Autumn's Wear-Abouts: a trend report

Unlike summer 2008, a season that evoked bold colors and elaborate designs such as florals and tribal/global prints, (I was a fan of bright yellow nailpolish, pink makeup, and floral sundresses) trend followers can expect to see much more minimalist wear around September as well as a rustic, natural wardrobe inspired by the countryside. High profile designers such as Carolina Herrera and Michael Kors utilize fur, leather, velvet, plaid, and tweed to exhibit this trend on the major fashion week runways. To add an aura of innocence to even the most decadent country-like materials if one wanted to look rustic-y in school or at work, I would center the look around one large plaid piece such as a trenchcoat and keep the fur at a minimum -maybe limited to earmuffs, vests, or shoes.

And hair is not to be let loose but should be contained in silk headscarves and small hats. Popular colors that play up this countryside elegance include grey, olive green, light brown, and royal purple.

For this fall, a modish word is longer. Dresses and skirts are going down to the floor, almost hiding shoes. These lengthy ensembles which often are displayed in layers and are meant to fit the long and lean, are surprisingly conservative. Marc Jacobs is a fan of longer cuts as seen in one of his most interesting, almost mermaid-like designs:


 
Fashionistas remember the splendor and mystery of the Spring 2008 Costume Gala at the Met based off a superhero inspired lookbook. Think edgy additions to classic fitted cuts, such as spikes on a slinky black dress or a futuristic aluminum-colored cape like this one:

It also depends on where you place the metallic. A sparkling minidress looks great over leggings when attending a party, but to really look like a superhero, a victim of the trend  should conceal it when possible, limit the sparkle to belts, pendants, or boots. Hair and makeup really factor into the superhero worship style; severely smoky eyes are key for an eerie yet powerful gaze. I would also describe the superhero look as rather geometric and only really makes a lasting impact when every piece of the ensemble (pant, shoe, top, layers, jacket, jewelry) contrast in form, line, and shade of color.

* inspired by style.com, top image associatedcontent.com, instyle.com