Look Forward To: Fall Trends
By our calculations, autumn unofficially starts in approximately seven weeks, and that means two things. First of all, we need to wear our white blazers more before it’s too late, and second (and more importantly), it’s time for the Fall 08 Preview! Whenever we put together our biannual sneak-peek stories, we get a little giddy over all the fresh new styles, but this fall is particularly thrilling. Please immerse yourself in our fantasy list of top trends and looks we love, and get ready for another excellent season!
Fall Florals
Maybe it’s the global warming or perhaps designers are just messing with seasonal tradition, either way, this fall you should be prepared to welcome an autumnal garden into your wardrobe. Spring’s pattern craze has streamlined a bit and now the focus will definitely (and somewhat unexpectedly) be on floral prints. We loved the retro vibe of the oversized posies at Thakoon
and Derek Lam, while the photo-quality blooms at Erin Fetherston were stunning too. Another reason we’re welcoming this trend: recycling. True, not all of your existing spring florals will transition into fall, but surely some of them might be appropriate with tights and a cardi, no?
Chain Link
Dear readers, we would like to cordially invite you to join our chain gang. If you accept our offer, you may enjoy the some of the best fall accessories around, like the gold chain cascade of necklaces at Givenchy and Chanel’s long lambskin gloves with chain details. If you’re into this style but want something a little less intense, try the chain necklace from 3.1 Phillip Lim or Maison Martin Margiela’s Short Waterfall Necklace ($275). Also, we encourage you to explore your inner gypsy and wrap some thin chain belts around your hips for a Gucci runway effect.
Slouchy Slacks
Ultra slim jeans and black latex-ish leggings have been popular for ages now, and while the completely lean look is cool, we're personally digging the slouchy trouser. We like the wide-leg versions balanced with a feminine top, as seen at Alexander Wang and Proenza Schouler. If the full-leg slouch slack is too far from your beloved skinnies, you’ll probably prefer the excellent variation Isabel Marant offered for fall. They’re boyishly relaxed at the waist/thigh and taper tightly to the ankle for a tulip-style silhouette.
Power Shoulders
We're thrilled about the return of the strong shoulder as seen at Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, and Jean Paul Gaultier, to name a bunch. The look got kick-started in spring with the pagoda-style shoulders at YSL, but it's nice that we have so many more power shoulder options for fall. If you’re wary of looking too Baby Boom, just remember that now it’s a much more architectural shoulder then the bulky eighties version. Also, a slightly exaggerated shoulder looks particularly amazing with a slim or nipped in waist; it's a traditionally masculine look that actually can make one look very feminine!
Decorative Tights
Tights trends continue to evolve and this season they’re making more of statement than ever. You’ll continue to see lots of bright solids (red, in particular) but our favorites are the many styles of patterned tights. We’re swooning over the intricate black Lace Tights ($250) from the Chanel runway and Chloe’s beautiful Patterned Tights ($150). The latter will arrive in Chloe boutiques by early September and also will be available at Net-A-Porter. They are offered in four colors: spark (dark red), raspberry, bilberries (dark purple), and gray. The unique and varied tights shown at Anna Sui were also excellent and they’re already in stores! Check out the Swirling Rosettes tights ($30), Coptic Print tights ($22), and Abstract Waves tights ($22) at your closest Anna Sui boutique. If you don’t live by one, or can’t wait until the Chanel and Chloe versions arrive in stores, you can satisfy your cravings for fancy stockings by picking up some of Free People's Creeping Flowers Crochet Tights ($34) online today.
Thigh-High Boots
We’ll admit it: there is a part of us that is hesitant to call out fall’s over-the-knee boots as one of the big trends. Having lived through the nineties, we saw how people styled their thigh-high hooker boots and barely lived to tell about it (clearly this is not the look we’re talking about). However, there were so many exceptionally cool versions on the runways we just can’t ignore them. Gucci’s Devendra Boots ($1995) with tassels are mouth-wateringly good and we certainly wouldn’t turn down a pair of Lanvin’s Over-The-Knee Flat Boots ($1440) or the very Carine Roitfeldesque black suede Heaven Boots ($1350) by Jimmy Choo, which will be available next month.
Panda Eyes
Black lipstick was possibly the boldest beauty statement this season (check out Yves Saint Laurent, Giles, and Alice Roi for reference), but we prefer the dark glamour of the also popular panda eye. Our favorite versions came from Viktor & Rolf, Balenciaga, and Lanvin and looked dangerously rock’n’roll. While maquillage uber genius Pat McGrath used black cream eye shadow at Lanvin, we suspect most civilians will find this a bit too intense. Instead try another product McGrath uses and likes, Cover Girl’s Eye Enhancers in Dazzling Metallics. The blendable powder shadows will allow even those of us with very little technical skill to get an approximation of the style. More proficient ladies will like the powder/cream duo of Shu Uemura’s limited edition Instinct Fall Mode Makeup Duo Eye Shadow in Mystifier ($36).
Sexy Sixties Hair
We squealed with joy when we saw the amazing, sixties-inspired, sex kitten hairstyles on the fall runways. The big, bouncy, backcombed looks are thrillingly reminiscent of Raquel Welch in One Million Years B.C. or Veruschka on the cover of Life in the summer of 1967. The wildest version of this style was created by Orlando Pita for Dior, but we also love the modified, more minimal version Guido Palau gave the models at Alberta Ferretti. Also don’t miss the teased ponytail styles at Wunderkind and the full-and-natural versions at DKNY and Just Cavalli—all are very inspiring!
