Charlotte Ronson’s collection shed the 90s-chic layering from last spring and moved into lighter pieces that together seemed to present ideas of femininity for every age — from the patch-worked overalls and sweet floral jumpers that reminded The Observer of our own childhood, to fitted dresses that celebrated the female silhouette, and the belt-as-collar accessories that emphasized slender necklines.
For the “Victorian” pieces, as Ms. Ronson describes them, long hemlines and high-buttoned collars kept things delicate without showing too much skin. The not-so-Victorian sheer fabrics, on the other hand, kept the pieces summery and flirtatious.
While Ms. Ronson’s dresses conjured up sophisticated garden parties, the Bohemian knits made us want to lie in the park, whiling time away. Crop tops and light sweaters kept the knitwear from feeling too heavy.
The dip-dye trend was still present in this season’s collection, but with added nuance — an asymmetric cut, a strategic color placement — that gave the pieces an air of sartorial maturity.
The Observer’s favorite look? The silver polka-dotted sheer blouse and matching skirt, with light denim details for the collar, breast pockets and waistband.
It would be appropriate, given the lady-power at play, that she stack the front row with her girls: Nicky Hilton, Kelly Osbourne, Leandra Medine, and DJ Chelsea Leyland. Let’s not forget the copious amount of beauty products given out at every seat, including lip gloss samples from Ms. Ronson’s new makeup line (worn by the runway models), and the awesome dancey S/S soundtrack compiled by sister Samantha. Ronson-to-Ronson synergy!
Even though fall has barely arrived, the collection made us excited for spring — though, as we left the air-conditioned venue, frozen kefir in hand to ward off the still-syrupy humidity, we wish we had some of the pieces now. At least we have the lip gloss.
