Space Grrrl

I have been paging through my April edition of Elle UK again over the past few days, and have found myself pausing over editorial pages containing some very sleek, minimalistic designs with futuristic accents. I’m not talking about the Phoebe Philo minimalism of seasons past here; all beigey and silken and refined wools and sophisticated (although that is certainly lovely in its own right). This new futuristic minimalism has a bit of a bite to it; some humor injected into an almost retro simplicity (and you know how I like my clothes to have a sense of humor), and featuring out-there accents such as clear plastics and super-reflective metallics. Sort of a fusion between the sporty trends of this spring, the bold monochromacity of the 60’s, and the alien spaceship from Tim Burton’s Mars Attacks.

I love this look for summer, as I think that you have the ability to mess about with style a lot more when the weather is warm. I particularly like the look of metallic silver against a crisp white shirt, pant, or little white dress. Here are some of my picks:

Top left: Raoul cape at Shopbop, Norma Kamali bathing suit at Moda Operandi, Topshop parka
Bottom: Herve Leger dress, Mango tote bag, and Lynn Bann cuff at Moda Operandi

As with any trend that employs a certain amount of humour in its use of unusual and eye-catching materials, less is probably more. Perhaps that is why this trend lends itself well to this season’s footwear. When worn with simple elements (that you may already very-well have hanging in your closet), they transform a look without trying too hard.

From top left: Alejandro Ingelmo at Shopbop, all others Topshop. 

I also can’t help but notice that square-toed block heels are starting to elbow their way back into the fashion vernacular. While again this is likely another manifestation of the retro 60s space girl effect, I can’t help but begin to channel my 90’s self in those square-toed sandals with their chunky block heels and sturdy soles. My Seattle-living, Riot Grrrrl, Soundgarden-worshipping, soy latte-swilling,  90’s self.

But if we suddenly start seeing that 90’s dark burgundy-brown matte lipstick appearing again,

MAC lipstick in Diva

well, I am going to have to put my foot down. My silver-manicured, clear plastic ankle-strapped, metallic block-heeled foot.