I often think that I wasn't meant for this time. Imagine a world where ladies worn thin, cigarette pants and voluminous skirts and men were gentlemen who wore hats. Gloved hands, summers in sepia and the studio system -- I wish there were a way to morph the power that women have today with the grace and refined elegance of another era.
When it comes to clothing, my style has evolved into an affection for luxurious knits, expert tailoring, the exquisite details (codas, really), and a feeling of fluidity. From double-faced wool jackets to silk trousers and waist-cut coats, I love the simple, the beautiful and the quiet refinement that only a caliber of clothing can bring. So when I had the privilege of viewing St. John's Fall 2011 collection, I marveled over a collection that paid homage to a bygone era (think the Yves St. Laurent grecian satin gowns of the 1970s juxtaposed with a luxe, mohair swing coat, which evoked images of a mod, sinewy Twiggy) while thrusting itself, seams-first, if you will, into modernity. While catering to the classic St. John woman who craves easy silhouettes and refined fabrics, Creative Director George Sharp has injected life, spirt, and louche luxury into the iconic brand's Fall collection.
Believe me when I say, a woman can't wait for wool shifts and statement jewels.
I'll be candid and say that one could easily relegate the brand to the Park Avenue matron set -- that is, if one were blind, and unable to witness the exquisite array of necessary wardrobe staples and delicious, albeit forgiving, evening separates. What I loved most about the collection were the texture plays (silk shirts paired with fur jackets and flannel wide-legged pants! sequins paired with wool!), the marvelous details (a georgette lining peeking out from a wool jacket! the seamless, Loro Piana-milled cashmere!), and the soft gradations of color (the grays!). Every piece was worth coveting and certainly worth the investment.
And the costume gems! I'm obsessed with eye-catching baubles, pearls (the pulsing-heart sanguine reds!), and the rings and bracelets that sparkle and delight.
So while spring has broken and the motley lot spill onto the pavement in their unbearably short shorts and ill-fitted tops, I'll turn my attention to fall, to how a lady who is strong, smart, and hard-working, should dress for day.