As you might know, I've been contributing to the online magazine, Fashion Maniac. Some of my reviews (like this one) appear both there and here. I've been doing a lot of freelance work lately and, as a result, The Bostonista has been a bit neglected. I figure two birds with one stone, you don't mind do you?
Anyway, on to Charlotte Ronson's SS 2013 collection!
Runway Images Photographed by CHERYL GORSKI/FashionManiac.com
Despite being born in London and raised in New York, designer Charlotte Ronson’s line has always had a California girl vibe. I’ve always thought of Charlotte as more of a socialite than a designer thanks to her privileged background and close friendships with celebrities like Nicole Richie, Nicky Hilton and Ashlee Simpson, but it’s clear that she does have a talent for creating cool girl frocks. Over the past few seasons her aesthetic has matured from grunge to a sophisticated sexy.
For Spring 2013, Charlotte embraced her girlie side with sheer paneling and nipped waists. Ronson told Style.Com that she was inspired by waves and light reflecting on the ocean as seen in her pastel palette and shapes. A standout example came from look 11:
The form fitting gray-blue denim reflected light with its thin stripes and white polka dotted sheer back.
Meanwhile, the waves influence was almost comically literal in a color blocked cutout dress that would have been better as just a flirty blue skirt but Charlotte is at her best when she relaxes and goes more casual with jumpsuits, bra tops and leather.
Charlotte obviously wants to continue to grow as a designer and appeal to a wider audience. Unfortunately, the boucle suits and shift dresses just felt too forced. Her evolution from tomboy to girlie girl is appealing enough, and, besides, the Charlotte Ronson girl doesn’t want, or need, “office wear.”
This season also marks the launch of Charlotte Ronson Handbags, which is sure to please her established fan base. From trendy leather bucket bags to ladylike satchels and slouchy clutches, Charlotte has the perfect bag for any occasion. I suspect that many an “It” girl will be carrying the Mine Mini Miaudiere and Classic Floppy Tote come spring!
Thank you to my wonderful Fashion Maniac editor Phillip Johnson and Fashion Maniac's EIC/Photographer Cheryl Gorski!
