The new Ports 1961 Resort lookbook, shot in the picturesque courtyard of the label's palazzo in Milan, instantly puts you in a vacation state of mind. The setting wasn't the only factor doing the transporting here, though. The strapless maxi dress is the kind of thing one might wear with lace-up gladiator sandals to a waterfront wedding in Ibiza, say, and there were plenty more leisurely looks where that came from. Designer Fiona Cibani commissioned a local Tuscan artist to create the striking, mosaic-like floral print, which appeared on silk palazzo pants, button-ups, and a curve-hugging knit jacquard dress. More work went into this particular frock than its effortless appeal would suggest: Ports' jacquard loom can only process six colors at a time, and the collectsion's unique pattern features seven, so they had to run it through the machine twice. That probably accounts for its $2,895 price tag, but the label's jet-setting customer appreciates such attention to detail, and can, presumably, afford it. There were several more straightforward pieces, like a lavender crepe shift with a fluttering persimmon cascade that will still make a strong impact while saving the Ports gal more money for plane fare.
