Vanessa Bruno: denim for days
OK, it’s official: Vanessa Bruno’s latest collection has enthralled us. Best known for its Cabas Tote bags, the brand has come a long way in a relatively short time, establishing itself as a global, high-end boutique in less than 30 years. Compared to the multi-generational progress of some of Paris’ fashion grandees, that’s a pretty meteoric rise.
Bruno herself has been at the heart of the business since its launch in 1996. She’s worked closely with celebrity clients, such as Charlotte Gainsbourg and Lou Doillon – the latter of whom is also the label’s muse. Today, Grazia estimates that one of her iconic Cabas bags is sold every thirty seconds around the world.
Looking at their latest pieces, it’s clear that the brand’s style has evolved over the years to reflect a greater maturity and sophistication that perhaps corresponds to the forward-thinking style of its founder. Yes, they’re fresh, daring and often combine classic Gallic charme with an Asian-inspired minimalism aesthetic (the Ania cardigan is a great example). But they’re also multi-purpose, androgynous (almost to the point of being gender-neutral) and comfortable in any setting.
The latest Vanessa Bruno denim pieces are, perhaps, the best illustration of that. Chic and cosy, they project an air of progressive style that looks suitable in any situation, from conservative to rebellious. We’ve picked out a few of our favourites to add to our Most Wanted list for Spring:
The Arova Dress
The simple cut of this A-line dress belies its more subtle stand-out features. Heavy stitching on the hem and pockets matches a Henley neckline for an unapologetically bold feel. The large sash style belt can be tied sedately at the front or back, or hitched over the hip.
The Nano Bootcut Jeans
There are jeans and then there are bootcut jeans. Nothing makes a statement like walking into a room wearing a pair of these bohemian chic denim wonders. The Nano jeans’ flare cut gives them a retro feel, while their patch pockets at the front marry practicality with an angular, contemporary edge.
Vanessa Bruno: The Samia Shirt
There’s nothing quite like a denim shirt for projecting cool creativity. Effortlessly arty, the Samia shirt features a shirt tail hem that’s literally designed for ‘hanging out’. We love the soft cotton feel with a bit of stretch for comfort both at home and on the move.
Vanessa Bruno: The Atila Jacket
A real stand-out piece, the Atila jacket is an exclusively new design for Spring/Summer 2023. Its oversized design, larger than average drawstring hood and kangaroo pocket at the front makes it a game-changing layering piece. With that seemingly in mind, the Atila’s side snap tab allows for ease of access to lower layers – as well as for fostering that debonaire, hand-in-pockets look.
All in all, there’s a lot going for Vanessa Bruno right now. While their gorgeous totes (which come in both leather and canvas) have rightly enjoyed the spotlight for many years, Spring/Summer 2023 is the season where its signature denim looks could really come to the fore. Here at FAULT, we can’t wait to see it!