This fall, no true fashion revolution took place. Instead, designers focused on twisting the basics and playing with colors, textures and patterns in a carefree way that allows us, in turn, to have fun with the classics in our wardrobe. The overall attitude was one of effortless chic: a woman who is comfortable in her own skin, playful enough to bond casual with sophisticated and bold enough to mix prints like plaid and florals. The silhouettes were feminine, but surprising, with witty accessories and psychedelic furs.
Foxy Lady
Fur has been an ongoing trend on the runway for a few seasons, but it is now taking a new turn by deploying unusually bright colors. First seen at Prada last year, many designers, including Thakoon, Gucci and Emanuel Ungaro, have begun dying their coats and fur throws in vibrant pinks, blues and greens. Amplifying its influence by taking over accessories, fur was found on plush slippers at Joseph Altuzarra, Yeti sunglasses at Alexander Wang and a totally fuzzy messenger bag at Michael Kors. Incorporate the trend with a faux-fur vest, or look for fluffy fur trims on parkas and coats.
The ‘60s
Inspired by the poise and spirit of fashion icons such as Jean Shrimpton and Twiggy, many designers instilled the fresh and joyful energy of the ‘60s to their collections. Prada showed a decadent ‘60s school girl, while Burberry Prorsum used vibrant colors on classic Mod silhouettes. Distinctive signs of this trend included an extravaganza of color blocking, large geometric prints and polka dots. Try a modern take on the trend by combining an A-line coat with opaque leggings and some flats, or include retro elements like a cape, round sunglasses or a teased up do. Now is the time to channel your inner Edie Sedgwick!
Supersize it
Oversized, chunky sweaters are a season favorite and the ultimate piece that will match anything in your closet to create the relaxed elegance seen in looks by Alexander Wang and Tommy Hilfiger. You may go crochet, like masters Proenza Schouler and Christopher Kane, or you may favor ethnic prints and vintage finds for a Bohemian vibe. Loose, cozy knits can easily be combined with last summer’s maxi skirt and some Converse Chuck Taylors. Thick, wool pull-overs will serve to add some grunge and warmth to a pair of leggings and boots, or will add a boyish touch to a button-up and flats.
High-Tech
While Nike shorts and a North Face fleece hoodie do not qualify as sportswear chic, smart and sporty basics have made their appearance at Jil Sander, Derek Lam and Chloé to inspire us into dynamic and modern looks that remain stylish and feminine. Easy to translate into every day outfits, there were bright pants at DKNY, athletic stripes at Céline, fancy sneakers at Balenciaga and pops of neon just about everywhere. Try flare pants with a big stripe on each side, techy leggings, sleek jersey sweaters or electric sporty accessories.
Autumn Colors
This fall’s colors were inspired by nature, and all hues of the autumn leaves were present: mustard, honeysuckle, crimson red and cascading shades of beige and brown. These warm seasonal tones added beautiful color to casual and classy looks alike with an inclination toward country-meets-urban looks and endless variations of plaid. Gucci, and Hermès created head-to-toe looks for a soft and sophisticated femininity. An easy palette to adopt, use it without moderation and consider layering pieces, such as a camel coat, rusty cardigan, chestnut leather boots or saffron scarf.
