Look Forward To: Fall 09 Fashion Trends
Generally speaking, we try to present balanced coverage on WhoWhatWear.com. By that, we don't mean that we give all celebrities and designers equal exposure—clearly, there's a point of view at work here—but we do strive for a certain accessibility in our stories. Typically there's equilibrium: for every impossible-to-wear piece we mention, we'll find a more forgiving one, and for every madly expensive item, we'll suggest an affordable substitute. But twice a year we chuck all that fairness and just go for full-throttle fantasy. Today, dear readers, that biannual moment has arrived again, and we're overjoyed to present our seasonal style preview! We hope you enjoy our edit of some of the boldest and best runway looks in Look Forward To: Fall Fashion Trends!
Platform Pumps
Though we definitely love the brazen statement of the thigh-high boot (more on that in a moment), we're also crazy about the new wave of platform pumps. Some of our favorites thus far include Yves Saint Laurent's Imperiale Pumps
($795), as seen on the runway above, and Nicholas Kirkwood's Python Web Suede Sandals
($1800). Hopefully this isn't wishful thinking, but we have a feeling there will be some amazing high-street versions of these pronounced platforms shortly!
Images from left: Nicholas Kirkwood, Yves Saint Laurent
Razzle-Dazzle Legs
Tights are always a major component in our autumnal outfits, but this season we're going to take our opaques to the next level and try an embellished, textured, ornate pair. Look to Cynthia Rowley for some of the season's best examples; we're obsessed with her Embellished Tights ($250), which will be available on her site the first week of September. All in all, it's the perfect way to upgrade some of your more basic pieces for a relatively minimal investment.
Images from left: Emanuel Ungaro, Cynthia Rowley, Miu Miu
Chunky Chokers
Cascading chains captivated us last year, but this time around the statement necklace has gotten shorter and turned into the chunky choker. Whether said piece involves metal rings, bold beads, or sparkly rhinestones, this is definitely a trend to start wearing now.
Images clockwise from left: Louis Vuitton, Bottega Venetta, Giorgio Armani
Lingerie Display
The neckline of the moment isn't for the faint, as it plunges nearly to the waist and turns the spotlight on your lingerie! That said, we loved the unabashedly revealing look of a peek-a-boo lace bandeau at Balenciaga and the simple neutral triangle bras at Miu Miu. Note to self: start stocking up on those beautiful bralettes and bandeaus now...
Images from left: Stella McCartney, Miu Miu, Balenciaga
Winter Shorts
While we've waffled about the whole tights-with-shorts combo, it's indisputably a full-blown trend these days. The good news is this key piece comes in an assortment of fabrics—from wool to leather to lamé—so finding the right pair shouldn't be hard. Daring readers will flip for the Leather Hot Pants ($650) at 3.1 Phillip Lim, which looked amazing over burgundy opaque tights, while more conservative dressers might like Proenza Schouler's salt-and-pepper Tailored Wool Suiting Shorts
($780).
Images from left: Proenza Schouler, Emporio Armani, 3.1 Phillip Lim
Sculpted Shoulders
The power shoulder continues to dominate this season, which is no surprise really, especially considering how influential the eighties are right now! Early proponents of this look (Givenchy, Balmain) are still endorsing the silhouette, though fall's look is more refined than previous iterations. This time around, try jackets and dresses that have a subtler sculpted shoulder—it's a more wearable look anyways!
Images clockwise from upper left: Givenchy, Balmain, Jonathan Saunders
Slouchy Overcoats
There were gorgeous jackets galore on the fall runways, but when the weather starts to cool down, there's only one piece you're going to want: the slouchy overcoat. This oversized item is a must-buy investment piece with a bit of a menswear-meets-dressing-gown attitude (so very Lloyd Dobler). If that doesn't make sense, just look to the unstructured styles from Chloe and Louis Vuitton to get the right vibe.
