Kimonos, Flatforms & Oriental Inspiration | Trend

This season sees the country of Japan to be among the highest influences for the trend that has been a recurring source for designers to create romantic collections with ancient Asia’s traditional silhouettes, all whilst fantasising about its mystical secrets. We see it in everything from silhouette to trimmings and fabric choices. The Far East first inspired 2013 Haute Couture collections at Christian Dior and continued on the Spring/Summer 2013 catwalk of Altuzarra, Carolina Herrera and Emilio Pucci. They were among the designers to emphasize the traditional flowing lines, think Geisha-style, and successfully incorporate their pieces into sublimely decorative yet discreet outfits for the modern woman’s wardrobe. Their collections were filled with delicate embroidery on evening slips, trouser suits and shirt dresses, creating romantic yet powerful wardrobe staples.

Aquilano.Rimondi, Etro, Haider Ackermann and minimalistic favourite Stella McCartney all sculpted kimono-shaped collections in techno-fabrics. Aquilano.Rimondi and Etro both focused on traditional play with print and pops of colour whilst Stella McCartney and Haider Ackermann stuck to a more sober colour palette, focusing on layers in different weights. The key feature across the collections is without doubt the Obi-Wan-Kenobi style belt, apart from Mugler, whose impressive smooth tan ensemble stayed wrapped without a hint of a fastening.

The best way to infuse Eastern culture in your wardrobe is to aim for all-rounders. These are staple pieces and instant wardrobe updates so keep it modern: Discard the typical dragons and predictable hair accessories in favour of a sleek low bun, red lip and rich silk wraps for a luxurious evening cover up.  At New York Fashion Week, Anya Ziourova was the perfect example of how to create an on-trend daytime look in Proenza Schouler. Take a leaf out of her book and aim for print or delicate embroidery in a matching jacket and skirt, better yet, a structured playsuit. Casting agent Natalie Joos put a creative spin on the trend in a garment by Peter Pilotto, teaming with Tom Ford sunglasses, Delvaux bag and Casadei shoes at day four of S/S 13’s Paris Fashion Week.

Lastly, a sure way to experiment with the Oriental trend is through the Judo and Geisha-style flatforms all strutting down the catwalk at Prada, Marni and Marc Jacobs. If you feel like playing around further, try adding a pair of socks.

How To Style: The main investment should be a statement coat, so try this divine Dolce & Gabbana full length jacket (£2,531) for feminine glamour that will take you through day to night. Or this classic ASOS Kimono (£70) you’ll be spoilt for choice, regardless of your budget. Did Natalie Joos’s creative outfit get your Fashion-senses tingling? This Peter Pilotto is the perfect dress (£2,449) to get you started. For a real bargain, this purple oriental dress (NOW £37.50) is another wonder from ASOS, along with a delicate Etro-style embroidered shirt (£65). Don’t forget that your choice of footwear can make or break an outfit- I suggest you check out these very wearable heels by L.K. Bennett (£275)

Would you wear this Oriental Trend? And which designer’s collection do you prefer? Let me know in the comments below.

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