Fall-Winter 2011 Womens Burberry Prorsum

February 22, 2011

Last night, as the clock struck 12 (or rather, 4 in the afternoon in London), live-streaming players flickered to life on many a screen the world over and a hush descended over the gigantic tent in Kensington Gardens where the Fall-Winter 2011 Womens Burberry Prorsum runway show was taking place. A lone orange figure (Jourdan Dunn) strutted down the runway to the sound of Dusty Springfield’s You Don’t Own Me, a fitting ode to the proverbial Independent Woman.

Having dedicated the collection to ‘60s model Jean Shrimpton, Christopher Bailey sent out looks that are inspired by the shapes and styles of the wild, optimistic years of the early 60s. He played daringly with proportion and got away with it.

The trim military coat, an enduring classic of the house, gave way to increasingly exaggerated, almost awkward silhouettes. The sleeves took the brunt of it with rounded shoulders, bulky pleat details and over-sized flares. Yet, an unlikely elegance is achieved and Bailey’s signature coats remain as delectable and desirable as ever (if not more so).

Freddie Mercury’s anguished rendition of It’s A Hard Life is the perfect companion to the androgynous, sweater-pants outfits that were a staple among confident young ladies of the swinging decade. However, as Adele’s soulful voice belted out Someone Like You, the looks mellowed and became more feminine with all-white ensembles and a generous dose of mink. – Dorothy Tan

While I wasn’t sure about the huge bowler bags with exaggerated tassels or the rounded granny purses, I am officially in love with the clutches from the runway collection. Technically considered a sling bag (yes, it does come with a shoulder strap as well), I love how Christopher Bailey took a current trend, ie, satchels, and gave it a generous dose of 60′s love.

With prices starting from SGD2195 (coated canvas and leather) and up to SGD12,995 for the ones in exotic alligator, I still can’t decide which one I particularly love the most. In other words, just pick any one from the selection here and you’ll be set for the rest of the season.

Perhaps it is the proportion, or the contrast of materials used, or even all the care and attention put into the detailing, but all in all, these clutches look set to rank high on my list of favourites for F/W11. – Bagaholicboy

Images: Style