Dune London Autumn / Winter 2016 : Life Retreat

Last week, the Life Retreat team attended the Dune London A/W16 Launch, at Cape Town’s very own underground Restaurant come Art Gallery – Spasie. We were spoilt to a preview of the gorgeous new Men & Womens Range of Shoes, Accessories, and Handbags. But thats not all…

Dune London represents a modern, luxurious lifestyle, and their launch was entirely that. We had a glass of wine on arrival, and got treated to delectable canapés, tea tastings and an exclusive presentation from Dune’s very own international brand manager, Danni Slater.

This season draws focus on reinvention. Influences are taken from the present-day modern icon, whilst textures and colours are revitalised, developing through the season from fresh and neutral to rich and luxurious.

Shape and texture is still heavily influenced by the Seventies era, whilst deep midnight tones make for a dramatic day to evening collection.

A contemporary collection is introduced through clean, soft lines and minimal profiles. An understated palette of grey, foundation and winter blush bring a sense of newness. Soft leathers streamline previous loafer and ankle boot profiles, with thick cross-toe straps being a key styling element. Hardware features are kept simple and versatile; buckles and trims add interest and reflect a contemporary movement. Modern lines and muted tones make for a clean transition into autumn.

An uptown feel is referenced through this collection, with silhouettes and colour palettes reflecting the seventies era. Statement platform soles are seen on boot and sandal profiles, whilst slouched, calf height boots and block-heel, knee-high boots are structured and finished in luxe suede. A rich, autumn palette provides endless versatility; warm honey, chocolate brown and fox red elevate classic silhouettes. Playful styling elements of fringing and rub of leather elevate profiles to reflect the western trend.

Drama is created through deep, luxurious tones; midnight blue, dusted metallic and smoky grey evoke subtle glamour. Intricate embroidery is enhanced with detailed stitching; weaving metallic threads, gem stones and beads together on high shine satin.

Statement embellishments feature on block heels, and straps for added opulence.

Mesh is reinvented this season adding sheerness to delicate fabrications, while lace and brocade play into the Victoriana trend. In contrast, glossy patent leather and moc croc adds a boldness to day to night dressing.

Availability

Dune London is available at Sandton City, Canal Walk, Centurion Mall, Rosebank Mall, Baywest Mall and Highveld Mall as well as selected Edgars stores.

Dune London Men’s Footwear

This season draws focus to the contemporary. An eclectic mix of styles combine to create a classic collection elevated by modern details such as texture combinations, hi-shine and colour contrasts.

Boot styles have an outdoor, rugged feel for this season, with herringbone fabric panels combined with worn-look leathers and chunky cleated soles, which add texture and weight to casual boots.

The Alpine Explorer trend is highlighted through rich, dark tones, quilted collars and fabric combinations. Influences are taken from the AW15 catwalks, inspiring new detailing such as ski hooks which nod to the trend.

The classic Chelsea boot is re-worked with bold details, a defined round toe last, colour pop gusset, and cleated sole combine to create attitude.

Glossy, hi-shine leather finishes on formal styles add a dressier feel to sharp, almond toe brogue profiles. Deep tones of midnight blue, bordeaux and chocolate brown emphasise the luxurious feel. The multi-colour panels are refined, adding a high fashion interest.

The English Gentleman trend elevates Dune Men’s everyday formal range; subtle changes on quintessential Oxford brogues are developed with new pony skin textures. The monk strap is a key style for the season, the profile takes on a formal silhouette, with vintage feel materials to give a more relaxed, artisan look.

Availability

Dune London flagship stores are available at Sandton City, Canal Walk, Centurion Mall, Rosebank Mall, Baywest Mall and Highveld Mall as well as selected Edgars stores.