When graphic print obsessive Holly Fulton let it be known that the inspiration for her spring and summer collection was ‘Joan Collins on a cruise’ we knew that La Collin’s aesthetic would be filtered through a reassuringly Noughties lens. So we had a look for every occasion of an expensive holiday at sea - but none of it retro or pastiche. Holly had packed - a bandeau bikini, high-waisted culotte-type shorts in printed silk (of course), a turquoise little wrap-dress that tied at the side of the waist, high-waisted printed silk palazzo pants, flaring out to very wide hems and very fabulous indeed - and lots of dresses in a variety of shapes

The simple shift dresses with elaborate geometric prints that are Holly’s signature came with a thick raffia fringe around the hem, (will we be wearing raffia next summer? A LOT of designers seem to think so). There were also floor-length silk printed dresses, which would be IDEAL for cocktails at dusk on deck, and an acid yellow fitted-then-flared dress in what looked to be PVC, which would be perfect to wear at the port – trotting in front of a minion wheeling your ten Vuitton trunks on a trolley.

Prints abounded on most but not every garment, and where they took up some pieces entirely, others had been shrunk down and repeated, like on shorts, summer skirts and the sundress. For every collection Holly creates magnificent, oversized statement jewellery in Perspex and metal, but this time special mention should go to the wonderful, covetable clutches in dazzling colours, one emblazoned with the instruction – Holly Says Relax. We liked the sentiment, but knew deep down that when you’re as fabulous as Joan you never ease up as far as your outfit is concerned.

- Naomi Attwood