Red, white and blue evoke a sporty albeit upscale look this season. Designers Derek Lam and Nanette Lepore embrace classic silhouettes and detailed finishes. Still the queen of the white dress shirt, French designer Anne Fontaine says American women will adopt trends with a sense of fun and versatility. “They are very casual and sporty when they travel,” says Fontaine, who launched her latest collection at South Coast Plaza. “But when they’re at their job or they go out, American women are more sophisticated than the French. They have several different looks where French women prefer to create one style.” From sporty jumpsuits to playful key rings, the tone this summer is patriotic with a touch of panache.
Chanel’s spring/summer 2016 handbag collection embraces a sense of wanderlust. Vibrant roller and bowling bags hit the runway, inspiring thoughts of far-off vacations. This retro-inspired tweed and calfskin backpack ($3,600) is an ideal carry-on for cross-country jaunts or weekend excursions. Available at Chanel, South Coast Plaza :: chanel.com
Known for his signature red soles, shoe maven Christian Louboutin embraces another striking hue for these electric blue suede sandals ($1,195) adorned with leather laces. Available at Christian Louboutin, South Coast Plaza :: us.christianlouboutin.com
Gucci reworked the preppy oxford sweater and tailored it into a striking cotton and lace knit top ($1,390). The bright red floral overlay blooms with detail, softening the classic V-neck. Available at Gucci, South Coast Plaza. :: gucci.com
Derek Lam outfits the likes of Michelle Obama, Julianne Moore and Jessica Alba. In June 2011, when he launched his Derek Lam 10 Crosby line, the designer’s goal was to develop a polished urban look for every day. His tie-waist poplin shirtdress ($365) evokes an A-line silhouette with a twist. The pleated skirt is a spin-off of a sporty tennis dress, making it an instant ace. Available at Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island. :: neimanmarcus.com
Diane von Furstenberg released a playful line of accessories including this leather star charm ($48) that bursts with lapis blue, white and red. Available at Diane von Furstenberg, South Coast Plaza. :: dvf.com
Hermès revamps Jean Paul Gaultier’s 2008 Jypsière handbag. Similar to the original, the updated version evokes the roving Gypsy spirit and works as a petite messenger bag fashioned as a traditional hunting purse ($8,500) with a modern twist. The updated model comes with a small cellphone pocket. Available at Hermès, South Coast Plaza. :: hermes.com
For five decades M.i.h. jeans has created accessible denim apparel for women. The Montara all-in-one ($425) jumpsuit features straight cut legs and flared sleeves. Available at Laguna Supply. :: mih-jeans.com
American designer Nanette Lepore combines soft lines with bohemian embroidered details for this long-sleeve peasant dress ($428). The blue scalloped cuffs and hemline add an elegant touch to the beachy off-the-shoulder silhouette. :: nanettelepore.com