Woman or Girl...

Am I considered a woman or a girl? This is the question I asked myself after getting up close and personal with Joseph's Autumn/Winter 11 collection. Where did this question spring from? Well, I've always associated Joseph as being a label for newly established 'women', if that makes any sense to anybody? Other than myself? I've always associated the label with classic, well tailored, 'for keeps' pieces and while the new collection has kept with tradition and offered up it's signature knits and classic workwear pieces, there is a definite wink to current trends, while not being held captive by them.

My wish list from the collection would have to be first and foremost the tweed man coat, it's the kind of coat I've always dreamt of owning. It's understated, classic, and unbelievably cool. And although I've decided that I'm more of a girl than a woman, I still think this coat is for me! Also for me, is the colour block mohair sweater, I'd love to have myself one of these too. I'd actually like a whole lot of pieces from the collection!

Joseph's creative director for the past four seasons has been a lady named Louise Trotter. I think she has slowly, but successfully, brought the brand to a place where it has kept it's tradition of classic pieces, but has introduced a subtle but very much needed fresh edge which appeals to the cool edged woman (and sometimes girl).

Joanne Hynes A/W 11/12

Joanne Hynes Autumn/Winter 11/12 collection is nothing short of genius. Entitled 'Les Guerriers', translated into English as 'The Warriors', the inspiration for the collection was taken from 16th century Irish Pirate Queen, Grainne Ni Mhaile, whose story resonated with Hynes own mission to create, 'battle on' and 'forge ahead'.

The collection is rich in texture, print and craft with reference to Irish heritage being seen through use of Waterford crystals in the oversized embellished neck and head pieces, and Aran wool in the knitwear pieces. Hynes also collaborated with Connemara basket weaver Joe Hogan to create four headpieces for the collection.

This metallic blue fish scale like skirt is so intricate and beautiful.

Hynes collaborated with Helen Steele on creating prints for the collection. Inspiration came from the female anatomy, the titles being a real giveaway - Whispering Eye, Fallopian Tube and Fallopian Nectar.

The collection was unveiled at London Fashion Week with a superb collection of beats pumping out and Bell X1's The Great Defector opening the show (check the out the show here). My prediction is this collection is going to catapult Hynes to new heights with international recognition just around the corner. An offering from the Irish fashion community, she can stand proud behind!

You can find a list of Joanne Hynes stockists and also shop online at http://joannehynes.com & http://style-tonic.com

Labels: Pics: Brian O'Sullivan