A postcard from paradise

Have you ever wished you had lived in another era simply for the clothes? Whatever your sartorial preferences, it’s impossible not to think back to the glamorous heyday of 1960s Palm Springs when looking at Carolina Herrera’s latest collection. Featuring graphic prints, bold colors and ladylike silhouettes, the playful pieces conjure images of photographer Slim Aarons’ iconic poolside scenes.

Designer Wes Gordon describes the label’s founder Carolina Herrera as “the life of the party”, and aims to capture that same sense of exuberance in the Cruise ’19 collection – his first as creative director. “I was inspired by the dream of Palm Springs and its eclectic glamour,” he explains. “The new season is defined by color-blocking, graphic florals and hearts, and mixes of Vermillion with Cayenne, Flamingo Pink with Juniper, and Herrera Red against Bright White.”

Combining ’60s futurist fashion influences with an American sensibility, the collection has everything you need for the perfect jet-set wardrobe. “Enchanted by the fantasy of poolside desert living, this collection is filled with ease, playfulness and femininity,” says Gordon. Look to this season’s spotted jacquard dress, featuring side cutouts that highlight your waist and a plunging neckline that leads to a twisted knot, as an elegant option for alfresco dinners and sundown cocktails. Then there’s the ‘Flamingo Pink’ tailored blazer, perfect for throwing on over dresses on chilly evenings, or teaming with the coordinating pants for smarter occasions. For poolside parties, the multicolored striped tulle column gown is the ultimate in exotic elegance – simply team with white leather slides and a pair of oversized sunglasses by day, then add some bright resin bangles and an embroidered clutch to add impact after dark.

As lovers of the label will have come to expect, dresses are a highlight within the collection, with Gordon describing them as “a celebration of bright color and unexpected combinations, evoking a feminine and playful occasion”. From printed midi styles with fluted skirts to fit-and-flare designs, the shapes are plentiful: off-the-shoulder cuts and V-necklines add a modern edge, while nipped-in waists and full skirts create a flattering silhouette. The beauty of such artfully crafted pieces is that they can work around the clock – simply switch your flats for heels to go from day to night in style.

Staying true to Carolina Herrera’s design signature, Gordon reinforces a commitment to the strong codes established by the founder, blending traditions of couture craftsmanship with the wearability and pragmatism of American Fashion. The result? Truly timeless, love-forever clothes.