Vogue March 2011

After a delayed start, summer is finally here, and if you weren’t convinced before, a quick glance at the cover is sure to change your mind.The bright front positively screams of summer, from the multicoloured lettering (usually always in a single hue), to covergirl Alina Baikova’s Prada stripes, to the single, refreshingly concise buyline of ‘colour fiesta’. Editor Kirstie Clements is quick to point out how the use of colour can have a very positive effect on people, and after the quickest of flicks through the glossy pages beyond, you know she isn’t lying. The entire issue is like one giant electric jolt of colour, which is quite literally carried through from cover to cover. How perfect that the latest round of ad campaigns have been released to coincide with the peak of our summer heat - and they say that in fashion land Australia is a season behind. I’m not sure where else in the world these newest and brightest campaigns would fit in so well but here. From Freja Beha Erichsen in oriental excess for Louis Vuitton, to Constance Jablonski in colour blocked Bally - even with Daria Werbowy laying poolside in Ferragamo- summer is everywhere. After all, this is March, where the new, colour-affected campaigns serve to remind us that this is the first issue in which we get to feast our eyes on the latest and greatest of the spring 2011 collections.

First up is Vogue View, the regular feature that showcases the latest trends of the season; fads that might well be forgotten come next issue, but for the moment seem nothing short of hot. Headings such as ‘Shock Therapy’, ‘Petal Power’ and ‘Berry Ripe’ and their corresponding looks and accessories stay true to the issue’s promise, and make for incredibly addictive reading as opposed to the usual light skim. What I like most in this feature however, is the slightly historical undercurrent, with references being made to 30s legend Elsa Schiaparelli (known for her love of shocking pink), and past pioneers like Diana Vreeland and Anna Piaggi, who have paved the way for current maximialist-of-the-moment, Anna Dello Russo.

Another highlight of the issue is what seems to be a renewed focus on editorial content. The feature on designer Haider Ackermann could not have come at a more opportune time, as fashion news editor Genvra Leek sits down to talk to the man touted by Karl Lagerfeld himself as Chanel’s next creative director. Ackermann’s focus on tailored looks and strong yet soft draping has captured the attention of the fashion set, and his latest Japanese-inspired collection is only sure to see his star burn brighter. Speaking of bright young things, Sydney’s own Dion Lee, the 25-year-old mastermind behind last year’s most talked about RAFW collection is back, this time partnering up with Australian retailer Cue. The 50-piece winter collection will be released in Cue stores later this month, where lovers of minimalist, sophisticated clothes can get a piece of the Dion dream for a fraction of the price. In ‘Dream Weaver’, fashion features editor Natasha McInchley catches up with Tomas Maier, head of creative design at Bottega Veneta. If nothing else, the interview serves as a nice break from all the colour-induced hysteria, appealing to those who favour longevity as opposed to trends, which is exactly what the label stands for. Fashion aside, there is an eclectic mix of opinions, music and books featured in this months Talks.

Finally, what would Vogue be without those greatly anticipated fashion editorials? Fashion editor Meg Gray takes to the suitably festive streets of Mexico, for her ‘Viva la Revolución’ story featuring cover girl Alina Baikova. Lensed by Nicole Bentley, readers are tempted to throw all caution to the winds and step out in the latest Gucci jewel-toned silks, Marni leathers, fruit prints by Stella McCartney and Prada as well as home-grown suggestions in the way of Josh Goot’s digital dresses. Not a single colour leaf is left unturned, and it really is a breath of fresh air when compared to last month’s minimalist palette. And for those who are sent into head spins seeing every colour of the rainbow, there’s Naomi Smith’s- styled ‘Heartbreak Hotel’, the obligatory 80s themed spread with leathers and studs a plenty. Add another spread featuring Australian Ajak Deng in the latest looks for Vuitton, a Mario Testino and Keira Knightley partnership and a 7 page feature on the elusive Mr. Ford, and the days of summer reading just got that little bit more interesting. Oh, and did we mention bright?

Vogue Australia is published under license by News Magazines
Frequency: Monthly
Cover Price: 8.95

For more information visit: www.vogue.com.au