With the promise of Spring on the horizon, Violet Grace breaks down her most coveted wardrobe pieces from up-and-coming designers and shows you how to wear them.
As a creative director and fashion influencer, Violet Grace knows what it takes to transform individual items from your wardrobe into show-stopping outfits. Be it a new take on old classics, the perfect pair of sunglasses or an evening gown with unexpected wow moments, Violet’s curiosity for accessories and emerging trends brings a unique sophistication and element of fun to fashion. Here, she breaks down the international designers and key styles to celebrate for SS22.
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Textural transcendence
“The texture of a piece is one of the first things I look for when putting a look together.”
Both contemporary and classic in its glamour, Solace London are known for their bold, confident and refined designs. Founded by Laura Taylor and Ryan Holliday-Stevens in 2013, these longtime friends have crafted a stakement-making brand, known for its precision cuts. This off-the-shoulder gown is the perfect example thanks to its oversized sleeves, ruched detailing and fitted waist.
“It takes this idea of ‘just a black dress’ and throws it out the window.”
To complement the sleek sophistication of the floor-length dress, Violet recommends accessorising with pieces that are understated but still draw the eye like the Alexander McQueen Croc Bag and a pair of Aquazzura heels.
“This bag is perfection, with the knuckle-duster element providing a manicured moment. Keeping the shoe strappy with the jewelled stilettos balances out the weight of the shoulder detail in the dress. It’s always about balance.”
Summer sun
“Cat-eye specs are flattering on every face shape and accentuate your cheekbones and lips.”
Undoubtedly the must-have accessory this summer, Violet says the statement shape can be integrated into your wardrobe by paring things back and letting the frames do the talking.
The LA-based Anine Bing label is made for those seeking a timeless yet rebellious approach to style. “Sometimes put-together simplicity is the most elegant option and for me, this look exudes French-girl chic.” says Violet.
Feminine form
“This piece is all about the body and accentuating those feminine curves.”
While pairing a figure-hugging piece with simplistic heel for an everyday casual look is always a great option, Violet says opting for a statement shoe like The Attico’s Perine Pump with its blue lucite heel allows your individuality to shine through. The Attico was, afterall, born out of a shared love for glamour and sparkle by its Milan-based founders.
“Having a statement shoe with the dress not only expresses your personality but also draws the eye down the full length of the dress and adds a nice finishing touch.”
Statement stilettos
Paired with a bold dress, skirt or top, a nude heel is, as Violet says, “a gift that keeps on giving when it comes to being a wardrobe staple: they go with everything.”
For an updated twist on the classic pump, Grace recommends the Tom Ford padlock stiletto, which creates an eye-catching detail while also allowing a statement look like Solace London’s fiery red Giana skirt and Nahla top to sing.
“Tom Ford is one of those brands that epitomises sexy-luxury. I adore the lock and key detailing on this pair and think the golden stiletto heel is perfection.”
Laid back luxe
For a spring look that’s casual and off-duty chic, Violet points to the Isabel Marant canvas tote, which offers style and functionality in equal parts.
“I can already picture this Isabel Marant tote perched on a Sydney cove beach with me this Summer: full to the brim with strawberries, sunscreen and books.”
Teamed with a summer print dress and sandals, it’s a perfect look for the social media grid.
