fashion

Esprit's style synthesis is inspired

by global travelling this spring.

startwo@thestar.com.my

INSPIRED by global travel, the 2010 Spring/Summer women's Esprit collection is both versatile and contemporary, ranging from architecturally defined shapes to luxurious summer party looks.

Linear soft designs are perfect for the office, yet sensuous at the same time. Experiments with feminine and masculine elements redefine business wear to challenge the austerity of the classic two-piece. Elegant single-breasted blazers, trench coats, feminine blouses and safari-themed jackets give the line a cool sense of confidence for breezing through the summer heat. Tailored dresses trace the feminine silhouette in airy crepes, georgettes and chiffons.

Free and easy: Esprit Casual line for Spring 2010.

The Esprit Casual line reveals comfort that is translated to an urban athletic context. Casual cuts or lightweight cottons and linens mean cool relaxation in midsummer temperatures.

Fresh bohemian styles with South American touches such as ikat designs, folkloric knits and decorations create exciting combinations when paired with destroyed denim. Leggings, oversized sweats and blouses, parkas or extra-long blazers make a spring trend statement to emphasise the slim silhouette while cropped pants, chinos and boyfriend jeans are absolute must-haves for this season.

edc by Esprit presents a cool colour clash that features basic elements such as ethnic styles, Wild West accents, beach culture and bohemian touches. Oversized soft jersey T-shirts, bandeaus and leggings take centre stage while skirts and dresses get a summer makeover with new print and material combinations. Crochet, lace, embroidery and sewed on pearls lend elegance to the line, with denim taking the lead role.

Julia Restoin-Roitfeld models for Esprit Women Casual

For Esprit Bodywear, look to straightforward designs that are effortless and femininely romantic. There are fresh takes on patterns for Vichy checks, mille-fleurs and polka-dots. Tonal embroidery adds a matching touch to silky microfibre with soft prints.

Beachwear is seen in crocheted applique and batik prints, with unmistakable hippie accents. Paisleys, ethnic designs and flowered embroideries complete the mood.

For the guys, the Urban Road Trip starts off with hoodies and athletic looks straight from the neighbourhood basketball court. Key styles include authentic washed denim: heritage denim in different washings and with distressed details matched with collared shirts and Ts featuring American retro designs.

Esprit Men Casual presents a season filled with adventure and cool outfits. "Relax in Style" stands for looks that spell casual field jackets, innovative blouson shapes and denim jackets. Used washings give round-the-clock basics such as Bermuda shorts and T-shirts an authentic, worn look. Denims are relaxed in 80s-style washings, middle blue or new beige and ecru naturals. Paper-touch cottons emphasise the line's straightforward statement concerning style and material.

The Men Bodywear range ventures onto the streets of San Francisco with the key visual featured on shorts, hipsters, midis and mini slips as an emblem or print. Overlocked seams, stitches and badges highlight the statement on classic checks, and striped woven features. Microfibre, cotton and Meryl unicolours are essential basics.

There's also kidswear with a marine theme for the boys (read: nautical motifs and striped T-shirts) and impressions of the 80s for Esprit Mini and edc youth Girls, supported by neon tones and washed colourful denim.