders / Asymmetry / Bead embellishments / Tails / Peplums / Ribbing / Draping / Tassels
Accessories + Footwear: Braided strap sandals & wedges / Utilitarian strappy corset belts / Stiff organza fedoras / Peep toe platform boots / Knotted rope belts / Fringed scarves / Beaded gloves
