Must-See Spring/Summer 2013 Collections: Part 1

On September 4, style bloggers took to the streets, models were fitted, designers tweeked, buyers examined, socialites posed, and all turned to fashion in New York City. It was day 1 of fashion month, kicking off ten days in New York, five in London, six in Milan and, the grand finale, six in Paris. It can be exceedingly overwhelming to browse lengthy collections as they are published (seemingly live) on the web. Some are for the Daphne Guinness’ of this world, unwearable and fantastical all the same, others are just plain ridiculous, and most are eye opening and beautiful. Part 1 of my Must-See Spring/Summer 2013 collections gives you everything from a Sicilian getaway to a classic trench with a twist, and thank goodness, a whole lot of inspiration for the every day.

DVF:  Diane von Furstenberg is known for her bold prints and wrap dresses, but each year she never ceases to amaze by continuously reinventing the wheel while staying true to her brand image. Diane is all about empowering women, and this is evident in these confident, bold looks that are incredibly current. Nothing says “I’m fearless” like giant hoop earrings or turquoise paired with soft pink and a plunging neckline. Diane not only gives us a lesson in colour blocking, but equips us with styling tips for our next wardrobe blunder.
See the full collection here.

DKNY: A great pencil skirt, perfectly tailored pants, and killer colour combos. DKNY, in a nutshell. No matter how many wild collections I peruse, I always find myself enthralled by those minimalistic shows that introduce high fashion to the street. You know those women that pass you by, impeccably styled? Imagine a whole collection of them, without all the guilt of staring. Tuck a denim button up into a fitted skirt and pair your favourite khakis with a punch of yellow and some black detailing.
See the full collection here.

Dolce & Gabbana: A collection that transports you to a far away land in a heartbeat, is a special thing. Chandelier earrings inspired by street puppets, souvenir scarves worn as hair accessories, colourful patterns, bold stripes, embroidered detailing and all things traditionally Sicilian, embodied the Dolce & Gabbana Spring show. It was hardly a departure for the brand, but you can’t help but love it. Draw inspiration from the designers’ daring use of colour and accessories, and look to your inner Italiano for that signature confidence.
See the full collection here.

Burberry Prorsum: The days of traditional beige and classic trench are long gone for Burberry, and what results is utter reinvention. Designer Christopher Bailey was inspired by the 1940s this season, materializing in a collection stacked with capes, corsets, peplums and pencil skirts in the deepest of colours. A dark berry lip unified each look, and colour pairings were major eye candy with the likes of royal blue and emerald green followed by classic scarlet and deep purple. A lesson in colour blocking is dominant here, but there’s also a dramatic transformation of classicism that we can all begin to master in the every day.
See the full collection here.

Badgley Mischka: Feminine, romantic, pale; Badgley Mischka brought this and so much more to the runway this season, showcasing just how interesting these three qualities can be. A rosette adorned peplum top, scalloped skirts, embroidered detailing, a tuxedo jacket tucked into a draping skirt, and a colour palette different from any other bright-eyed collection out there. Infuse a little soft romance into your wardrobe, with unusual and obscure floral touches mixed with modern cuts and small details that catch the eye.
See the full collection here.

Which Spring/Summer 2013 collection most inspires you?