HERMÈS took a trip to the races for SS19. Specifically – Hippodrome de Longchamp, situated on the outskirts of Paris. Such an equestrian setting was fitting for Nadège Vanhee-Cybulski, the house’s creative director, who has coined a niche female frontier through her designs. Season after season, her collections communicate an elegance and mature sense of womanhood that is distinctly definable as Hermès from first sight. The reason for such? A predominantly neutral colour palette (save for its acclaimed orange) and a leather takeover, maintaining a stylish seduction that speaks well to contemporary women.
That notion rang through garments for SS19, foreground by a blending of saddler and sailor attire. Vanhee-Cybulski was clearly feeling sporty for the season ahead, but she didn’t allow that idea to usurp completely. Models marched in clothes that were catered to modern movement, whilst still screaming minimalism. Sartorially speaking, that idea rang through classic leather skirts and dresses with contemporary upgrades: from stark rope detailing to cool add-ons of braces.
That overriding material surfaced across accessories, too. The house debuted a fresh new bucket bag – the Musardine – which was finished fine leather piping. Sandals paved the way for travel, structured to both strappy and flat, as well as booted and open-toe. So really, these girls were prepped for any form of adventure, and they were embarking on such with simple style. As for the colour palette, amid Hermès’s acclaimed earthy, neutrals, pops of brighter hues broke through. As anticipated: orange, which clad billowing jackets which could safely be worn against any weather report.
In contrast to Hedi Slimane’s debut collection for Celine which took a re-branded turn away from minimalism, Hermès is sticking to what it knows best: contemporary simplicity. With regards to design approach, Nadège Vanhee-Cybulski can be categorised quite closely to Phoebe Philo, so it’s looking likely that this SS19 will satisfy plenty more than the brand’s current consumer. Minimal lovers, don’t fret. Hermès has got you covered with garments sure to communicate your eternal need for classic and chic.
by Faye Fearon