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Manning Cartell Spring Summer 2012/13
A model showcases designs by Manning Cartell on the catwalk. Photo: Getty Images
You know that feeling when you're in a church or school or somewhere where you're meant to be quiet and all you want to do is talk? That's a bit how it felt at the Manning Cartell show, held in the Scots Church Building in Darlinghurst. It's something about sitting on a pew. Though I'd say that most of the label's latest collection, Absent Portrait, was not really church appropriate wear, not with the fluoro and the midriff and the flouncy, flirty culottes.
Anyway, inspired by artist Frida Kahlo and her fondness for colour and layering, there was plenty of clashing prints and textures, including an excellent houndstooth print, loads of floral and appliqued rosettes dotted several numbers. A certain sporty luxe vibe flowed throughout, making itself known in fluoro stripes on jersey trousers and shorts, bomber jackets, midriff baring tops and loose fits. The colour patten featured plenty of white, pink and green. But floral was indeed the star, and I for one am glad of it. The closing number went in a quite different direction with a high-necked wrought iron lace frock complete with a sweet peplum. The flowiness and the clashing prints were anchored by structured jackets and use of stiffer fabrics such as jacquard and leather fashioned into more directional pieces. But as afore mentioned I've a weakness for floral and that remains my favourite. Sequins also made a welcome appearance in big jaggery ones, adding to the effect of movement and lightness.
