Fashion Commentator Glynis Traill-Nash On Transseasonal Trends, Lace & Megan Gale’s Latest Swimwear Collection

By Fashion Commentator Glynis Traill-Nash

Transseasonal Trends

We’re entering that no-man’s land of season crossover, when that winter chill still hangs in the air but the stores are starting to fill up with pieces for spring. No matter. Over the next few weeks we’ll cover off some great trends that will see you through to the end of winter and become firm favourites for spring…

Lace

Lace was a major textile trend for winter and is still looking good for summer. When left to the likes of Dolce & Gabbana, black lace becomes the epitome of sexy; use it in white for a wedding dress and it’s pure romance (just ask Kate Middleton). Lace also takes on boho beautifully (Gail Elliott knows all about that for her Little Joe Woman label), and even works on accessories—lace clutches and shoes work a treat. Given the texture and “busyness” of the textile, keep shapes simple: a sheath just like this example from David Lawrence (left); or a long-sleeved ’70s-style shift dress (look for jagged hem versions at Friend of Mine); a shell top, or a stretch tee from Mela Purdie; even more tailored pieces such as a blazer can work beautifully, as Lanvin’s fall show proved. Aside from black and white, a number of labels are offering colourful lace pieces come spring. Maurie & Eve have bright blue playsuits and ochre dresses, while Manning Cartell have mustard-coloured open-weave overdresses. And of course Lover sent out bold red lace at Australian Fashion Week. And depending on your preference, you can either opt for chunky cotton laces, or more delicate varieties, better suited to more feminine styles. And if you’re very brave, why not try out lace trousers like those we saw from Zimmermann at RAFW. Just be sure to keep your smalls on the big side.

Lacy Lady

Speaking of lace, here is a sublime red carpet moment featuring the delicate textile. Rose Byrne pulled off a very tricky tonal stunt at the Damages Season 4 premiere in New York. The sheer Valentino Fall 2011 dress is beautifully detailed with lace trims criss-crossed alongside floral appliqués. From the glossy brown locks, plummy brown lips and dress, Byrne is a vision of autumnal beauty. The silver trim shoes just give the right amount of lift to the ensemble. Nothing damaged here.

La Isola Bonita

It seems almost perverse to be shopping for swimwear with the temperature still so low, but perhaps you’re lucky enough to be jetting off to warmer climes soon. If so, Megan Gale’s latest Isola swimwear collection hits stores this week, and it just keeps on getting better. The first drop is filled with bold florals and a black-and-white “confettit” spot print (left). You’ll find flattering one-pieces and tankinis, as well as bikinis proper with—thank all that is good—tops and bottoms sold separately, and there’s a great selection of shapes, including moulded tops and ’50s-style bottoms. Just add water.