When the salty air of summer gives way to the cozy lattés of autumn, it’s time to trade in our swimsuits and t-shirts for sweaters and jackets, all of which come with their own special flair this season.
HEAD-TO-TOE COLOUR
Being too “matchy-matchy” used to be considered a fashion sin, but as seen on the runways of Max Mara, Balenciaga and Dolce & Gabbana, bright pink, strong yellow, some lighter greens and lavenders (traditionally “spring”) are the go-to colours this fall and winter. From matching a long jacket with a wide-legged pair of pants in the same hue, or pairing a chic hat with it’s matching purse, head-to-toe colours are no longer the fashion crime they used to be.
If you’re interested in rocking this trend in the cooler months, it’s important to pay attention to your textures and fabrics. Keeping them all in the same family (ex. all cotton) ensures your ensemble will not end up looking overcrowded or “busy.” Also important to note is that head-to-toe colour is not the same as head-to-toe print, which can sometimes lean to a slightly tackier look. If you’re concerned about this trend being “too much,” try a muted colour such as beige or a pastel, thus allowing you to participate in the look while still staying professional and soft.
BLING BLING!
With Christmas parties on the horizon, many of us will be looking to dazzle in those inevitable group photos. This year, standing out has never been easier with the trend of sequins, sparkles, and all that glitters. Observed on numerous runways (including that of Molly Goddard, Chanel and Michael Kors), many types and colours of clothing lit up fashion week. Though it was most commonly seen in the form of a dress, gowns aren’t the only way to bring a little more “dazzle” into your life this season.
Of course, for those looking to make a splash, an all-over sparkle can be a bold and elegant statement, but keep in mind the type of glitter being used. Sequins are more popular for casual looks (such as a skirt or a bag), whereas “micro-sparkle” fabrics (fabrics where the glitter is so small it has often been woven and/or sprayed into the fabric itself) are best suited for formal events. If an all-over dazzle isn’t what you’re after, consider investing in a purse (even a petite one) or a pair of shoes to add just a “pop” of light-catching pigment, without running the risk of someone requiring sunglasses to look in your direction.
HEROINE CHIC
It’s no secret that in the last decade (and last few years in particular), superhero films have flooded our cinemas. Well, many designers have taken notice of this, and now are translating the fashion of our favourite heroes and heroines onto their runways in a wearable way with capes. As spotted on the runways of Burberry, Oscar de la Renta and Dolce & Gabbana, many models sported an elegant capelet on their coats for the colder months. Far from the costumed version seen on the big screen, these capes are subtler and closer to the modern poncho (which became very popular around 10 years ago) than they are to a Halloween costume. Oftentimes styled as long coats that nearly touch the ground with modern slits for your arms (sometimes with a loose sleeve), these capes serve as an elegant way to keep warm and stay chic in the cozier months.
Wearing this look, despite seeming daunting, is incredibly simple (especially for a working professional). If purchased in a neutral colour (like brown, grey or black), they can be worn over virtually any outfit to keep you warm and contemporary. Like with any form of outerwear, a scarf can be used both as an accessory or as a means of staying warm. A fashionable pair of boots with matching gloves gives a polished finish. Because the cape-jacket is so loose, it should be paired with items that are more fitted to the body (such as pants) to avoid appearing too bohemian.
The weather outside may get frightening but fall and winter 2019 will be so delightful (and chic) with these new trends for any age.
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