S/S 2011 collections

I did not intend to look too closely at current trends or collections - I want this project to be inspired by the 'real thing' as much as possible rather than looking at newer work.
I did, however, notice a few things I loved about the upcoming collections - there are definitely some good vintage references used.

I have edited some clips of the Dior and Vuitton shows together - the clothes look so much better on video than they do in a photograph...

Christian Dior Haute Couture

The full, layered skirts and form fitting bodices here make for a really feminine silhouette. There are also some interesting necklines - the neckline on the pink bubble hemmed dress especially. There are references to several 'vintage' decades within this collection: the full skirts and tiny waists are very 1950s; the drop waist loose dresses are very reminiscent of the look favored by women throughout the 1920s, the mid-length pencil skirts are very post-war 1940s. I think the light pastel colours used here give these classic shapes a breath of fresh air - they aren't what I would necessarily expect from vintage inspired evening wear.

Louis Vuitton

The look favoured by Louis Vuitton for S/S 2011 has most definitely been inspired by the 1920s flapper girls. The plunging necklines, low-slung waists and smouldering makeup lend a 1920s feel - the obi belts and flower prints giving the oriental touch to the collection. Its flapper girl meets the Orient Express!

Proenza Schouler

 Proenza Schouler has given the pencil skirt/camisole combo a modern makeover with swishy sheer fabrics.

Azzaro

 I love the use of fabrics and subtle embellishments here - the maxi dress with the black bow belt is so cute! Slightly confused as to where the odd oversized blue bow shirt sits in this collection though....