MANILA, Philippines -The chic and glamorous Italian brand Liu Jo flounces with floral patterns, relives the stylish ’60s, then melds everything with neo-ethnic ornamentation, letting a new-fangled femininity surface with its spring-summer 2013 collection.
Liu Jo revisits the age when polka dots, floral prints and all swinging ’60s elements were hip and happening, then gives them a contemporary tweak. For instance, carved cuts enhance waistlines; so do colorful little belts. Micro-cardigans, twin sets and box-line jackets sit warmly and well with fascinating flare skirts and dresses.
A rich knitwear line sashays in and is characterized by the flamboyant ’60s apparent in the vivacious viscose spots deepened with retro necklaces as well as in the use of cotton with Cornely processing or the beautiful crochet effects, lurex-degrading inserts for slip-ons and shrugs.
Lines are supple and fluid. Slight asymmetries abound in necks and drapes for dresses, small fixed folds, plissé and gatherings anchored by back-tackings or crystal studs to establish a fresh femininity.
Maxi dresses and palazzo pants (worn with micro-pullovers or tops for daily outfits) are key. Embroidered dresses are worn with matching stoles that are either knitted or embellished with sequins for star-studded soirées.
Liu Jo Jeans move forward with the classic French Riviera-style soul and the contemporary and joyful image of the Pop Art scene. The image of Saint-Tropez in the ’60s is enhanced by the hyper-feminine soul and transformed into a chic, laidback look. Elegant chains and new glam details such as colorful bandanas in belt loops applied to black washed canvas make denims stand out all the more. Stretch gabardine returns, bringing in the vibrant colors of summer.
T-shirts have Pop Art and graphic prints with pitchers, writings and necklaces in cotton and stretch viscose, made more precious by rhinestone or small studs with standard, skinny, slim leg, boot-cut, beat and high-waist jeans.
Lace plays an essential role this season, a representation of what is truly feminine, romantic and vintage chic. Materials like silk satin and crepe de chine, when combined with silk bourette, viscose Milan stitches and cotton poplin plus contrasting colors, give off seducing see-through and sophisticated effects.
Liu Jo’s Accessories Line, meanwhile, features the fine points of everything hyper-feminine that includes bags, small leather goods, belts, scarves, shawls and trinkets.
In the Philippines, Liu Jo has branches located at Glorietta 2, Ayala Center, Makati City (625-3712); and Ayala Center Cebu (032-2315518) while Liu Jo Accessories is at Unit 213 The Podium, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Commercial Center, Mandaluyong City (654-3580).