Weekend Wardrobes: Artful Draping

1 min read

Redefine proportion with the season’s masterfully constructed pieces that feminise the form and make for unconventional party attire. We aren’t talking about your traditional Madam Vionett styles or even the famed Grecian techniques, but rather a new play on the technique all together. Here’s why you should be wearing them and how.

Many associate the word draping with the gathered pleats on Greek statues or the jersey dress we’ve seen on countless runways too many times. But, while this is technically a form of draping the technique itself refers to a form of laying cloth that has since, early 2000s, seen a constant form of change.  In 2016, we’ve welcomed these new shapes with open arms for their ability to resculpt the form and elongate the physique while highlighting our best attributes. For a day spent moving between poolside brunches and new restaurant openings try a breathable shape that has lesser seams. These appear with large sleeves attached to the body of the garment and in a spectrum of shades such as crème beige, stonewash grey and opal. Whichever colour tone you choose, this ensemble can take you from day to night with the right accessories.

Accessorising your draped dress or top can be a bit of challenge. Take a step back and analyse your garment, is there more fabric on the top or at the bottom? Opt for accessories furthest away from the point of draping i.e if the drapes create a fold at your neck try large Bulgari cuffs and Chopard rings to emphasise other points on your body. Similarly accessories should be kept simple, tanned stilettos and bags crafted in sheer tech fabrications add a contemporary charm.

Tired of running home from that high-tea that took too long and can’t stand the thought of being zipped and corseted? Here’s where designers of the now enter your wardrobe and bless your physique with gossamer dresses that are both red-carpet ready and as light as a feather. Slip into one of these dreamy creations that exude effortless grace and enviable nonchalance. Depending on the length of your draped dress opt for smaller clutches and textured booties.