Finally, the day arrived that the entire fashion world was waiting for with breaths bated! Paris fashion week, showcasing the fabulous designer chic that was up for grabs in the designers new fashion lines. A final sigh of relief could be felt whoosing out of everyone's months, as they finally found out what the next year of fashion would hold in store.
On the catwalks there was a spirit of flamboyance throughout where couture-like silhouettes (think cocooning dresses at Stella McCartney, low-waisted coats at YSL and dolman sleeve jackets at Louis Vuitton), luxurious fabrics and layers of texture finally ousted the spirit of austerity and utility that has carried trends for so long.
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| Balenciaga |
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| Louis Vuitton |
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| Stella McCartney |
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| YSL |
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| Chanel | | | | |
It's time to think of investment pieces - Hermès' quilted duvet coat or Balenciaga's handknitted leather jacket. There is a new enthusiasm for chic fetish - see Givenchy's transparent peek-a-boo skirts and Louis Vuitton's collars, cuffs and caps. Hemlines note are definitely longer although that mid-calf length is going to take some getting used to. Chanel also reinvented the trouser suit, à la masculine as well as the long-sleeved sheath dress from Celine's line.
Of course, these trends will slowly filter down into the high street into a much wearable version of the designer feasts. The biggest trend this autumn/winter 2011 will most assuredly be colour-blocking and Navajo (Native American Indian prints). These two trends started to gain popularity in the late summer months and steam-rollered into the autumn/winter trend books. Look out for colourful jeans, shift dresses, sexy silk blouses and handbags to fulfill the colour-blocking trends. To completely blow the Navajo trend out the water, look for leggings in bright prints, chunky printed knits and fringe-detailed bags and boots.
Another huge trend that has reared it's head again is the faux fur look. The high street is awash with statement coats in leopard, dalmatian and anamalistic prints. However, if you really want to make a statement, get yourself a bright red coat. The best available coats can be found at French Connection, River Island, Primark and Oasis.
Andogeny or masculine tailoring will be huge again this year, along with a revival of the knee-high boot in outrageous colours and prints. And look out for the glitz and glamour with all-out girly sex appeal being driven up a notch with leather, lingerie, sequinns, glitter and lace being a huge staple for evening wear.
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| These pictures have been taken from the River Island website, and all items can be bought from the site too. |
Ideally, this season holds a little something for everyone. Really make this season your own and create a unique look that captures your personality and beauty to perfection.
