Fashion Feature: Suzanne Rae Spring 2012

image:S.Whittle for Style Wylde 

"Nostalgia for a simpler time amidst the constant search for identity in this rapidly changing world." is the description designer Suzanne Rae gave for her Spring 2012 collection which drew heavily on the clean lines and simple fabrics which characterize traditional Japanese design. "The collection reflects a modest era..." wrote the designer in her run-of-show notes. "with a zen-like quality that is at the same time optimistic for a better tomorrow."

image:S.Whittle for Style WyldeSimplicity, modesty, and zen-like are not phrases often associated with high fashion and for good reason, the industry is pretty much built on opulence and exhibitionism, and to pretend otherwise can come across as insincere, and extraordinarily pretentious.  Suzanne Rae however avoided these pitfalls for the most part, although we did question  the inclusion of a straw-coat that felt more clubkid than zen-monk (pictured below), with a collection of simply, but thoughtfully designed pieces in a soft pastel palette.

 image:S.Whittle for Style Wylde

image:S.Whittle for Style WyldeEasily wearable and utterly unfussy, the pieces seemed to fit an often ignored niche customer who wants quality, and originality but doesn't necessarily want a loud, or statement-making look. 

For more information on Suzanne Rae please visit the label's official web home.