For a collection inspired by a kite, Phillip Lim not only has me soaring but singing as well…Let’s go fly a kite up to the highest height. Let’s go fly a kite and send it soaring. Up through the atmosphere, up.
Now that I am done making a fool of myself quoting a Disney childhood favorite, I can say that Phillip Lim’s “kite”-song managed to do just what Mary Poppins, Bert, and the kids wanted to do, but in fashion form– create a fabulous athletic inspired sportswear collection that is not only airy, light and comfy looking, but one that is tailored and structured enough to soar to the highest height. The minimalism of his collection created a moment of calm and clarity amongst the bold and loud that marked many of the Spring 2012 collections.
Lim’s collection featured airy, wind-struck looks that emit a sporty and comfortable feel while maintaining a ladylike sophistication created by sharp tailoring and elegant draping. While it can be tempting for most women to choose fashion over comfort, with this collection, you can have both. I am all for the comfort-chic look if it includes oversized jackets with tail collars, racerback tanks and dresses with geometric billowing ruffles, dual-zipper trousers that expand and contract to the desired fit, slouchy trousers with tuxedo stripes clear jackets and footwear.
Lim’s collection also included what are sure to become Spring 2012’s biggest trends (as evidenced by their ubiquity on all major runways!) such as sherbert shades, sporty styles, color-blocking, leather, cutouts, sheerness, geometric inspiration, metallic detailing, slouchy suiting, all white ensembles, clear detailed shoes, ankle strapped shoes, mesh, and exposed zippers.
While this collection was more minimal and subdued than many of the others, Lim proved that the less-is-more approach can pack a powerful punch. The funky shaped and colored handbags and shoes add a touch of boldness and drama, but not enough to weigh these kites down and prevent them from soaring into flight. More than the bold accessories, the functionality of many items — jackets and tops folding into totes, breakaway coats and pants, expanding and contracting pant legs, all of which were a product of Lim’s creative genius — prove that this collection, although minimalistic, is definitely not boring.
Personally, I am ready to fasten my seat belt and take off in this chic sportswear collection, but if you cannot wait until Spring to reach new heights with this collection take a look at my 3.1 Phillip Lim Spring 2012 inspired pieces below that will help you fly up, up and away for now…
ASOS Sheer Stripe Dress with Variagated Stripe Layers, $91.48. This ASOS dress definitely has that kite feel with its rectangular panels and lightweight sheer look. Not only kite-esque, but it’s also a funky take on the classic LBD.
Modekungen Old Days Vest, $89. My favorite item from Lim’s collection was the oversized denim vest. Follow Lim’s lead and pair this similar style with a flirty skirt for an unexpected grunge-meets-glam style.
3.1 Phillip Lim Contrast Back Tee, $295. Go straight to the source for a sporty, yet airy look with a cool color-blocked twist.
Helmut Lang Paneled Lace Racerback Sweater, $220. Lim and many other designers had some crazy cutouts going on this season. This lightweight sweater is the perfect way to bring the trend into your fall look.
Sonia Rykiel Ruffle Pants, $1,120. These incredible pants may be a bit pricey, but they achieve that comfy slouchy-without-being-sloppy look executed so perfectly on Lim’s runway. They also have some ruffle kite-like details, so you’ll totally be ahead of the curve on this trend!
Tibi Ruffle Pants, $378. If the style above is a bit outside your budget, try this silky, sweetly-slouchy style on for size. This style will also help liven up your fall wardrobe with a dose of Spring’s sherbert trend.
Parker Ruffle Dress, $188. This sporty yet feminine racer-back dress has that comfy, wind-struck vibe we saw on Lim’s runway.
Zara Court Shoe with Mirrored Heel, $89.90. Lim used metallic shoes to infuse his sporty styles with a dose of glam. Help your feet shine during the gloomier months with these classic and chic pumps.
Topshop Side Striped Tapered Trousers, $120. Lim featured several pants with that fun racing stripe, which gave his look an extra sporty edge. Try on these Topshop Side Striped Tapered Trousers to get that tailored, yet sporty look.
Cleobella Women’s Neka Clutch, $260. This Cleobella clutch has a cool geometric pattern similar to Lim’s, making a statement without being too wild.
– SARA STERNBERG
Written by Sabrina Alexis
