Trend Tracker from Summer to Fall

 

Judging by many of the Autumn/Winter collections designers from H&M to Prada are playing a very safe game. As per usual there is something for everyone with a general dose of maturity and style. Looking at the retail figures, this current moment in time isn’t probably the best for introducing a collection that pushes all the boundaries. What you will find, however, are this seasons winners reinterpreted for the chillier months, perhaps something to bear in mind when faced with all those sale rails…

 

Tiered Skirts

 

The gypsy/boho look has been the biggest summer seller. Adopted by women of all ages – it’s flattering, summery and easy to wear. The tiered skirt has been key with styles ranging from floor length to shorter knee-length options. For fans of the look, fear not, this winter boho style travels to the likes of Russia, Eastern Europe and Tibet with a dash of folksy feel. Designers sticking with the look include – Diane Von Furstenberg, Cacharel, Costume National and Boyd.

 

 

 

Intricate Knits

 

Thanks to a slow start in the summer department knitwear has become an essential layering piece. Not just any old knitwear, there have been some great little cardi’s knocking about – all curved hems, crochet panels and intricate designs. For the autumn months designers are touting a variety of wrap cardigans, fitted pullovers and sweater dresses, many of which feature pretty open weave designs. Check out John Rocha, Bora Aksu and Julien Macdonald.

 

 

 

Waistcoats

 

Whatever you may think about the current obsession with celebrity – no-one can deny their ability to kick off a trend. Kate Moss is quite possibly the trend queen here in the UK – and it’s well known that she’s fond of the odd waistcoat or two. This summer waistcoats have been selling in High Streets up and down the country and the mood is set to continue in heavier fabrics for autumn. Designers doing the waistcoat thing include – Gharani Strok, Balenciaga and Chanel.

 

 

 

 

Fitted Jackets

 

Snug jackets they’ve been around for a few seasons and are rapidly becoming a wardrobe staple. For autumn they are luxed up in soft leathers, plush velvets and cosy sheepskins. From New York to Milan – for inspiration of the fitted kind take a look at – Burberry Prorsum, Basso & Brooke, Stella McCartney and Hermes.

 

 

 

 

Empire Line Dresses

 

Despite the drop in temperature for most in the northern hemisphere many designers seem to forget about the season’s altogether. On the positive side key pieces can indeed be worn all year round with the right bit of styling. Take the floaty empire line dress, many around at the moment feature summery prints and boho embellishments while autumns versions arrive in deep velvets and satins with a touch of evening dress appeal. Autumn/Winter 05/06 collections that feature empire line frocks include – Matthew Williamson, Alberta Ferretti and Anna Sui.

 

 

 

 

Cropped Trousers

 

Another grower on the fashion scale is the cropped trouser, we saw smart versions of the look last winter and there’s more this time around – from wide-leg culottes to slim line knickerbockers. Julien Macdonald did high waisted versions in velvet, while Margaret Howell did a flattering pair in a wide leg cropped just below the knee. Others joining in with their cropped designs include – Nicole Farhi, Collardo Garcia and Marc by Marc Jacobs.

 

 

 

 

By JoJo Iles