Loud and clear

The transparency trend that started to gain momentum in AW18 with the arrival of Vetements’ mesh ‘granny’ bag has reached full pellucid levels with clear PVC pieces taking over our spring/summer accessories collection.

Originally introduced during the Youthquake revolution in the 1960’s, the likes of Pierre Cardin, Paco Rabanne and Andre Courreges turned plastic fashion into the uniform of the modern woman. After a resurgence in the late 1970s during the punk era, black PVC in particular became synonymous with fetishism thanks to Vivienne Westwood and up until recently has stayed that way.

We saw a few subtle nods to the plastic trend last season with vinyl trousers and shrink-wrapped trench coats but SS19 has gone and fully embraced these see-through styles. Whether you are showing off all your essentials by way of a Staud Shirley bag or flashing your newly pedicured toes in a Nicholas Kirkwood boot, ease yourself into this experimental look with a carefully selected plastic accessory.

Ensuring you’re up to date with the hottest barely-there PVC pieces, our womenswear buyers have selected their must-haves for the season.

The demi-couture shoe designer that makes us feel like a contemporary Cinderella, Midnight 00 wraps their pointed pumps in decorative plastic, giving a tulle-like effect. These statement duchesse satin heels are encased in PVC which makes them the ideal party proof piece - spilt cocktails are not a problem here.

With a logo that looks like it is floating, this Prada tote lets the brand do the talking. Minimal yet mighty, this bag offers itself as a mere accent to your worldly belongings and even comes with an inner bag so you aren’t completely exposed.

If like us you reside in London, high fashion pieces that have the dual purpose of being rainproof are essential. Protect your ankles whilst showing them off with these Perspex Nicholas Kirkwood ankle boots.

One of the most spotted bags at London Fashion Week (and Browns HQ), the Staud Shirley bag is less of a must have, more of a necessity. Simple and undeniably chic, it is the ideal sized tote for every day and brings new meaning to ‘a bag for life’.

We can’t live without our chunky sneakers these days and thankfully Stella McCartney has given her signature Eclypse trainer the Perspex treatment. Pair with your favourite neon socks from Off-White to show them off the right way.

8th March 2019
The Lowdown What To Wear