Rise of the Resort Collection

Offering more fabulous fashion and sightings of our favourite supermodels, the spiking interest in cruise collections has turned the traditional fashion calendar on its head.

With interest in Resort or Cruise collections reaching new heights, we ask Elizabeth Leventhal what these trans-seasonal collections are really all about. The General Merchandising Manager of Ready-to-Wear at Moda Operandi, Inc, who has previously worked with Saks Fifth Avenue and the Gucci Group, also shares the key fashion pieces to invest in and brands to keep any eye on for the new season.

By Roula Allam

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Tell us a bit about Resort. Why do fashion brands offer this in-between collection?
Traditionally in-between seasons are used as a precursor to the main collections designers create. Now, in-between seasons like Resort are the perfect way for consumers to seamlessly transition into the upcoming season. Resort wear or “cruise” was a designer’s answer for clients who travelled around the holiday season, often to warm weather destinations.

Personally, I find Resort very glamorous, in theory and practice. I think Resort collections (and purchases) should be fun, especially if like me, you look forward to a getaway. A few of my favourites include Rosie Assoulin’s hand crochet top, Red Valentino’s patchwork utility jacket, Lisa Marie Fernandez’s super colourful flounce bikini set, Marco De Vincenzo’s satin fringes sabot, Blaze Milano’s day blazer and Sky Shamrock’s blazer.

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How important do you feel Resort is?
Resort is an important season since it lends itself to transitional dressing. Customers are craving newness, especially after the overload of the holiday season. Resort is extremely wearable, it offers pieces you can wear if you have the pleasure of warm weather in December and January, but that can easily carry over into your spring wardrobe.

Any new breakthrough designers we should look out for this spring/summer season?
Although their debut collection was in autumn/winter, Attico from Giorgia Tordini and Gilda Ambrosio is a brand to watch for in ready-to-wear and shoes. This season’s accessories included mules and satin ankle cuffs. I also love Jacquemus, his collections feel fresh, and I respect his strong ideas and unique take on Parisian minimalism (if such exists.) For denim, Re/done has become a favourite in the Moda offices.

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Tell us what you like most about the spring/summer 2017 collections?
I loved seeing a lot of new designers truly shine. Moda favourites like Brandon Maxwell and Johanna Ortiz delivered beautiful collections. Of course, it should be noted that Jonathan Saunders’s highly anticipated Diane von Furstenberg collection didn’t disappoint. I am looking forward to seeing what is next for the brand.

As a buyer what do you look out for when making your selection from each fashion house you stock?
At Moda Operandi, we pride ourselves on building a unique selection for our customers, pieces that elicit a “where did you get that” response. At the same time, we want to give our customers strong options, from head to toe. When we are buying we look for balance between the two concepts. As a company, we are investing in our non-apparel business, which includes swim, shoes and handbags.

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What are key spring/summer pieces our readers should invest in? Any good shopping advice?
Tops with statement sleeves are still a great investment. Fashion’s obsession with off the shoulder has moved down to focus on more artful sleeves. What initially started with the bell sleeve has been updated to ruched and Victorian inspired silhouettes. Also, hold onto your statement earrings, as they are continuing through this season as well. As for shopping advice, buy what you like and know you will use. There is nothing worse than a closet full of clothes with the tags still on.

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Rise of the Resort Collection

Offering more fabulous fashion and sightings of our favourite supermodels, the spiking interest in cruise collections has turned the traditional fashion calendar on its head.

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