To say I'm enamoured of the glamorous era of the 70's is an understatement. I adore Bianca Jagger, Debbie Harry and Liza Minelli from the days of Studio 54. The silhouettes were elegant, with deep-V's, softly draping jersey dresses, and wide-legged pants.
Imagine my excitement when the lights lowered on the Hilary MacMillan Spring/Summer 2016 show, and the funk music started. Did I mention that the music was live? And amazing?
Once the models started strutting, I was simply beside myself!
The clothes were in rich tones of emerald, grape and deep teal, along with a spectacular peacock print. The silhouettes were varied, with flowy tunic dresses and crop tops with culottes, also structured crop pants, blazers and a phenomenal wrap skirt. The silk dresses were sexy, with a strapless, halter or slip-dress options. If office appropriate options are your jam, there were shirtdresses, and an amazing sleeveless vest! The collection felt clean and modern, while giving a nod to the past, all without looking costume-y. This is retro for grown-ups.
The inspiration for this collection came from a visit to a village in Tanzania, where Hilary volunteered at a children's home. The children and women were optimistic, with a determination to empower themselves, get an education and hope for a better future.
While at the local marketplaces, Hilary found a particular print with shades of green, purple and gold which then became the centre-piece for the whole collection. As a feminist, this was extremely inspiring and also humbling.
The collection also contains a silk tee with the head of a peacock, which was painted by her Mom! How cute is that? Every Hilary MacMillan collection has a wonderful family-oriented detail in the pattern choices. It makes me so happy when there is a personal element to a design. It's like each piece has a part of the designer's heart in it. Gives me the feels!
The beauty look of the show called to mind a soft, sunkissed elegance. The skin had a lit-from-within glow using shades of peach and bronze. The eyes had washes of the same shades, with lots of lashes, and the lip had a gentle coral stain. Hair was centre-parted with soft waves cascading down. The jewellery was minimal, only gold lariats around the neck. Oversized sunglasses and the occasional headwrap sent down the runway, added to the breezy summer vibe. The whole aesthetic was extremely chic!
all photos - George Pimental
I will leave you with some more images from the show, for drooling purposes. Visit hilarymacmillan.com for a full list of retail locations, which include Monaco, BTW! Don't forget to keep an eye on my Twitter and Instagram for images from the Hilary MacMillan show on Wednesday at 7, and if you're a fan, don't miss Hilary's Twitter page! This is a very cool lady!
Donna Xoxo
