Manner Issue 8 | Page 29

FASHION CALI girls Liana Shaw talks us through the Cali trend, from boho dresses to distressed denim C alifornia; One of the most iconic places in the world, the home of Hollywood and surf culture, incredible coasts and Beverly Hills. More often than not, when we think of California, we think of the beaches, the sand, the sea; the glorious sunshine filled days driving down the west coast with the surfboard in the back and the Pacific to the left. Fashion is also taking its inspiration from this vision for a key trend this season. Perfect for summer, Cali style brings to life the freshness and freestyle ethos that we associate with California dreaming. The boho chicness we love from the days of hippie revolution is a major piece of this trend. With texture playing a part, natural fabrics are best for achieving this look. Distressed linen, light, flowy cotton and slouchy knitwear all work brilliantly. Tailoring, structure and over worked fabric makes way for gentle crochet, wider weaves and cheesecloth style fabrics instead. Crinkles and creases? How low maintenance. However, it’s not just the sort of fabric that can lend its hand to the trend. Colour plays a big part too. There’s quite a broad spectrum; a mix of earthy tones in blues, greens and ochres, contrasted with bright and bold pinks, yellows and reds. The softer colours add a more relaxed vibe to an item of clothing; cream as opposed to the sharpness of white, a gentle greyish blue instead of a strong royal blue. That’s not to say there aren’t brighter colours involved, but the look is more laid back than stand out and colour can help make that work.  29