In a fashion week full of amazing shows, the Alice and Oliva Spring 2013 Collection stood out. Not only was the mid-century setting and 1950′s-inspired ready-to-wear collection visually pleasing, it was also a celebrity-filled affair, with Lauren Conrad, Kelly Bensimon, Elizabeth Moss and Ari Graynor milling around. With smartly dressed waiters serving desserts, cocktails, and mini ice cream bars provided by Magnum (an event sponsor), the sophistication of the party matched the clothing on display.

Designer Stacey Bendet stayed true to the 1950′s colour palette of primary colours like lemon yellow, apple green, vibrant blues, and cherry reds, while adding in the romantic soft colours like peach, sky blue, canary yellow, and coral. While many designers this year are using black and white liberally in their collections, Bendet used them primarily as a back drop. A plethora of patterns, textures and fabrics were incorporated into this collection, with python print heels, houndstooth handbags, baby blue tweed, coral leather jackets, sunny yellow beaded lace, black and white chevron peplum, and polka dot trousers standing out as must-have pieces.

-written by Alana Denham