Stella McCartney has been riding on a high lately, delivering clothes the ladies want to wear season after season. You will note that we have not even mentioned Celine yet, and this is because we are still trying to get to grips about not loving it. Eeeeep never thought those words could be uttered. So, back to Stella. She is probably the only one really going head to head with former assistant Phoebe Philo, to vie for the title of chicest womenswear designer. Hannah MacGibbon is long out at Chloé, and that’s another story all together. So after the strange Celine SS2012 show, Stella McCartney was a breath of fresh air. Literally.

The whites were whiter and all the models were glowing as if they had just stepped off a yacht or some kind of poolside scenario. The softly tailored aspect was present as usual, but this time with a scalloped almost baroque (Prada sunglasses anyone) detail down the centre front. The show then moved seamlessly into lounge wear – perfect for night time on said yacht. There was a very 70s vibe to the burgundy print, seen best in an all in one long sleeved jumpsuit. Next up was the other side of the 70s pond – slouchy polo shorts worn with matching mini shorts and pool slippers. We know Stella has a thing for strange shoes – notably Birkenstocks, having developed a certain pair with a heel in the past, but we will forgive her. These actually did look cute with the matching fire engine red geometric sunglasses.

The latter half of the show is where Stella finally got down to business. Serious tailoring in a print of different scales, worn head to toe with a matching clutch. It was easy daywear at its best and will no doubt be taking over as the clothing du jour come next fashion week. Paisley made an appearance in blues and burgundy – looking slightly porn star worn with a satin bomber jacket. The last few dresses were summer incarnations of her previous hits, sure fire red carpet numbers, too. We love the contrasting blue, black and white in the one shoulder confection worn by Anja Rubik. So good.

So Stella – you have done it again. Thankfully! We were beginning to lose hope in our favourite labels this season.