Sara Berman AW 07: Mainline

According to Sara and Amiee Berman, the fashion recipe for Autumn/Winter 2007 goes thus: take one part Glam Rock and two parts New Romantic, mix well and then add a good dash of Beau Brummell Dandy frills. If it sounds over the top, that’s because it is.

The inspiration might come from the male species, but curvy shapes make this collection all woman. Starchy skirts that bulge at the hips add some Jessica Rabbit proportions, whilst blouses are cut low and daring into the bust. The dresses, one cool and slinky, another wasp waisted and reeking of classic Yves Saint Laurent, have pure siren status. Legs are permanently on show and even the knitwear cinches in all the right places. Complete the look with a don’t-give-a-damn gaze, some raunchy hips when you walk and a slick of fuchsia on your lips.

Blending into the background is certainly not on the agenda: if David Bowie can make Lurex and hot pink work, then so can you. And don’t think these passionate pairing are only for after-dark, The designers at Sara Berman have blurred the boundaries between day and night, so be prepared to wear body hugging velvet on the bus and thick, textured tweed at twilight. It might sound like a right Royal affair, but this girl does not confirm to age-old standards: tweed is teased into the tiniest possible puffballs, silks are printed with cheetah spots wild enough for the Serengeti and the pink coats and cardigans are so hot they’re almost bubbling.

But don’t forget about black. Dark, mysterious and dangerous, black is back. Whether is be a jet button on a sugary dress or a wide bow at the waist, black is the link that holds this smouldering story together. In heavy sateen, smooth, luxurious cashmere and Swiss cotton shirting, Sara Berman will make black your best friend.

If the curves and colour don’t aren’t dramatic enough, then slip on the low-cut black leather gloves and watch the boys weep.