Images clockwise from upper left: Chloe, MaxMara, Burberry Prorsum
Thigh-High Boots
In addition to the more ladylike platform pump, the thigh-high boot is still going strong for fall. The shape can be either super skinny (à la Rodarte and Isabel Marant) or relaxed and easy (per Etro and Dries Van Noten); obviously the latter is a little more forgiving. There are lots of covetable designer pairs in stores already, like Brian Atwood's Suede Thigh-Highs
($1235) or Costume National's Over-The-Knee Boots
($1455), so if you're going to invest, you probably should take the plunge soon.
Images from left: Rodarte, Pucci, Louis Vuitton
Long-Sleeve Mini Dress
If you're going to buy one dress this season, make it a mini with long sleeves. Whether it's sequin-emblazoned, detailed with zippers and studs, or simply asymmetrical, this style is having a major moment right now. Alexander Wang's fall collection contains a number of excellent examples, like the Slim Grommet Dress
($550) and Long Sleeve Goddess Dress
($590), that are sure to be a big hit with the downtown crowd.
Images from left: Gucci, Charlotte Ronson, Phi
Metallic Mix-Ups
The fall runways were stuffed with lamé looks and outfits made from metallic materials (it's a serious shine-fest out there). While we're not shying away from the glitz, it's best to mix these theatrical fabrics with more sober matte pieces. We'll look to the styling at shows like Isabel Marant and Dries Van Noten for guidance on how to incorporate these shimmery pieces in a wearable way.
Images from left: Isabel Marant, Etro, Dries Van Noten
Runway images from firstVIEW.
Platform Pumps
Though we definitely love the brazen statement of the thigh-high boot (more on that in a moment), we're also crazy about the new wave of platform pumps. Some of our favorites thus far include Yves Saint Laurent's Imperiale Pumps
Images from left: Nicholas Kirkwood, Yves Saint Laurent
Razzle-Dazzle Legs
Tights are always a major component in our autumnal outfits, but this season we're going to take our opaques to the next level and try an embellished, textured, ornate pair. Look to Cynthia Rowley for some of the season's best examples; we're obsessed with her Embellished Tights ($250), which will be available on her site the first week of September. All in all, it's the perfect way to upgrade some of your more basic pieces for a relatively minimal investment.
Images from left: Emanuel Ungaro, Cynthia Rowley, Miu Miu
Chunky Chokers
Cascading chains captivated us last year, but this time around the statement necklace has gotten shorter and turned into the chunky choker. Whether said piece involves metal rings, bold beads, or sparkly rhinestones, this is definitely a trend to start wearing now.
Images clockwise from left: Louis Vuitton, Bottega Venetta, Giorgio Armani
Lingerie Display
The neckline of the moment isn't for the faint, as it plunges nearly to the waist and turns the spotlight on your lingerie! That said, we loved the unabashedly revealing look of a peek-a-boo lace bandeau at Balenciaga and the simple neutral triangle bras at Miu Miu. Note to self: start stocking up on those beautiful bralettes and bandeaus now...
Images from left: Stella McCartney, Miu Miu, Balenciaga
Winter Shorts
While we've waffled about the whole tights-with-shorts combo, it's indisputably a full-blown trend these days. The good news is this key piece comes in an assortment of fabrics—from wool to leather to lamé—so finding the right pair shouldn't be hard. Daring readers will flip for the Leather Hot Pants ($650) at 3.1 Phillip Lim, which looked amazing over burgundy opaque tights, while more conservative dressers might like Proenza Schouler's salt-and-pepper Tailored Wool Suiting Shorts
Images from left: Proenza Schouler, Emporio Armani, 3.1 Phillip Lim
Sculpted Shoulders
The power shoulder continues to dominate this season, which is no surprise really, especially considering how influential the eighties are right now! Early proponents of this look (Givenchy, Balmain) are still endorsing the silhouette, though fall's look is more refined than previous iterations. This time around, try jackets and dresses that have a subtler sculpted shoulder—it's a more wearable look anyways!
