Clear thinking

I can see clearly now the rain has gone...

Well the rain may still be lingering in the true British summer fashion, but my penchant for perspex and see-through accessories is sticking. 

Take, for instance, the crystal-heeled Chanel boots from AW12/13, or the Marc by Marc Jacobs PVC cross-body bag. At first glance, you see nothing untoward or particularly striking. But then, after a double take or two, you can see just how clever the craftsmanship has led the eye to see how the finer details have been finished perfectly- whether it's the stitching, hardware or the sculpting of a heel.

Although a perspex heel has never been seen as particularly chic or possessing any kind of positive connotations (think Red Light District), Chanel managed to prove them wrong and  re-imagine the potential of see-through materials. Totally modern, totally cool. 

Charlotte Olympia's perspex clutch sold out in mere minutes at one store in Dallas, and the Hermes Birkin has been toted by the elite few in the fashion world. If that doesn't whet your taste buds, I don't know what will. 

All that can be said is that now, as designers and fashion houses are beginning to experiment with innovative and sustainable materials, it's time to rethink the possibilities of your sartorial recipe. It's not that cashmere doesn't still hold true as a staple piece... you just have to pair it with some faux leather, rubber, and maybe even some PVC.

So let's forget how quickly the rain came along and banished the heat wave, and try to see clearly now even though it's pouring. 

Photo credits: Michele Silvestro; La mode oui c'est moi