DIANE VON FURSTENBERG | SPRING / SUMMER 2012

Diane Von Furstenberg’s Spring / Summer 2012 collection, titled ‘Beginnings,’ showcased a variety of prints and patterns, notably the graphic floral print, which has been highlighted as one of next season’s key trends.

Named last week by Forbes as being one of New York Fashion Week’s most influential names. With over 41-years experience, Von Furstenberg is one of the veteran designers who still manages to draw a huge crowd.

Von Furstenberg, true to form, showed bold graphics in vivid primary colours, prints in muted shades and layering as part of her spring summer 2012 line. Bold floral graphics were seen on flowing asymmetric dresses, maxi dresses and silk button down shirts teamed with Bermuda shorts.

Presenting fabulous feminine designs contrasted with bold masculine tailoring, another key look for next season, von Furstenberg showed another iconic collection. Silhouettes were slim and feminine with flowing fabrics, layers of chiffon, low necklines, clinching belts, von Furstenberg as ever, flattering figures with her use of different fabrics.

Watched from the front row by the fashion elite, Valentino, Oscar de la Renta, Rachel Zoe and Anna Wintour were all present for the ‘Beginnings’ catwalk show.

The ‘Beginnings’ collection is a celebration of Africa, said the designer -’not colonial Africa or safari Africa, but Africa at the core,’ von Fursenberg said. Shown on September 11, the show had significance to many who attended. “The world is changing for so many reasons, all I can do is good work, give good quality, hopeful colours,’ von Furstenberg said.

- Lindsay Putland