Images clockwise from upper left: Givenchy, Balmain, Jonathan Saunders
Slouchy Overcoats
There were gorgeous jackets galore on the fall runways, but when the weather starts to cool down, there's only one piece you're going to want: the slouchy overcoat. This oversized item is a must-buy investment piece with a bit of a menswear-meets-dressing-gown attitude (so very Lloyd Dobler). If that doesn't make sense, just look to the unstructured styles from Chloe and Louis Vuitton to get the right vibe.
Images clockwise from upper left: Chloe, MaxMara, Burberry Prorsum
Thigh-High Boots
In addition to the more ladylike platform pump, the thigh-high boot is still going strong for fall. The shape can be either super skinny (à la Rodarte and Isabel Marant) or relaxed and easy (per Etro and Dries Van Noten); obviously the latter is a little more forgiving. There are lots of covetable designer pairs in stores already, like Brian Atwood's Suede Thigh-Highs
Images from left: Rodarte, Pucci, Louis Vuitton
Long-Sleeve Mini Dress
If you're going to buy one dress this season, make it a mini with long sleeves. Whether it's sequin-emblazoned, detailed with zippers and studs, or simply asymmetrical, this style is having a major moment right now. Alexander Wang's fall collection contains a number of excellent examples, like the Slim Grommet Dress
Images from left: Gucci, Charlotte Ronson, Phi
Metallic Mix-Ups
The fall runways were stuffed with lamé looks and outfits made from metallic materials (it's a serious shine-fest out there). While we're not shying away from the glitz, it's best to mix these theatrical fabrics with more sober matte pieces. We'll look to the styling at shows like Isabel Marant and Dries Van Noten for guidance on how to incorporate these shimmery pieces in a wearable way.
Images from left: Isabel Marant, Etro, Dries Van Noten
Runway images from firstVIEW.
We're definitely fans of the warm summer weather, but THIS is why we always get excited about fall and winter. It's hard to pick favorites, but the embellished tights and chokers are top of the list. Signature9
Posted by: Signature9 | 2009-11-04 08:28:38
nGr1Pk I want to say - thank you for this!
Posted by: lilikindsli | 2009-10-05 01:53:51
Love these fall trends!
Posted by: rhull | 2009-08-22 14:12:22
The long sleeved mini dresses are beautiful as well as the platform heels. Love them! Wish I could walk on them. haha. :) I like the shorts also... They're always comfortable.
Posted by: Janine | 2009-08-19 04:05:06
I absolutely adore the slouchy overcoat trend! However, I am failing to find this style underneath $500, (which is what I am willing to invest in this year's overcoat.) Does anyone have any ideas? xoxo
Posted by: Promise | 2009-08-11 21:04:57
i love razzle-dazzle legs best!
Posted by: aza | 2009-08-10 12:34:44
Wrong blog!! Sorry, it was http://everyone-elses-girl.blogspot.com/ http://everyone-elses-girl.blogspot.com/ http://everyone-elses-girl.blogspot.com/ http://everyone-elses-girl.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Jay | 2009-08-09 16:28:19
WOW at the longsleeved mini dresses! Best one here is the Gucci bluegreen sequin print one. I love adding some animal print and sequins too, so many trends at once! Definately considering getting my own high street version of the longsleeved mini - any suggestions? Found my fave so far on http://www.fashionsembrace.blogspot.com/ What do people think? Is there a better version out there anywhere? I'm tempted to say theres not.
Posted by: Jay | 2009-08-09 16:20:50
I luve mini dress so much and I have the very beautiful legs. I have some secret just go to http://cutieberry.co.cc
Posted by: Cutie Berry | 2009-08-09 06:49:17
love, love, love the KNEE HIGH BOOTS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: vikky | 2009-08-08 23:34:42
Nive one
Posted by: test | 2009-08-08 13:06:10
Charlotte Russe is selling their basic and elegant platform pumps for $25 http://bit.ly/24cU
Posted by: katluvsshoes | 2009-08-07 14:19:25
i LOVE the new thigh high boots! i just bought steve madden's new luxe lizzy boots, and i'm in loveee! there cute and very affordable, only $130!
