Chloé – romance for the modern woman
From diaphanous dresses to utilitarian playsuits and a bevy of wish-list-worthy accessories, Parisian powerhouse Chloé might be known for its romantic aesthetic, but the label’s effortlessly elegant SS20 collection was designed with the rigors of real life in mind
Despite the fact that many of us spend the winter months longing for sun, warm-weather dressing can actually be remarkably challenging, particularly when you’re spending summer in the city. Getting it right requires a deft balance of practicality and prettiness. Enter Parisian label par excellence Chloé. Long associated with Left Bank intellectuals and style mavens, the brand’s feminine yet notably unfussy designs – not to mention its knack for creating ‘It’ accessories – make summer dressing a cinch.
Founded in 1952 by designer Gaby Aghion, the house immediately made waves thanks to its luxurious take on prêt-à-porter and elegant yet effortless offering. In the years since, a number of needle-pushing designers have helmed the iconic French label, including Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney, Phoebe Philo and Clare Waight Keller. It was in 2017 that Natacha Ramsay-Levi took up the mantel and brought the label squarely into the 21st century. This season, Ramsay-Levi pushed her analysis of French élan even further, with a faultless collection brimming with timely yet timeless pieces made to be worn, and cherished, forever.
“This season, Ramsay-Levi pushed her analysis of French élan… with a faultless collection brimming with timely yet timeless pieces
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Dreamy dresses have long been a signature of the house, and there was no shortage of them in the SS20 collection. A failsafe choice whether you’re dressing for date night, a garden party, work or even an off-duty day, a pleated silk maxi dress, complete with bell sleeves and cast in a mood-enhancing apricot hue, is endlessly wearable. Similarly, ivory and blush-colored smock dresses work just as well layered under blazers or oversized knits as they do with sun-kissed skin on the beach. This versatility is a masterstroke from Ramsay-Levi, who, season after season, imbues Chloé’s ’70s spirit with a modern sensibility.
Ardent brand fans will also be aware that Chloé is every fashion insider’s go-to house when it comes to finding a chic pair of shorts. This season, true to form, Ramsay-Levi has taken this essential part of the brand DNA and produced an utterly fresh interpretation. Taking the utilitarian idea one step further, she sent safari-style playsuits down the runway along with sculptural wide-leg culottes, perfect for women who want to lighten up their look but don’t feel that micro-shorts are right for them. Cut from cotton poplin, these pieces were made to breathe, making them a necessary addition to any woman’s summer closet. If it’s balmy island evenings or rooftop parties you’re dressing for, be sure to pair your culottes with a one-shouldered, or similarly playful, top to keep your look elevated.
“Under Ramsay-Levi, Chloé accessories have acquired even greater importance… bringing gravitas to the look
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It would be impossible to discuss Chloé without at least touching on its accessories. Season after season, the house has produced cult bags and boots. However, under Ramsay-Levi the accessories have acquired even greater importance as, in many cases, they bring gravitas to the look, and it’s this balance of masculine and feminine elements that sets her Chloé woman apart. From butter-soft leather bags – the Darryl tote and Daria top-handle styles are top of our wish list right now – to platform sandals and quintessentially Parisian ankle boots, these pieces will slot effortlessly into your existing closet and provide the perfect finishing touch to literally any look.
Chloé’s impressive, inclusive and diverse list of brand fans – including Gwyneth Paltrow, Julianne Moore, KiKi Layne and Kelala – is testament to its ability to create clothes that both excite and inspire modern women. Making them the perfect choice not only for summer, but for every season.