The woman whose designs embody the cool Parisian vibe.

by Angie Chen

There is probably not a single woman who is not envious of that je ne sais quoi aesthetic that French women are known for. In fact, many have tried to emulate this aesthetic at a certain point in their life. After all, the "French Woman" and her style have been referred to extensively on countless editorials and has countless of books dedicated to her.

Having said that, there is no other brand that personifies this look as much as cult favourite Isabel Marant. With its high-profile IT girl clique following and designs that adapt to a woman's lifestyle, Marant's fuss free details with a bohemian touch has captured the attention of many fashion insiders.

Marant founded her namesake label in 1990, but the brand was then called Twen. It was renamed to what it is known as today in 1994 and the rest, as they always say, is fashion history. Known for her easy-to-wear pieces with just the right amount of that rock N' roll sensibility and silhouettes, Marant's clothes became the uniform of choice for the army of ultra stylish French women. Soon, women all around the world began to take notice.

Just a few years ago, before the brand’s slow and steady expansion, part of the brand’s charm was the inaccessibility and almost brag worthy scores when you were able to purchase one of the highly coveted Beckett sneakers or Dicker boots. Marant designs strictly for a woman in mind and places her lifestyle of utmost importance. Her collections, with her loose fit knitwear, embroidered mini dresses and well cut peasant blouses, seamlessly fit into any wardrobe. What Marant wanted was for the woman wearing her clothes to be able to wear them time and again (and often in different ways) with whatever she already has in her own wardrobe.

At THE FIFTH COLLECTION, we’ve been fortunate enough to go through amazing closets full of runway treasures from the brand.

Here, we've chosen some of our personal favourites that have been key pieces from the various collections and featured on many advertising campaigns.

1. OJIMA BLOUSE

This Ojima blouse is one of our favourites because of it's made from lightweight fabric, with delicate details and ruffles. We love how this casual piece is featured on the runway and simply paired with trousers. Unfortunately this blouse has already been sold at time of publish but we’ll be looking out for new ones! Remember you can always speak to us via our chat if you’re looking for anything and we’ll include you in our hunting list.

2. Becky dress

We love the rock chic aesthetic that Marant has perfected with a slightly feminine touch but not detracting from its edgy look with the cutout details and sequins.
Shop this Becky Sequinned Dress (SGD 170)

3. Embroidered toga dress

This mini toga dress may have such a relaxed silhouette but the subtle details such as the fabric, embroidery and fold over front give it a dressy touch.
Shop this Embroidered Toga Dresss (SGD 650)

4. Belted collared wrap vest

We love how this padded wrap vest is so versatile, it can be worn over jeans, skirts or dresses or whether it’s outerwear or as a top. One of our favourite looks from Spring 2015, pair it also with a fringed mini like how it was presented on the runway.
Shop this Belted Cotton Wrap Vest (SGD 350)

5. Knit Haeza dress

No one does the Breton/nautical stripe as well as the French do. This Knit Haeza striped dress has all the details to give an extra oomph to the classic stripe. The bold rib shows off the details at shoulder coupled with buttons and folded cuffs.
Shop this Knit Haeza dress (SGD 400)

6. Glitz Plisse mini skirt

We’ve already sold the exact skirt, but this Glitz mini skirt is a serious contender with it’s delicate pleats, and subtle tiers for the discerning shopper that wants something more classic. Isabel Marant is known for her ruffled minis paired with a loose t-shirt and oversized blazer in order to balance out the look.
Shop this Glitz Plisse Cotton Mini Skirt (SGD 400)

Shop Isabel Marant Collection