The  spirit of summer is kept alive in Rebecca Thompson’s latest autumn/winter 2010 collection. With loose fitting silhouettes, ethnic embroideries and floral patterns, the label is akin to Easton Pearson and epitomises that boho vibe.

Her colour palette is vibrant, dominated by warm orange and fresh white, and contrasted with plenty of black to tailor the range to the season. As highlights, a cobalt blue maxi dress flashes a touch of Halston-like glamour into the collection, and a primary red is woven through the embroideries.

Embellished textiles are key to Thompson’s style and define the range. There are geometric patterns reminiscent of Native Amercian designs, and floral, needlepoint-like embroideries, which add a 1970s, hippy feel to the collection. Floral prints also appear in black, white and orange with further floral embroideries added on top. Beading on top of the needlework adds depth whilst a skirt and shrug trimmed with sequins offer some glitz for evening.

Details are so significant. Sheer organza overlays simple shift dresses; its stiff quality forming ballerina-like skirts, and girly bows run around the hems.

Dresses are the collection’s foremost feature and their look is feminine but modest. Hems generally fall to the knee although the odd maxi dress offers a variation in length. Their shapes fluctuate between tunic styles and dresses with added volume in the skirts, reminiscent of a 1950s silhouette. Waists are defined with softly tied, fabric belts.

There is something limited in way of outerwear however, which can be a highlight of any autumn/winter collection, especially for Melbourne. Thompson offers perhaps four jacket designs; all of which are softly tailored and are more about form over function. So overall, the pretty collection is one to pack in your suitcase for a trip to Queensland in search of some winter sun.

 

Pretty prose by Gail Appleby

Images courtesy label