The Arrival of New Elegance By Christa Catharina Muller

 

Fashion is a form of art and as such a reflection on what is happening in the world. In the threat of terrorist attacks, global warming and bird flu – clothes reflect protective and modest silhouettes. Take the tailored 40s style for example: originally people during the 40s would wear their best clothes all day and everyday due to rationing and lack of money. Years later the sober 40s were referenced by many designers after 9/11 and once again, the mood returns this autumn. No loose hemlines, all very fitted, conservative, proper and in place. When it’s a time of uncertainty it seems tradition regains value.

 

 

There might be some fashionistas who still mourn the end of “boho chic,” but the arrival of new elegance is at least as fashionable a trend as it is versatile and lasting.

 

 

Take an example: There are all sorts of black dresses. A short PVC one combined with chunky jewellery perfectly fits into the hippest party hotspot. Long and sleek is an ideal option for a dinner party. A classic little black dress, however, can do both jobs and more. Depending on selected accessories, e.g. pearl earrings, bright red nail polish or just a disarming smile, the classic can turn elegant, sexy or casual. But be careful: the impact derives from the person wearing the dress, not from the dress itself.

 

 

{mosimage} The quest is about personality, style and fashion knowledge. Think of icons such as Jackie O, Audrey Hepburn or Grace Kelly – their outfits are never out of fashion. The confidence with which they pull off their style, the immediate impact of their persona and the attitude towards fashion as a statement is what makes each of them a fashion icon. This isn’t about being a star because everyone can get some glamour into his or her wardrobe.

 

 

 

{mosimage}The latest example is Victoria Beckham. First came the haircut (a classic bob) and slowly but surely a completely new woman evolved. Gone are the days when the WAG had extensions, solarium tan and was wearing everything tight and short available on the market. The new Mrs Beckham is dressed in feminine outfits. She is mostly wearing discreet colours such as sand, black, white and grey. She has become a regular at fashion shows and pulls off Chanel, Armani and Cavalli with such implicitness we almost forget about her fake tan alter ego. Posh Barbie has gone, or at least let’s hope so.

 

 

The overkill of overt sexuality was going to end eventually. The side effect is the rediscovery of a key item wardrobe and a more elaborated and chic look. Instead of running after all the latest trends or desperately waiting for season sales to arrive, it might be cleverer to try styling for a change. Take a white blouse, a figure hugging skirt and a classic belt – done: sexy, sophisticated and modern. With the right accessories this look that works from morning to night.

 

 

 

 

Where’s the rub? Why isn’t anybody just embracing the new elegance? Well, you must have the key staples in your wardrobe. Once it’s complete the styling is pretty easy as they all work with the rest. The trick is not to buy the first thing you see, but to be able to balance quality classics with trendy pieces, select the right accessories and work on your charisma. It’s crucial that you feel confident in your clothes. The new elegance is an educated approach to style. Understanding fashion is more than just wearing a fancy designer sample to a celebrity wedding. No wonder Victoria Beckham is spending more and more time in galleries these days.

 

 

 

By Christa Catharina Muller

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