RUNWAY TO REALWAY

HIGH SPIRITS

Hold your head up high to show off these dramatic flounce collars. From Celine to Loewe, luxury houses have framed our visages this season with this elegant, sophisticated style—from romantic lace Victorian blouses to exaggerated multi-tiered versions and simple ruffled collars with pussy bows. Pair it with high-waisted trousers or a wrap skirt. With all this pretty frothiness, it’s best to balance out the look with leather boots or sneakers for a cool urban take on Victoriana. 

1 Bag, $3,170, Roger Vivier 

2 Balance this feminine look with leather boots and a nonchalant attitude 

3 Top, Balmain 

4 Sunglasses, Oliver Peoples

5 A flower-like collar frames the face 

6 Add pearl earrings for that extra touch of elegance 

7 Trousers, alice + olivia

8 Dress, Kate Spade New York 

9 Earrings, $840, Burberry

10 Boot, $2,470, Louis Vuitton 

11 Dress, about $428, AVAVAV at Net-a-Porter 

12 Draw all eyes with a head-turning accessory 

PAISLEY, PLEASE

The classic bohemian print of the ’60s is back with a chic, modern twist. The print is blown up on billowy dresses for a psychedelic take on daytime dressing. In its controlled mini size, it decorates everything from fitted jackets to wrap skirts and even a frilled maillot. Paisley also becomes a motif on oversize knit jumpers, best paired with soft, fluid skirts. Spruce things up by teaming the laid-back motif with sleek, tailored separates, and add quirk with oversize sunnies and a cocktail ring. 

1 Dress, about $1,195, Matty Bovan at MatchesFashion.com 

2 Elevate your boho dress with stylish extras 

3 An oversize jumper doubles as a mini dress 

4 Skirt, about $379, Acler at Farfetch 

5 Add a feminine and playful touch with tulle 

6 Ring, $2,250, Tiffany & Co. 

7 Wear your hair tousled to match the free-spirited vibe 

8 Headband, ASOS 

9 Bag, $4,300, Dior 

10 A black leather flap bag is a wardrobe must-have 

11 Let the print take centre stage by teaming with minimalist accessories 

12 Skirt, Etro 

13 Swimsuit, about $500, Zimmermann at Net-a-Porter 

14 Mule, Christian Louboutin 

SOUTH OF BORDEAUX

The richer, darker and altogether more sophisticated cousin to scarlet, maroon makes a welcome return this spring/summer. This saturated hue has the same versatility of blacks and greys, making it your new neutral. Go for a monochromatic look by teaming varying shades of maroon in different textures, or pair an oxblood number with a lighter-coloured piece. Keep the look light by wearing it with beige, cream or taupe, and finish with a flash of vintage gold. 

1 A highly detailed leather top and asymmetrical skirt gives you maximum impact 

2 Bracelet, $2,600, Chanel 

3 Ease into the trend with a timeless leather skirt 

4 Coat, about $5,865, Sies Marjan at Farfetch 

5 Top, about $560, Michelle Mason at Net-a-Porter 

6 A touch of plush velvet adds dimension 

7 Burgundy gives a velvet pantsuit an extra dose of luxe 

8 Bag charm, $690, Loewe 

9 Boot, $2,350, Fendi 

10 Play a little peekaboo with an otherwise classic look 

11 Skirt, Balmain

12 T-shirt, Alexander McQueen 

13 Odd-shaped sunglasses adds instant cool 

14 Earrings, Balenciaga 

15 Bag, $2,640, Chloé 

SUPERSIZE ME

After seasons of miniscule bags, larger, roomier totes have moved in with grandiose plans. An instant hit with the fashion crowd, the carryalls are not just statement makers, but also refreshingly practical. From Burberry’s Giant Reversible Tote in 2017 to today’s big brother versions at Bottega Veneta and Maison Margiela, many are pulling double duty as pillows. Turn to @thebigbagclub on Instagram for inspo or just for a fashion giggle. 

1 Bag, Gucci

2 Go for maximum impact with a graphic, monochromatic full-leather look 

3 Dress, about $343, Frankie Shop at Net-a-Porter 

4 Team with a chunky roll-neck top and bermudas for an effortlessly chic look 

5 Let's be honest: A large Chanel tweed bag is heirloom-worthy 

6 Carry your oversize bag as a clutch for dramatic effect 

7 Sandal, $1,810, Bottega Veneta 

8 Backpack, $2,550, Givenchy 

9 Diesel x Coca-Cola sweater, Diesel 

10 Handphone case, Dolce&Gabbana 

11 Skirt, Maje 

12 Bag, Jil Sander 

13 A novelty bag is a great conversation starter 

14 Hat, $640, Burberry 

BY GRACIA PHANG. PHOTOGRAPHY: SHOWBIT