When I think of Marni, I like to recall a trip taken to Italy a few years back where I tracked down an enclave of high-end designer “outlets” located on the outskirts of Florence. I had entered designer heaven, I’m talking Dolce & Gabbana bikinis, Prada bags, Pucci scarves…all under $100 bucks. I, of course, snatched up a few goodies from the places I just mentioned, but it was at the Marni “outlet” that I found one of my favorite handbags of all time. Words will not do it justice, but it was a butter soft leather rectangular clutch with oversized silver handles. It was a steal at $148 American dollars! I still have it in its sweet little canvas dust bag, and on occasion of course I bring it out and let it dangle from my arm. But what I love the most about it is that it screams Marni…the color and shape are an eclectic combination that just work. And this is the element that embodies the attitude of the Italian fashion house.
The Spring 2009 Ready-to-Wear Collection is full of these combinations, and layering, layering, layering. Shades of chartreuse, rust, reds and lavenders are seen throughout the collection with large, sheer dot textiles layered in between, on top, and on bottom. There’s a lot going on in these runway looks, but it all somehow works without looking kooky. It was tough choosing which ones I liked best, so below are my top three.
I absolutely love the first look…probably the most. The combination of muted earthtones and bright jeweltones is genius! Sequins at the bottom? Perfect. The nude belt and dot strip in the middle balance everything out.
The second look is a perfect example of something to get an idea from and then re-create in your own variation. Imagine the one-piece underneath wide leg pants or an a-line cotton skirt.
The last look makes great use of color and texture pairing white, orange and chunky necklaces.
My suggestion for achieving an outfit that is inspired by these looks is to aim for bright color that really pops, layer bright pieces with muted ones…and accessorize with belts, necklaces and maybe even some tights, thigh-highs, or knee-highs.
The Ecote Canvas Lace Booties below have a funky combination of patterns and I think go with the theme of this collection. Plus they are probably really comfy. $28 UrbanOutfitters.com
Okay, so these are a bit scandalous…but spice things up a bit and wear them with tights! Silence & Noise sequin shorts $14.99 UrbanOutfitters.com
Couture Couture by Juicy Couture Bead & Coin Necklace $268 Nordstrom.com
Geo Shapes Woven Tunic $15.80 forever21.com
Find at Smarter.com: Shop for more women’s shoes and necklaces.
Discounts on women’s woven tunics and women’s tights.
So, I’ve always been a fan of Stella McCartney—she’s definitely mastered that effortless cool, which earned her the British Designer of the Year Award last year, and I love the way she’s always maintained that underground, slightly rock ‘n roll, hip girl look in each of her collections.
Pink carnation: $1-2, Your local florist