inspiration

One trend that has emerged for SS11 is oriental-inspired clothing. While the look first became popular in Western society in the 1920s-30 - think opium dens, silks and lots of embellishment -the re-emergence of the trend can be linked to the industry's current penchant for 90s styles. Remember how big the look was back then, the Chinese silk-wrap dresses with the distinct neckline, and Japanese Kimonos?

The necklines are back, the silks and the embellishments, but the trend is much more mordernised. In the 90s the look was very complete, remaining almost entirely faithful to its traditional form. Now the shapes remain, but the looks have been updated, and made much more wearable.

Rodarte

Rodarte was informed by oriental styles and cuts but that was it. The patterns - woodgrain, ceramics, and a pallete reminisant of 70s inspired surburbia - gave the collection an entirely different feel.

Celine

Celine kept the look minimal. Pants were loose, made from silk, while patterned tops were paired with simple, plain bottoms to keep the overall style relaxed.

Luis Vuitton

Luis Vuitton, under the guidance of Marc Jacobs, was the most faithful to the look, really striving for the opulent opium house style. Colours were rich, textures were mixed, and there was plenty of embellishment. Still Jacobs made the look wearable, using on-trend animal prints and sheer fabrics. He also used a lot of colour blocking, another big trend for the SS11 season.