Sun + Summer = Happy days in London Town. Time to relegate tights and trenches to the back of the wardrobe, reaching instead for delicious florals and petal-like chiffons.
Must be said that I’m always a bit heartbroken to see the loyal winter staple – my trusty leather jacket – back on its hanger; she who has sheltered me from bitter winter winds on Bond Street and warded off hypothermia as I stand shivering in my LBD outside the bar.
Worn to death and possibly too often – let’s be honest, my poor jacket is torturously abused – this single piece of clothing has stood the test of time and trend. It seems a shame to bid her adieu for the summer months ahead. Imagine my surprise at learning that the fabric du jour for Summer 2010 is none other than…
Leather?!
Before you recoil in horror at the thought of spending your days wrapped in a leather cat suit in 30 degree heat, allow me to shed some light on the situation:
This summer’s leathers are buttery soft, wafer thin, in a palate of muted mochas, etoupe and various shades of nude, and thankfully can be found in collections from our favourite designers: Alexander Wang, Phoebe Philo for Celine and Yves Saint Laurent.
The eternal question: How to sport this rather eccentric trend? A few suggestions: A leather skirt can take on a feminine edge when teamed with a delicate silk blouse; pair a leather tee shirt with roll-hem khaki shorts or your faithful Daisy Dukes! For the uber fashion-forward: opt for a leather shift dress, showcasing your tanned pins in a pair of killer Nicholas Kirkwoood’s or Burberry’s strappy summer wedges.
My thoughts: Leather is the new lace; feminine, smart and forever sexy. Not a hint of Hell’s Angel in sight.
