Country Road has launched its striking AW15 collection, which perfectly balances modern sportswear, boyish silhouettes and clean lines. Designs are bought to life in a palette of navy, fresh white and pale blue, with beautiful plum ascents.
The line between masculinity and femininity are blurred. Faux leather culottes are perfectly paired with a sleek man-style shirt, and elegant ankle strap mules to give an androgynous edge. Lush knitwear are perfect for layering as the weather gets cooler, and are a must-have for the modern traveler.
Fabrics are rich and tactile, sitting softly against the skin. Knits are matched with bonded jersey for clean silhouettes in effortless monochrome. On-trend capes, sleeveless coats and funnel neck knits will have you wishing winter was here.
The man style trend is carried onto accessories with brogues, slippers and derby laceups offering great everyday versatility and a way to toughen up a feminine dress. Flashes of animal print and on-trend marble print add an interesting dimension to the collection.
The second season of Country Road Active focuses on fluidity and movement, with graphic statements, complementary colour blocking and smooth, seamless fits. Nude palettes delicately contrast dark winter tones with updated anoraks, leggings and running shorts.
To celebrate the new collection, Country Road have engaged taste makers to style their favourite pieces. Former Vogue stylist Ilona Hamer has worked with some of the biggest names in fashion, making her the perfect fit for the campaign. She gave Country Road the low down on her style and where she looks for inspiration.
If you had to critique your own look, what would you say?
My style changes a lot, but typically my daily uniform tends to revolve around black jeans, a silk shirt and a well-cut narrow blazer or coat that I wear with ankle boots. I’m always inspired by people who are comfortable in themselves; women who are confident and cool and don’t try too hard. When it comes to true style, I think an easy-going attitude counts for a lot.
What is your Sunday routine?
I take coffee and croissants from my favourite coffee stop on 10th Street, Third Rail, then walk to Tompkins Square to watch the dogs play in the park. The afternoon is usually spent wandering West Village followed by a film in the evenings.
And your signature styling tip?
“A casual roll of the sleeve and that extra undone button always makes a difference.”
Signature fragrance: I have created a mix of my two favourites – Sycamore by Chanel Les Exclusifs and L’ombre dans L’eau by Diptyque. I wear them both at once and it seems to work!
Favourite album: I have been listening to a lot of Muddy Waters and Bo Diddley. Also The Allah-las, The Night Beats The Growlers, I don’t think I can pick an all time favourite!
Latest read: Galveston by Nic Pizzolatto
Her favourite flowers: Tulips and Peonies
What she never leaves home without?
I have a little rhyme someone once taught me to repeat as you walk out the door so you never forget anything you need – “Wallet, keys and my phone, everything that I own”. I sometimes add a lipstick or lip balm and gum but my handbag is normally pretty empty!
Favourite restaurant: There is a little fish restaurant in Cadaques in the north of Spain right near Dali’s house that has been owned by the same family for generations. I cannot for the life of me remember its name, but I dream of going back often.
Cocktail of choice: Negroni! Or tequila on the rocks with a squeeze of lime.
Manicure colour: Malaga Wine and Samoan Sand (one coat!) by OPI
Creatively, one theme you keep returning to is … Instagram! It is hands down the best research tool available. For casting, inspiration, trains of thought… its just great to be able to have it all at your fingertips.
Favourite artist: John Chamberlain because I love the delicacy and the force, the intricate planned mess and texture. Its like the past and the future all mushed together. Like a Transformer Robot in wrecking yard.
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