Color on the Runway: Issa

Issa is a clothing brand designed by Daniella Issa Helayel, best known for having designed the dress that Kate Middleton wore when she announced her engagement to Prince William. The newly iconic, form-fitting sapphire dress even sold out entirely on Net-a-Porter.
The Issa fall collection is titled, "Celebration."

Red and orange are classic shades for fall collections, so I love the twist on each shade. The neon orange in the first look updates fall's common burnt orange color. The ingenious combination of the skirt, tights, and shoes in almost identical shades creates a long, streamlined effect. The patterned blouse adds an unexpected - although more expected for a fall look, ironically - touch of feminine primness needed to complete such a youthful look.
Similarly, the lipstick red coatdress on the right has an ultra-feminine and sophisticated appeal. The bright color adds interest to a simple but well-tailored, well-made garment. The hat finishes off the look, contrasting the maturity of the coatdress.

 

The look on the left has such a beautiful color palette; these shades of blue are quite uncommon in most fall collections. The pattern is interesting and sophisticated, but what I really love about this look is the styling of the entire outfit. The combination of the tights and shoes are a perfect match and complement the pops of blue in the clothing. Once again, the hat looks just right!

The second look is more typical of fall, but the rich blue background of the blouse adds a lighter, almost summery feel to the top. The modern print on the skirt keeps the outfit from looking too classic and the touch of gold is a good transition between the skirt and blouse. The maroon shoes are a wonderful addition, as well.

This dress speaks for itself. The silhouette is pretty simple, but the strategic drapes are flattering for the body. The neckline strays away from the overused deep v-neck by using an updated, more rectangular shape to maintain modernity. The rich turquoise color is surprising and would be more suitable for a spring/summer collection, but in this show, it manages to work with the other looks because it is consistent with the grown-up feminine feel of the entire collection.

Photos from style.com

Unlike Issa's last season, this collection included a variety of prints in rich color palettes that expanded on traditional, cliché fall color schemes. The collection was very well-styled and the sculptural hats that topped off many of the looks were a whimsical touch to a sophisticated, ladylike show.
No wonder Kate Middleton is a fan!

xoxo