Tsumori Chisato, Spring/Summer 2012 designs at Paris Fashion Week. Photo: PA
WHO?: Japanese queen of kook Tsumori Chisato
IN A NUTSHELL: The concept of beachwear was taken to its logical conclusion by Chisato, who created wearable tropical scenes from Spring/Summer 2012, complete with palm trees, sea, sand, mermaids and even the odd crocodile. The Hawaiian prints, halter-neck dresses and rockabilly quiffs gave proceedings a definite 1950s flavour.
BEG, BORROW OR STEAL: The kimono-style silk palm wrap would perform is duties as the ultimate beach cover-up and we loved the breezy embellished silk pencil skirts.
VERDICT: Just as a Chanel show will always feature a tweed suit, Chisato's designs (and fans) are synonymous with eye-dazzling mix and match print and colour. But this season although the quirky was still evident in the hand-drawn prints and applique (swaying raffia palm trees anyone?), her silhouettes were chic and ladylike. Whether her kook-ster fanbase will approve is yet to be seen, but we loved this new approach from Chiasto.