Spring/Summer 2012 Womenswear Collections
Inspired by the clean cut lines from the 1990s, the new Reiss SS12 season clothing and accessories takes reference from previous Calvin Klein campaigns, and the iconic sex appeal and cut of Jean Paul Gaultier.
Reiss have adjusted the fabrics, proportions and layering to give the collection a thoroughly modern feel, and it’s certainly fresh and alive. They’ve use techniques such as layering separate items in new lengths, which creates a characteristic softness and heralds a ‘new way of dressing,’ one which is both emminently feminine – and emminently wearable.
Printed designs are added to enhance this properties further, combining sheer fabrics overlaid onto bold rainbow coloured fabrics, or piecing together print and sheer panels of fabric.
The knitwear collection includes micro textures and chunky stitches, in soft neutrals and summery pastel colours.
The Trends
Coquette Chic
Coquette Chic is all about structured tailoring and interesting textures, strong silhouettes in heavy geo lace which reinvent occasion dressing.
Poolside
The Poolside collection has retro 1940s influencies, with Ester Williams as the poster girl. Items for next year’s summer holiday include cropped tops, print shorts, lots of sheer fabrics and semi-sheer here and there to be a bit naughty – but still nice 
Glam Grunge
For a glamorous, grungy look, look to beautifully soft leather, biker style jackets worn over fluid print maxi dresses. Harking back to the early seventies, this look is inspired by The Face’s early nineties shots of Kate Moss by Corinne Day.
Reiss Donna Dress SS12
The Details
Prints
Lots of prints are in evidence, taking inspiration from hand drawn florals, birds and insect wings which are distorted and digitally print on semi opaque backgrounds.
Other prints include water inspired abstract designs with stripes, unusual colouring and snake print texturing. Also, there’s a tropical vibe with palm prints and botanicals clashing together for a playful juxtaposition.
The Palette
The palette is neutral combined with soft, seasonal pastels such as pale mint green and apricot. Depth is added to the designs with hints of auburn, with dashes of turquoise and bright yellow adding freshness to print and burnout patterns. Whites are layered together with sheer or structured fabrics, and mixed together with creamy shades and metallics for a fresh, contemporary approach.
Reiss Callas Lace Jacket
Must Have Items
Callas – a lace statement jacket
Stilla - a sheer print and pleat dress in new midi length
Percy - a cocoon cropped pant in luxury fluid fabric
Pru - a double layer silk day dress
When Can I Buy It?
This collection will go live February 2012.
