Power Pieces
Roland Mouret’s bold pre-fall ’19 collection is the answer to day-to-night dressing
From the looser silhouettes of the 1920s to the voluminous proportions of the 1980s, designer Roland Mouret looked back at two different but no-less definitive eras in Western history for pre-fall, resulting in a collection richly inspired by social change and its impact on feminine self-expression. “I’m inspired when I see how women style my clothes to suit their own identity,” says Mouret of his creative process, “so I look at this collection as a way to inspire others to be inspired.”
Gaining worldwide acclaim in 2005 with the launch of the now-iconic ‘Galaxy’ dress, Mouret is renowned for his curve-enhancing aesthetic and finesse in draping. A natural transition for the French-born designer, this season sees the introduction of more relaxed, looser silhouettes – think draped dresses, pussy-bow blouses and wide-leg pants – that give women the freedom to live life without restrictions.
Loyalists of the label will be pleased to know that Mouret’s emblematic design codes are as strong as ever, of course. The designer starts his draping at the mannequin with a 360-degree approach to creating the silhouette, ensuring that exceptional detailing captures the eye from every angle. Tailoring is imbued with an easy femininity as dresses and jackets feature trailing peplums or tie details to cinch at the waist, maintaining elements of structure that flatter the body. With its striking red hue and ruffled hem, the immaculately tailored ‘Hollywell’ coat is one of the standout pieces of the season, while the yellow asymmetric ‘Arch’ dress is set to be a day-to-night essential – perfect for myriad occasions.
After a few seasons of more muted palettes, pre-fall also sees a return to strong color. Shades of tomato-red, marigold-yellow and cobalt-blue make a powerful impression within the collection and are perfectly offset by classic pieces in a neutral palette of black, white and cream.
Of course, no Roland Mouret collection would be complete without a few statement evening pieces to see you through the season’s events in style. Off-the-shoulder tops and pussy-bow tunics can be dressed up or down for whatever the occasion requires, while the sleek white ‘Bethany’ jumpsuit is an instant showstopper with its square neckline and sculptural cuffs. The vibrant contradiction of colors and strong silhouettes come together to create an eclectic collection.