Reminiscent, perhaps, of a slightly naughty schoolgirl with a penchant for climbing trees and a disregard for presentation, the ‘rough edges’ trend which has, this season,  sprung forth from the runways of many a highly- esteemed designer may invoke the same tone of disapproval from members of the older generation.

However, controversial through it may be, this look, (which features frayed hems, sleeved, collars and even goes so far as to include rumpled, unkempt, artfully torn pieces) is in no way going to make the public at large eye one with the same combination of disdain and pity as might be afforded to a slightly inane tramp proffering an empty coffee cup with pleas for spare change. Au contraire, this trend has been applied to many rather pretty, whimsical and even structured garments, providing a welcome addition of a slight, subtle air of mischief and rebellion. Featured on pieces which wouldn’t look out of place at a corporate event, this hinting undertone of post- coital dishevelment is a must for any woman getting the distinct impression that her wardrobe is suppressing, rather than embracing, her ever- so- slightly impish side.

Bottega Veneta

Par example, Bottega Veneta have conjured up a stunning simple, strapless ivory concoction which exudes classic grace and elegance. Look a little closer, however, and witness the creases incorporated into the design, the almost imperceptible nod to this nonchalant trend. The sheer subtlety of this garment will positively fail to offend even the most fastidious of neatness enthusiasts, whilst allowing one to express more character than a frock ironed to perfection.

Chanel

Continuing with the theme of quirky twists to classic ensembles, the physical incarnation of prim and proper (Chanel tweed twinsets) embraced the trend- hems were sheared, sleeves had shorn edges and a jacket composed of absolutely darling miniature ruffles made a divine addition to a cheeky yet charming outfit. 

YSL

The designers at Yves Saint Laurent followed suit in the pretty/ playground paradox- an angelic ruffled creation was brought down to earth by unrefined hems, whilst Jill Sander has displayed a jacket which my mother would have sent to Oxfam on the premise of its ubiquitous hanging treads.

Prada

Prada took the vibe one step further- whilst one jacket had the obligatory frayed sleeves, the two sides of the piece failed to align and the shirt which was placed underneath exposed a hint of midriff. The trend was further extended to the models tresses- schoolgirl- esque pigtails accompanied by a flyaway fringe resulted in the otherwise rather conservative looking outfit losing all possibility of being used as genuine office attire. If such overt lack of care is too big of a leap for one’s day to day wear, designers such as Calvin Klein provided wearable basics such as oversized jackets sporting definitive, but not overpowering, crumpled creases.

With such an array of attire- stretching from a full commitment to the look to a more downplayed, understated, quietly quirky feel, this is one trend in which every fashionista can find their rumpled niche.

Words by Claudia Canavan. Images courtesy of Vogue.

If you liked this article, you may also like Henri Lloyd, Brand in Focus....

Let us know what you think about this article by joining us on Twitter, direct your tweets to @TheFashionNetUK 

Recent comments...

You must be registered and logged in to post a comment.

All comments submitted on this page do not express the views of MFN, we will endeavor to remove any offensive, rude, defamatory comments.