fashion

The Spring/Summer collections from Dorothy Perkins and Miss Selfridge feature eclectic, whimsical looks.

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Chunky accessories brighten up Miss Selfridge outfits.

ALL eyes are on two British brands this spring – Dorothy Perkins and Miss Selfridge – and the focus of their collections this season is soft, feminine dressing.

While the former is inspired by TV series Gossip Girl and the ethnic looks of Bali and Tahiti, the latter takes on a quirky, circus-influenced turn.

Prints are important for Dorothy Perkins, and vary from spots, stripes and checks to cute prints such as bows and butterflies. These sit alongside florals for the preppy look, while ethnic-inspired prints such as batik, tile and border prints are found on lightweight cottons and voiles.

The jacket continues to be a must-have at Dorothy Perkins; the line offers contrast-trim preppy blazers, striped casual styles and embellished trophy jackets. The focus is on legs this season, so blazers are paired with T-shirts tucked into tailored shorts. These can be worn with tights and ankle boots, or with gladiator sandals.

The Spring/Summer collection sees an innovative use of fabrics such as crochet and lace-trimmed, or embellished with sequins and pearls. The importance of texture and contrast of fabrics are defined as the neutral colour palette is soft and light, consisting of creams, peaches, nudes and blush tones.

Accessories from Dorothy Perkins are guaranteed to make a statement this season. Shoes come with an attitude; key styles include heeled, peep-toe ankle-cuff boots and for more of a casual feel, flat worker-style lace-up boots. Bags are slouchy and studded, with suede being the fabric of choice. And, for the evening, the clutch continues to take centrestage.

Stunning outfit from Dorothy Perkins, featuring ethnic-inspired motif, paired with clutch bag and high heels.

Meanwhile, at Miss Selfridge, wearers are ushered into a magical world of carnivals and the circus, as reflected in its eclectic and quirky collection.

Prints, patterns and textures are nonchalantly put together and adorned with bows, ruffles, tiers, frills and fringing to create a whimsical, feminine look.

Florals encapsulate the girly mood with sequin proms, poppy print tea dresses and bustier tops. Cropped jackets are nipped at the waist and teamed with tulle tutus, straw boaters and strings of pearls. Blooms of daisies and roses are mixed with stripes, polka dots and heart prints for a topsy-turvy look.

Delicate 1920s style underwear slips and Edwardian lace blouses create an ethereal boudoir feel in cream and white sprinkled with sequins. Tasselled, flapper-girl and satin dresses embody the vintage styling Miss Selfridge is renowned for, in nude, pistachio, peach, apricot and dusky pink ice cream shades.

Chic: Dorothy Perkins' preppy look this season is inspired by the TV series Gossip Girl

Trousers are a key look for Miss Selfridge this time round. Skinny combats and slouchy, softly fluid belted styles are ideal, with waistcoats featuring delicate vintage crochet detailing and beading. Charcoal and dove grey washed cotton military jackets and tops are teamed with maxi dresses and pinstripe trousers.

Accessories include bags with bow details, stripes and floral prints. The footwear range comprises a pastel colour palette mixed with metallic hues, and features shells, tassels and cut-out detailing on boots, sandals and ballet pumps.