Stella McCartney Spring 2017

In an industry that is notoriously snobbish and uptight, Stella McCartney oft provides the cheerful and carefree moments that remind us all that fashion should be fun. This season was no exception, with a choreographed dance-off between her cast of supermodels: howling, shouting, and shaking in clothes that were clearly made for the dance floor.

Function and the depth and breadth of femininity have always been cornerstones of McCartney’s brand, as have her vegetarianism and eradication of all fur and leather designs in both the closets of her own personal wardrobe and those of her company. She plainly put her interests on display with jumpsuits, t-shirts, and frocks with emblazoned graphics including, “No Leather”, “No Fur”, and “Thanks Girls”. The designs were completely in your face, captivating, and a practical way to present your activism.

But that wasn’t all the brand served up, naturally. The collection opened with whittled, corseted waists juxtaposed against capacious paper bag-waist trousers: a heck of a look if ever there was one.

That gave way to sumptuous and effortless knits that felt completely laid-back and self-possessed simultaneously. As happens at least a few times a season with McCartney’s designs, the proportions weren’t always flattering, but the wearer will certainly feel amazing and comfortable.

And if you’re looking for ways to wear an extra long scarf (or blanket in the brand’s case), don’t worry about wrapping it around your neck: you can just casually sport it on your shoulder like the runway instructed.

Accessories are big business for McCartney, but many of the accoutrements on display admittedly missed the mark. Snap-accented kitten heels were dowdy at best and the shape of the retro-inspired cat eye shades may not work for most face shapes. But the wooden jewelry did play with great design, as did the sumptuous leather bags, and playful stone earrings.

Stars like Heidi Klum and Beyoncé have gravitated towards the brand for more casual attire, thus we’ll have our eyes peeled for the exact designs they choose from this collection. The denim looks are sure to be a big hit, along with the sporty chic pieces that can easily be elevated with pumps and statement-making baubles.