California Dreaming

There’s a reason why Californian style is such a perennial favorite among fashion’s most stylish. That low-key, understated vibe is pretty hard to resist, especially when it makes getting dressed so easy. It’s an aesthetic that’s woven through the DNA of Los Angeles-based label, Vince. Ever since it was founded in 2002, Vince has earned die-hard fans around the world thanks to its knack for conjuring pieces that hit that sought-after sweet spot: elevated enough to feel special, yet effortless enough to wear day in, day out. These are fuss-free clothes that you’ll reach for every morning on repeat, safe in the knowledge that they’ll take you to the office and out for dinner later with style and ease.

The brand’s SS19 offering mines the Californian landscape for inspiration when it comes to color palette: the blue of the Pacific Ocean mixed with dusty, earthy reds and the khaki and olive green of the hills that roll down to it – chic shades that perfectly complement the line-up of uncomplicated, clean-lined clothes. There’s a glut of soft, androgynous tailoring to bolster your working wardrobe and impeccable, simple tanks and blouses to layer underneath. If you need to guard against dips in temperature then you can reach for the array of knits – a tried-and-tested Vince staple – and throw them on over slouchy wide-leg pants, wear-anywhere midi skirts lightly peppered with utility details, or a pair of neatly tailored shorts. You’ll be wanting a well-stocked arsenal of dresses to call upon, too, so look to the crisp throw-on-and-go shirt dresses or the quiet elegance of the silky slips. And round things off with a trench and a pair of part sturdy, part sexy sandals. The collection is a go-to for each and every building block you could need in your closet over the coming months.

And, if any more proof were needed of the desirability of the collection, then the atmospheric film that accompanies it should do the trick. Vince enlisted director and writer Zal Batmanglij (the man behind The OA and The Sound of my Voice) to make a short that celebrates not just the clothes but the label’s West Coast roots. Entitled Night Swim, it’s set against the backdrop of the Paramour Estate, a striking historic mansion in LA’s Silver Lake, and stars a crop of the city’s notable young artists, writers and musicians. They start their evening clad in the label’s most-wanted offerings, only to strip off and jump into pool before being caught and having to make a quick exit. It’s carefree and quietly cool – just like Vince.