This season, Twenty8Twelve designer Elsa Elphick put a 1940s spin on her brand s eclectic aesthetic. The WWII theme wasn t expounded with overwhelming force; rather, Elphick referenced the era s key silhouettes through a few suggestive gestures, such as garment paneling that mimicked the nipped waists of those old film noir vixens suits and dresses, and tied belts that owed a little something to Rosie the Riveter s workwear. There was also a touch of military detailing, and zoot suit–inspired oversize blazers, and the occasional and inevitable raised shoulder. The clothes didn t come off vintage-y; Elphick worked hard to update. And she didn t seem to worry much about consistency—there was nothing particularly forties-esque about the collection s skinny denim or leather leggings, or a color-blocked motorcycle jacket, or the slouchy blue sweater in a waffle knit. At any rate, the mix of looks here was nicely judged, and there were plenty of pieces that will appeal to the youthful Twenty8Twelve customer.
