It is never a good idea when reviewing a collection, to bring your own personal aesthetic into consideration. One has to distance one's self and apply the same set of criteria to each collection (in my case it is fabrication, construction, narrative), comparing and contrasting this collection with others the designer has produced, others other designers have produced this season and the general fashion trend and commercial viability of the collection.
But sometimes it all falls apart when you share a similar yen to the designer. Elaine (Olive) du Plessis and her new business partner, Michael, produced a collection so tight, so minimalist and focused — and so close to my personal taste — that it was difficult to separate my professional review from an opportunity to shop for next season.
Having said that, they ticked all the boxes. Properly. There was no wasted opportunity here. No missteps. No untold story. It was a really good collection, with just enough trend, a perfect amount of unique creativity and solid craftsmanship. But all I could think was how soon can I get that midi skirt. Sigh.
Photos by Ivan Naude