At first glance, one would think that the references behind Audra’s Fall 2019 Collection were more of a romantic vintage setting, but in reality, Audra Noyes was inspired by farming this season. That quaint lifestyle (for others, it’s an occupation) of growing and managing produce is such a utilitarian notion that it inspired Noyes to create a wardrobe that’s similarly pragmatic in principle. Hence, instead of prairie dresses and floaty floral frocks that are usually expected when taking on such a reference, she put forth an array of workwear that’s chic and, ironically, quite urban. The use of vertical stripes and checks suggest that this farmstead approach is more in the vein of how the English went about it in decades past—adding a slight tinge of romanticism for good fun. Not to mention the soft and airy floral pieces by the end, which were worn with the stark white tailored separates. But the clothes themselves, with the precise tailoring, multiple pockets, and pleated finishes (for more agency), are definitely clothes women can and want to work in. They’re splashed here with a vibrant color palette of aubergine, lilac, navy, and burgundy to make for eye-catching impacts. Working was never that alluring a lifestyle to attain, but with such clothes to wear, it now has a more romantic feel to it than ever before!
Photo: Black & Steil / Courtesy of Audra
