The autumn collection shown in New York in February drew inspiration from Manhattan local and ceramicist Francesca DiMattio, whose sculptures were dotted around the catwalk and who designed the statement prints for the collection in collaboration with Burch. The designer says DiMattio’s artwork “imbues the decorative with strength and power,” challenging ideas of femininity by putting a modern twist on traditionally female norms: pastel colours, beading, basket weaving, and florals, to name a few.
It’s clear to see the influences in the new Tory Burch collection. Not only in the joyful colours and bricolage of prints and textures reflecting DiMattio’s mixed material techniques but also more subtly in how Burch contrasts the decorative and feminine elements with masculine silhouettes. An ornate silk dress is paired with a structured leather jacket, Edwardian high-neck tailoring comes in a romantic floral print, and calf-skimming floaty skirts are finished off with a pair of strong leather boots.
The result is a collection that reflects the multifaceted nature of what a woman’s wardrobe, and personality, looks like these days, which is ultimately what makes it so desirable and, importantly, wearable. There is a look in this collection to suit every occasion or mood, whether that’s an effortless throw-on printed dress for a busy day of meetings; the perfect minimal trench-coat look for weekends; a classic confidence-boosting suit; and, of course, a pair of killer Lila boots to wear with everything. This is the ultimate capsule wardrobe for the present day.
