With shows like Mad Men, Downton Abbey and Pan AM championing the female form and all things girly, it came as no surprise that the fashion houses quickly followed suit with fashion heavy weights such as Dolce and Gabbanna, Louis Vuitton, Jenny Packham and Mark Jacobs all showcasing floaty frocks, cinched in waists and ice cream shades that would make your gran proud! The key to rocking this look is to enhance your silhouette with confidence but remain feminine and demure – think Carey Mulligan as opposed to Megan Fox – so we’ve collected a few statement pieces to help you ooze that ladylike glamour.
Helen Nachintu - Champagne Pin Tuck Blouse
The rich silk satin fabric on Helen Nachintu’s Champagne Pin Tuck Blouse is key to this decadent trend. With an emphasized winged collar, long cuffs, and pearl button finish, this Edwardian style separate is a statement piece that you can treasure season after season! Wear with a pencil skirt and courts for a flattering office to cocktails look a la Christina Hendricks’s Joan in Mad Men or add a dramatic twist to a daytime look with cropped jeans or denim shorts and sandals. Accessorize with a messy up do and a printed scarf for extra fashion points. However you choose to wear this luscious lovely, you will be sure to receive many admiring glances!
Nancy Dee - Brooke Jersey Dress
Pretty prints and classic tailoring were the order of the day at Louis Vuitton’s Spring/Summer 2012 shows and instantly copied by such stars as Diane Kruger and Taylor Swift to name but a few. Harness their girly style with the Brooke Jersey Dress by Nancy Dee, which is bang on trend with its cute pink pastel hue and simple yet flattering pattern of vertical lines and arrows. The French terry fabric of this flirty, sleeveless frock is beautifully finished off with subtle neckline pleats, a cinched waist and flared skirt. Add a quirky feel by teaming with a leather jacket and brogues or pop socks and heels for a retro 1950’s vibe. This is a young, fun alternative to a wildly sophisticated trend.
Kelly Love - Dance of the Peacock Dress
For a moodier approach to the ladylike trend is the simply stunning Dance of The Peacock Dress by Kelly Love. This sandwashed cream silk beauty maintains the soft delicacy of this demure trend while adding a challenging gothic twist with the black, haunting print and contrasting Peter Pan collar, making it a versatile and timeless piece suitable for those of you only wishing to dip a toe into this delightful look. The black rimmed pockets give a laid-back edge, while the cascading tapered skirt indicates elegant sophistication. This flattering attire speaks for itself, therefore requiring no accessories, save for a pair of killer black heels and a berry stained lip.
Silk & Sawdust - Lori Skirt
The Lori skirt by Silk and Sawdust is another example of the ladylike trend in action. Suitable for day or night, this teal coloured silk-chiffon beauty exudes a light, ethereal quality that fans of this feminine style will appreciate. The pewter band continues into the lining of the skirt adding depth to the transparency of the main fabric, which then creates a two-toned hue leaving an other-worldly effect when combined with the soft undulating hem. Team with another opulent fabric such as a satin vest to fully immerse yourself into this look or play with graphics to hit two fashion birds with one stone. Ballet pumps or sandals will keep you from appearing like a Victorian barmaid!
However you choose to wear this timeless look, ensure you do it with confidence and you can’t go wrong-and if you need inspiration, remember to go back in time!
Tags: Stephanie Harlow