For our December issue of ELLE the fashion team turns to one of our favourite trends this summer – resort wear. Think shimmering sequins, hues of blue and frothy white worn with sand-coloured gold and oversized pearls.
Get your December issue now to see our ‘Ocean Colour Scene’ shoot laid out on glossy pages. Don’t forget to press the play button (below) to see the behind-the-scenes video.
But, before you do, we ask fashion director Poppy Evans a few questions about her shoot.
‘It’s all about beach chic this season and the seaside is the only place to be seen this summer,’ says Poppy.
1. Inspiration for shoot?
Resort wear is on the rise and with that comes a new focus on daytime glamour. Hues of blue are a major summer trend as is metallic. I liked the idea of playing with elements reminiscent of the ocean without it being all about beachwear.
2. Location?
It made sense to shoot the story beside the sea as the natural colours and iridescent textures complement the wardrobe. We chose to shoot along Sea Point promenade in Cape Town.
3. The model?
Courtney had to tolerate gale force winds as well as intense sunlight on shoot day – it was challenging for her to even remain on the ground, let alone look as though she was enjoying herself; she did a great job at keeping her composure.
4. Favourite shot?
I don’t have a favourite shot, but I know our photographer Richard loves the shot with the car – which just so happens to be his own jaguar!
5. Best item in the shoot?
I would have to say the shoes as I went out and bought them after the shoot. It’s Murphy’s Law that they got stolen out of my car two days later…
6. Any hiccups?
The weather was not our friend on shoot day. It got so bad we had to piggyback the model everywhere and I was afraid the Louis Vuitton bags would go flying over the promenade and into the sea.
7. The resort trend in three words is…
Chic, understated, glamorous.
8. Any tips for wearing the resort trend?
Throw in something unexpected when styling an outfit – like a biker jacket or a crazy print; don’t play it too safe.
Here are some images from behind the scenes: 
Go get our December issue and learn how to look beach chic!
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