Au naturel: Go back to basics, with fashion inspired by nature

Inspired by our own initiative, The Vogue Square, which aims to give back to the planet with just one square of lovingly tendered earth at a time, this is fashion with a green-fingered edge. Here, clothes take their cues from the elements, with natural fibres in earthy hues and classic, simple clothes perfect for exploring nature in. But there is also a magical, other-worldly dimension to these pieces, which will transport you to the mysticism of secluded lakes and ancient forests.

A sense of new-Victoriana clings to this aesthetic; like the fairy-tale opulence of Louis Vuitton’s spring/summer 2022 show, which featured transparent lace and appliquéd tulle on full skirts. Here, linen and lace are in communion white; with 19th century inspired high-necked blouses and dresses that waft in the breeze as you stroll through the fields. Take Sehnsucht Atelier’s body skirt with ruffled collar and sleeves, which conjures images of the frontierswoman or country maiden; living at one with the natural world.

These old-world associations are given a modern twist in diaphanous fabrics. Translucent materials were a mainstay of the spring/summer 2022 shows, from Christopher Kane to Givenchy, which frequently paired gauzy cloth with a sense of solid utility. See how the delicate sensuality of Paul Klages mint-green lace dress is contrasted beautifully with a pair of robust Drome leather gloves.

The dress also has the propriety of French lace with the transparent allure of club kid cool. Dior’s technical raffia fishnet jacket achieves a similar effect; bearing the hallmarks of prim Victoriana, with the punchy gossamer of a raver. Then there is the fine knitted co-ord from Transe Paris in an evocative emerald green which delicately threads its way across your body like the knotted fauna of the forest floor.

Related: Watch our video and learn how to grow your own Vogue Square

For there is an earthy sexuality to this aesthetic which exudes a goddess-like connection to the natural world. A prime example is the Grecian effortlessness of Rochas’ white muslin dress, forged with gentle pleats and an enchanting sense of movement. This otherworldliness is also seen in both the regal dimensions of Atlein’s draped kimono-sleeved dress and the paired-back suggestiveness of Fendi’s two-tone muslin dress. Then there is the playful sexiness of Anna Heim’s flower-embellished knitted top, which will make you feel as though you have stumbled into the land of the faeries in A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Flora and fauna dances across these pieces, the way they featured heavily on the SS22 catwalks. The frothy, petal-adorned frills at Zimmerman were a feast for the eyes, blooms were big and bold at Huishan Zhang and Rodarte, and there were simple, homestead posies at Emilia Wickstead and Erdem.

Atlein’s hand-bleached ruched trousers are a beautiful example of the trend, with almost pixelated camo green print faded behind bold orange petals and Dior’s ladylike full skirts come dotted with black silhouetted florals.

Going back to nature means an emphasis on grounded hues and natural fabrics. Invest in cotton separates like Dior’s trench skirts and wear wool in cream and soft-brown shades like Sportsmax’s asymmetric mohair top with draped neckline detail or Dior’s open knitted sweater and taupe cashmere net top. Basic ingredients are what this look requires so don’t shy away from the deceptive simplicity of Highlight Studios rope crochet dress, behind which you can always slip a jolt of colour like this sustainable silk Stella McCartney skirt.

There is a distinct uncomplicatedness to going au naturel. Keep your colours muted or neutral and your dresses lace, muslin or linen. Though this look relies on pairing back, this is not a time to scrimp on luxurious design or playful proportions. These may be unpretentious pieces for communing with the earth, but you want to look your best for Mother Nature, don’t you?