Posted by: jenna | 2009-08-07 13:17:03
Actually, Kate you are incorrect. Biannual does mean twice a year. Biennial means once every two years.
Posted by: Liz | 2009-08-06 14:23:56
Unfortunately, you wrote biannual when you really meant semiannual. I wouldn't have felt the need to point this out if I hadn't also noticed a similar error in the last "What Was She Wearing" (bimonthly instead of semimonthly.) Biannual=once every two years. Semiannual=twice a year.
Posted by: Katie | 2009-08-05 19:21:04
I am obsessed with those amazing shoes and LV's hair and makeup!
Posted by: Stephanie | 2009-08-05 13:55:45
What an amazing post, this makes me so excited for fall!! Fall is my favorite season to get dressed in, I love all the possibilities you have with layering, although unfortunately I recently moved to Dallas, TX :( Could we please have some examples of a lower price point on these items??
Posted by: Kate | 2009-08-05 07:36:31
I do love the razzle-dazzle legs, long sleeve mini dresses, and sculpted shoulders. But I think whowhatwear has overlooked many other trends for this fall such as, draped dresses, nude tones, booties, and leather jackets. I'm excited for this year in fashion. It will be fun to mix the new 40's and 80's trends into my wardrobe!
Posted by: Rachel | 2009-08-05 04:16:53
I'm absolutely loving this entire post! I'll definitely be investing in some embellished tights and thigh high boots. The long sleeved mini dresses are beautiful! Definitely perfect for fall night out on the town. And the slouchy coats are genius. Great to layer clothes underneath for us girls that live in areas that see negative degree weather. I agree with Megan though.. Not all of us have the cash to afford $500+ shoes, coats, shorts, etc. Can we please have a high end item and then a look-a-like low end item?
Posted by: Brittany | 2009-08-04 18:32:15
oh la la! i love it! the lingerie display is the best oneee, but maybe im not going to display my boobs section, maybe i can use big skirts soy my lingerie can be seen under my arm
Posted by: camille | 2009-08-04 16:31:56
Unfortunately the visible lingerie trend isn't so much appropriate for us working gals! Not trying to incur a sexual lawsuit....But I am very excited for embellished tights and platform pumps! Givenchy's are my favvvv. - Kathleen @ theblackstiletto.blogspot.com
Posted by: Kathleen | 2009-08-04 14:16:09
i wished i lived where i could wear high boots and coats..it never gets cold enough here
tofuscloset.blogspot.com
Posted by: cassie | 2009-08-04 14:11:29
slouchy coats aren't for everyone. shorter ladies like myself just look frumpy in them. such a bummer. but def a fun fall trend. love the looks above! great examples. :) sugarrockcatwalk.com
Posted by: lani | 2009-08-04 13:14:39
Love Etro's collection. Mismatched but perfect, like always. http://lavieboston.wordpress.com/2009/07/29/etro-obsession/
Posted by: Danielle | 2009-08-04 12:57:50
Love the slouchy overcoats and thigh high boots for this fall! www.soobiestyle.com
Posted by: soobie | 2009-08-04 12:00:40
I wish there were more inexpensive options for thigh high boots. All of the good ones are so pricey! Looks like I'll be wearing my knee high boots with thigh high socks again this fall :(
Posted by: Megan | 2009-08-04 11:21:10
I love the tights and the minidresses. www.fringeandbicycles.blogspot.com
Posted by: Stephanie | 2009-08-04 10:15:25
Winter shorts are old!
Posted by: Katie | 2009-08-04 09:24:22
Love love love the long-sleeved mini dresses. I have been waiting for these! http://kwils.blogspot.com
Posted by: Kwil | 2009-08-04 08:43:35
Love all of these trends! I'm definitely investing in some thigh high boots this fall.
Posted by: aimy | 2009-08-04 07:44:13