From sexy to subversive, subtle to audacious, presenting defining looks of the moment

By Archana Aithal Rose

Age Of Romance
It’s a new day, a new dawn, so bring the fun in separates appointed in soft fabrics and feminine tailoring with preppy colors that pack in plenty of flair.

Alexis, a high end women swear brand established in 2008 by mother daughter duo Ana and Alexis Barbara, combines the pair’s passion for vintage and travel to create pieces that are at once understated and unique. Sold in over 250 boutiques and department stores worldwide, the brand features stylish staples cut in lace, silks, and rich textiles.

In red and cream stripes, the Cara dress features playful ruffles on the bias and falls right above the knees, making it the perfect summer statement (or, dare we say, exclamation?). $587, seesawboutique.com

The Venecia dress (middle), with cut outs on the waist and legs, packs in the right amount of sex appeal in a pristine ivory shade. $893, seesawboutique.com

Give everyone the cool shoulder in this Elsa top, in Botanica Black and with a smocked bust and balloon sleeves. $380, seesawboutique.com

The Royal Oui
If there was a single word to describe Louis Vuitton’s spring summer collection, it would be historic. Nicolas Ghesquière, the creative director for LV, combined 18th century costume references with the house’s signature athletic style. The resulting collection was showcased in the regal setting of the Louvre’s Pavillon de l’Horloge, once a fortress and royal residence and now part of the famed museum. The gradual metamorphosis of that site was the key vision for the couture brand’s collection. Frock coats in shimmering metallic brocades were teamed with shiny boxer shorts and vinyl pants, while tee shirts printed with pop culture references (one sported the logo of the Netflix show Stranger Things), were layered with printed silk blousons. Models also strutted down the runway in be ruffled dresses paired with clunky LV sneakers and The Matrix style sunglasses. But, despite the seemingly clashing aesthetics, Ghesquière fused the concepts of old and new seamlessly, making the promise of time travel even more alluring.

ARE YOU EXPERIENCED?
Of slouchy dresses, quirky add-ons, busy wallpaper prints, kitschy coats, and more, “granny chic” may seem like an oxymoron, but it’s what’s in, baby. Thanks to older fashion icons like Lyn Slater and Iris Apfel, whimsical sartorial choices are hip and trending. And why not? Isn’t everything old, new again…always? After years of minimalism, we are relishing this new “more is more” phase. Here’s how to rock more glammed out versions of what nana wears, without paying a visit to a retirement home.

Derek Lam Pleated Stripe Skirt
It’s all about the length when nailing “nana” style. This pleated skirt in viscose can easily pair with a boxy sweater or a pussy bow top. $1,490, dereklam.com

Miu Miu 3D Floral Mule with Jeweled Heel
Refresh the granny vibe while focusing on classic style with satin mules in Astro Blue. With flower appliques. $790, neimanmarcus.com

Victoria Beckham Ruffle Neck Midi
Modestly chic, and in bright red silk with a draped waistband—this makes the granny chic look soft and sensual. $3,420, cocopari.com