Resort 2015: Max Mara

When an old-school Italian label puts a bit of a hip-hop spin on their Resort collection, the outcome seems like it would be a little off kilter, non? But when Max Mara’s creative director Ian Griffiths found his inspiration in New York circa the ’80s and infused it with some updated designs, the result became both tailored and sophisticated, with a few edgy touches. Take, for example, a pair of slouchy heather grey pants: office apropos, yet made of a soft sweatpant material, or a chubby fur bolero in an unexpected dusty pink hue. Also cropping up in the fur category? A touch of kangaroo fur, embossed to replicate croc skin, which was a total standout on a green sleeveless top. Also on offer: multiple strands of chains accompanying cropped trenches and cashmere sweaters alike. Other standouts included an arrangement of jackets, especially a nubby grey coat with a navy blue lining and a drop-shoulder zip-up with a simple ruffle in forest green. Further underscoring the street style ethos? Leather Velcro sneakers that were paired with every look, along with a selection of fedoras in bold leopard print and snakeskin. As for brushing up on your lyrical prowess? That’s all on you.