R
af Simons last collection for Jil Sander was perhaps the seasons loveliest, most serene, wearable and engaging collection. It was filled with long life pieces, those that will be handed down to daughters and grand daughters, it’s longevity is evident in it’s classic silhouettes, 1950’s haute couture inspired, designed with lack of trend and fuss. The colors were calm and cool…. tobacco, stone, palest pinks and creams, silver, pale blues, with a few punches of color (and of course black) thrown in for good measure.
The coats were gorgeous, double face cashmere, most in the pale pastels, however there was a red opera coast that will surely stand the test of time. Underneath, the dresses were tailored and tucked, simple but effective, again, soft and scrumptious. A navy evening dress with keyhole bodice will surely have the buyers scrambling. There was one trouser look that I loved, high waisted, draped and creme, paired with a nude bustier, a bit provocative yet timeless, luxurious and elegant. Simons designs ease and effortlessness, no brainer pieces, feminine and wearable for decades to come.
Make up and hair were just as clean and minimal as the clothes which just solidified that this nonchalant, less is more mantra really works. I cant imagine why he is leaving, however Franco Pene, chairman of Gibo, which owns Jil Sander said “it was a strategic issue to return to the culture of the brand”…and gain “consistency”. Whatever the reason, where Raf Simons goes, I, along with legions of other women, will certainly follow as he is a top dog, up there in the Pantheon of great designers.
