This page features elements and 10 beautiful images of a
spring/summer 2005 fashion press report, from the long established UK stores
nationwide called Wallis,
which are
owned by the Arcadia Group.
The
main themes of the Wallis season are defined under the concept of Global
Decadence as Ballets Russes, Ecuador, Maharaja and Tribal Queen.
This
is an unashamedly decadent collection with a strong ethnic undercurrent, spanning the tribes of Africa and the
plains of South America, the exotica of India through to the dance theatres
of Imperial St Petersburg…
Bohemia
Influenced
by a time when Jean Shrimpton and Twiggy were the darlings of the
fashion world, bold floral patterns contrast with the delicacy of
sheer chiffon in deep purple, aqua and magenta. Surface decoration
adorns skirts in the form of embroidery, appliqué and beading.
~
Maharaja
Is all about
Indian opulence and rich detail.
Neutral metallics and olive tones are
mixed with brights.
At Wallis dresses are strapless or with an
empire line and heavily embellished.
Kaftans are worn with
sandals and layered jewellery or over slouched pants for a daytime
casual look.
Key fabrics include extravagant brocades and fresh
linens.
Ecuador
Vibrant tangerines and purples
with neutrals and give an ethnic 1970’s feel against a modern mix of
embroidery with metal work.
Babydoll dresses, silk tiered skirts
and halterneck waistcoats are finished with trinket trims and dirndl
borders.
Ballets Russes
Takes
inspiration from the pre-Revolution dance era of 1900’s Russia. A
Wallis delicate occasion collection that uses tulle, organdie, mesh
and satin to highlight movement in fabric and colour.
Cropped bolero
cardigans or coloured crochet wraps are worn over sheer chiffon
dresses. Linen pieces have cutwork details and lace inserts.
Silhouettes are elegant yet ethereal, or reminiscent of vintage opera
outfits, in exquisite tones of jade, watery green, white and ivory.
Tribal Queen
Striking
animal prints in hot pimento, mandarin, copper and chartreuse feature
against a more sombre backdrop of oatmeal, mocha, chestnut and khaki.
Wallis classic wrap jersey dresses have imitation ivory trims, while
bone, shell and wooden beading add ethnic decoration. African-inspired
jewellery in metal gives a modern finish.
Arcadia who own Wallis also own TopShop,
Dorothy Perkins, Evans and Miss Selfridge. You can read more about
these by using the gold navigation buttons left or the links on the lists below.
See Marks and Spencer New Spring Collections online
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