Harvey Nichols Birmingham hosts a Spring/Summer 12 preview
Last Saturday, the brightest and best of Birmingham’s style bloggers risked the threat of incoming snow to enjoy a touch of Spring. The iconic Harvey Nichols store in the Mailbox hosted a special Spring/Summer preview,complete with fashion show, trend reports and an opportunity for a store walk. And, this being Harvey Nicks, all that fashion was complimented with lashings of champagne.
The fashion show was a perfect opportunity to introduce some of the new designs coming to the Birmingham store. There was no Victoria by Victoria Beckham, as this collection had literally fled out of the door, snapped up by eager fans who worship at the cult of Beckham. But there was Philip Armstrong, favourite of Dannii Minogue, and already proving to be a big hit with stylish Birmingham ladies. The beautifully structured white and black lace dress was both futuristic and feminine, and when teamed with the highest Louboutins I had ever seen, really had the Wow! factor. There was also a black version, which had a more decadent, brocade style look.
There were short and sexy dresses from the icons. Just Cavali showcased a bright floral print that was clearly designed for sultry hot nights on the dance floor. M for Missoni also showcased a bright mini, but this had a more laid back 60s feel. Think Sharon Tate in Valley of the Dolls, Brigitte Bardot in San Tropez or that modern-day Mia Farrow, Michelle Williams.
My two favourite looks were both from Pinko. The first had a very 1990s influence, and tied neatly into the summer staple of white. This was a beautiful and delicate leopard print Jacquard dress that almost had the feel of a negligee. It was teamed with a draped jacket and raybans for a luxe grunge look. The second look was a stunning boho style maxi dress that incorporated print and beading for the perfect holiday look.
A store walk enabled bloggers an opportunity to enjoy all the other collections on sale at Harvey Nichols this season. Markus Lupfer was a definite favourite of mine, I’ve been a huge fan of his quirky knitwear forever, and this season I adore the embellished flamingoes and handbag designs.
Malene Birger was another favourite, featuring a collection of dresses in a black and vanilla palette. This was a 1930s influenced collection, bias cut evening gowns that looked like they belonged to the golden age of Hollywood.
My other favourites were those American classics Michael Kors and DVF. I loved that Von Furstenberg featured colour block dresses that almost had a sporty 1920s feel to them, whilst Michael Kors AQincorporated the sort of nautical tinged features (stripes, navy and white, chain details) that just scream Spring. The cream and gold cardigan was just stunning.
Thanks must go to Lisa Piddington and Harvey Nichols for this wonderful event. Everyone enjoyed it and it was a fabulous opportunity to get an up close view of all the new season trends and styling.