Clare Waight Keller’s second collection for Chloé blends the streets of London with posh Parisian sensibilities. The London street side, however, came off a little heavily – which may lose some fans that adore Chloe’s airy girliness. That being said, it also may attract some new clients that prefer a tougher edge. The color palette was all peaches, mustards, nudes, and sky blues, which kept the tone light and carefree. Outerwear here was incredibly strong, comprised of an array of sweet, funnel collar toppers, long jackets in a pleasing plaid pattern, and quilted car coats. Marled knit sweaters in black and white and rainbow hues also made a big impact. It was the bottom half of the collection – the trousers, pants, and skirts – that lost focus on the Chloé message. They were heavy and at times, ungainly. Skirts in pouchy leather came out with a strange elastic hemline. The drop-crotch trousers skewed strange. However, eveningwear rescued the message with confident knotted gowns in flowing silk, and charming doily lace frocks decorated in flower appliqués. Chloé may have a new direction under Keller, and if she works out a few design kinks, this brand could be entering exciting and interesting new territory.

written by GRACE GORDON|photos: courtesy of GoRunway