With a new spring/summer collection, 1+1, ready to hit stores; Lover has once again managed to enchant its cult followers with a more casual, relaxed approach to dressing.

Known for their quirky, feminine, street designs; their delicate silk and lace blouses have adorned the likes of Rachel Bilson, Mischa Barton, Charlize Theron and our very own Abbie Cornish. Girl band, The Like - seen frequently on Cobrasnake - are ardent fans, as is Joanna Newsom.

The look is rock’n’roll 70s style - think Stevie Nicks only less floaty and with a cropped jacket.

This winter saw Lover combining leather and lace, inspired by the events at Altamont in 1969  -  a free concert featuring The Rolling Stones with security provided by the Hells Angels which got out of hand, causing a riot among the 30,000 attendees and one death. With pieces selling out before they even hit the shop floor, the anticipation for summer was palpable.

1+1, designer Susien Chong and creative director Nic Briand have used a California girl muse. Drawing inspiration from films such as Robert Altman’s 3 Women and the skater films Dogtown and Z Boys for their denim and pastel shades. The silk and lace which has long been a Lover trademark has temporarily been replaced with simple cotton and jersey fabrics, making the pieces perfect for a quick change at the beach or for a simple stroll down the street. The silhouette is relaxed and slouchy and for the first time, Lover will launch a swimwear line, utilizing Chong’s extensive experience working on the Zimmerman swimwear range, which was only hinted at in previous collections in the form of flattering one-piece bodysuits.  

As the new collection starts to arrive in stores this week, the anticipation has reached fever pitch and is in no danger of waning.

See the Lover website for stockist information and pictures from the collecton.