Fashion: Feminine flair

By Michiko Hylands

Living·

23 Aug, 2015 03:00 AM3 mins to read

Photos / Supplied

Have fun with florals to get into the mood for spring.

Despite the chill factor, spring is just around the corner so it's time to start updating the old winter wardrobe with some fab new season finds.

Taking inspiration from the delicate, beautiful spring flowers bursting into bud, designers are channelling this pretty feeling, offering a gorgeous mix of pieces that reflect a fiercely feminine spirit.

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Celebrating this, Trelise Cooper's "Livin' on a Flare" dress epitomises this strong, feminine vision. I adore this flirty little floral mini dress, which features extra panels, adding interesting volume and shape.

There's nothing more elegant and feminine than a kimono. I love the japon-esque detailing of Carlson's bohemian inspired "Beaton" kimono jacket, worn here with her exquisitely embroidered "Peacock" dress.

Charmaine Reveley's cornflower blue lace "Nightshade" frock is oh so ladylike. This quietly sophisticated dress brilliantly flatters the feminine shape, thanks to its clean design lines.

Keeping it pretty in the pastels' department is Staple + Cloth's "Ace" top, worn here with the "Maxwell" culottes. I love how the soft "girly-girl" feeling of the delicate printed top is balanced against the clean, pure minimalism of the white culottes.

Sticking with the sugary gelato shades, I love Ruby's dusty pink "Orchid" top. This versatile top can also be worn as a jacket and looks amazing when teamed with Ruby's spotted "Audrey" crop top and matching pant. The black-and-white spotted set creates a fun 50s-style mood.

Pleats are once again back in the spotlight. Vaughan Geeson's pleated "De Winter" pinafore easily flatters the female figure with its nipped-in waist.

Once reserved for tragic 80s ball and wedding dress monstrosities, frills, ruffles and flounces are back in a big way. When done well, these ultimate feminine touches can look incredible.

I love the sculptural qualities of Lucy McIntosh's "Gas" top with its fantastic fluted detailing. Worn with her "Stationary" trouser, the ensemble is undeniably feminine and yet still fabulously fashion forward.

Feminine touches

1 Why not look at life through rose-tinted glasses? Add polish and sophistication to your look with these timeless Bristol frames from Preen. $320.

2 Throwing on a fab feminine heel is an absolute necessity. Skin's lilac strappy suede "Calypso" shoe has fun pom pom detailing and sexy ankle tie. $200.

3 Have a great mani and pedi at all times with Topshop's baby pink marshmallow-coloured nail polish in "Heartbreaker". $13.

4 You can't help but get in touch with your feminine side in Stella McCartney's Lingerie set "Stella Smooth Print in Pink Chalk/Japanese Blossom" contour balconet bra with matching bikini bottom. Bra $99.95, Bikini $44.95.