Affinity for the 1960s has been growing in popularity since Feud: Capote vs. The Swans started airing, but for all the brands only recently taking interest in that era, Enrico Chiarparin wants you to know that St. John did it first. Founded in 1962, the brand has the mod look in its DNA. That said, Chiarparin also wants to look ahead and bring in futuristic references to his classic pieces. With the help of stylist and creative consultant Karla Welch, the two put their powers together for a modern-day version of high society classics.
“I wanted to give that glamorous California look that is just cool— think Tom Ford and Julianne Moore,” Chiarparin said. “The idea with Karla was when we were styling to bring the pleasure of dressing. We’ve been doing a lot of polished and slick looks, but this time we explored layering pieces and accessories.” One of the key pieces is the Nuda top, made from a mix of nylon and jersey with a shiny, skin-tight fit that Chiarparin and Welch suggest you style over St. John’s “basketball jersey-like” gown.
As for accessories, Chiarparin brought back some jewelry from the archive including pavé earrings, zebra print bangles, and opulent crystal belts. For those who don’t want to invest in baubles, they made it easy by adorning select evening blouses and gowns with built-in embellished details at the neckline with a trompe l’oeil effect.