NEW SOPHISTICATION
London: For her second collection as creative director of Topshop Unique, former Vogue editor Kate Phelan introduced a sense of sophistication that was absent at the label before her tenure. The mostly black and white looks featured grown-up tailoring, clean lines, and airy sheer panels. Grid-like patterns and wide stripes (the season’s most important motif thus far) were in heavy rotation, while colorless florals offered moody romance. For evening, Phelan presented sheer dresses with strategically placed opaque panels that were seductive without being vulgar. A pair of silver tailored pants could easily transition from day to night, while oversized jackets and blazers are sure to become the Topshop girl’s new wear-to-work essentials. –Joanna Manganaro
Silhouette: Hourglass / Oversized / Top heavy
Color: White / Black / Silver / Grey / Indigo / Cream / Blush / Lemon yellow
Key Items: Tailored trousers / Oversized blazers / Sheer dresses with opaque panels / Slouchy sweatshirts
Materials: Cotton jersey / Chiffon / Mesh / Fluid silks / Organza / Soft suitings
Print + Pattern: Sketchy grids / Wide stripes / Black and white florals
Details + Trim: Opaque panels / Straps / Shoulder cutouts / Asymmetric necklines and hemlines / Sequins
Accessories + Footwear: Single dangly earring / Silver bangles / Fold-over clutches / Ankle strap cap toe pumps / High-heeled ankle strap sandals / Pointy-toe pumps