Lace LBDs
The little black dress will always be a constant in our wardrobes, but for fall we want to pick up a new version in black lace. Obviously Prada's version is the one that everyone will be talking about (the craftsmanship is totally extraordinaire), however let’s not forget the fact that lots of designers showed gorgeous styles in a variety of silhouettes. On that note, we’re particularly head-over-heels about the lace frocks from Burberry Prorsum
, Stella McCartney, Givenchy, and Alexander McQueen. They’re prim, they’re sexy, they’re perfect. Of course, they’re also expensive, so we suggest starting your vintage store search now, or snap up Topshop’s
Vintage Lace Dress ($90).
Fall Florals
Maybe it’s the global warming or perhaps designers are just messing with seasonal tradition, either way, this fall you should be prepared to welcome an autumnal garden into your wardrobe. Spring’s pattern craze has streamlined a bit and now the focus will definitely (and somewhat unexpectedly) be on floral prints. We loved the retro vibe of the oversized posies at Thakoon
Chain Link
Dear readers, we would like to cordially invite you to join our chain gang. If you accept our offer, you may enjoy the some of the best fall accessories around, like the gold chain cascade of necklaces at Givenchy and Chanel’s long lambskin gloves with chain details. If you’re into this style but want something a little less intense, try the chain necklace from 3.1 Phillip Lim or Maison Martin Margiela’s Short Waterfall Necklace ($275). Also, we encourage you to explore your inner gypsy and wrap some thin chain belts around your hips for a Gucci runway effect.
Slouchy Slacks
Ultra slim jeans and black latex-ish leggings have been popular for ages now, and while the completely lean look is cool, we're personally digging the slouchy trouser. We like the wide-leg versions balanced with a feminine top, as seen at Alexander Wang and Proenza Schouler. If the full-leg slouch slack is too far from your beloved skinnies, you’ll probably prefer the excellent variation Isabel Marant offered for fall. They’re boyishly relaxed at the waist/thigh and taper tightly to the ankle for a tulip-style silhouette.
Power Shoulders
We're thrilled about the return of the strong shoulder as seen at Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, and Jean Paul Gaultier, to name a bunch. The look got kick-started in spring with the pagoda-style shoulders at YSL, but it's nice that we have so many more power shoulder options for fall. If you’re wary of looking too Baby Boom, just remember that now it’s a much more architectural shoulder then the bulky eighties version. Also, a slightly exaggerated shoulder looks particularly amazing with a slim or nipped in waist; it's a traditionally masculine look that actually can make one look very feminine!
Decorative Tights
Tights trends continue to evolve and this season they’re making more of statement than ever. You’ll continue to see lots of bright solids (red, in particular) but our favorites are the many styles of patterned tights. We’re swooning over the intricate black Lace Tights ($250) from the Chanel runway and Chloe’s beautiful Patterned Tights ($150). The latter will arrive in Chloe boutiques by early September and also will be available at Net-A-Porter. They are offered in four colors: spark (dark red), raspberry, bilberries (dark purple), and gray. The unique and varied tights shown at Anna Sui were also excellent and they’re already in stores! Check out the Swirling Rosettes tights ($30), Coptic Print tights ($22), and Abstract Waves tights ($22) at your closest Anna Sui boutique. If you don’t live by one, or can’t wait until the Chanel and Chloe versions arrive in stores, you can satisfy your cravings for fancy stockings by picking up some of Free People's Creeping Flowers Crochet Tights ($34) online today.
Thigh-High Boots
We’ll admit it: there is a part of us that is hesitant to call out fall’s over-the-knee boots as one of the big trends. Having lived through the nineties, we saw how people styled their thigh-high hooker boots and barely lived to tell about it (clearly this is not the look we’re talking about). However, there were so many exceptionally cool versions on the runways we just can’t ignore them. Gucci’s Devendra Boots ($1995) with tassels are mouth-wateringly good and we certainly wouldn’t turn down a pair of Lanvin’s Over-The-Knee Flat Boots ($1440) or the very Carine Roitfeldesque black suede Heaven Boots ($1350) by Jimmy Choo, which will be available next month.
Panda Eyes
Black lipstick was possibly the boldest beauty statement this season (check out Yves Saint Laurent, Giles, and Alice Roi for reference), but we prefer the dark glamour of the also popular panda eye. Our favorite versions came from Viktor & Rolf, Balenciaga, and Lanvin and looked dangerously rock’n’roll. While maquillage uber genius Pat McGrath used black cream eye shadow at Lanvin, we suspect most civilians will find this a bit too intense. Instead try another product McGrath uses and likes, Cover Girl’s Eye Enhancers in Dazzling Metallics. The blendable powder shadows will allow even those of us with very little technical skill to get an approximation of the style. More proficient ladies will like the powder/cream duo of Shu Uemura’s limited edition Instinct Fall Mode Makeup Duo Eye Shadow in Mystifier ($36).
Sexy Sixties Hair
We squealed with joy when we saw the amazing, sixties-inspired, sex kitten hairstyles on the fall runways. The big, bouncy, backcombed looks are thrillingly reminiscent of Raquel Welch in One Million Years B.C. or Veruschka on the cover of Life in the summer of 1967. The wildest version of this style was created by Orlando Pita for Dior, but we also love the modified, more minimal version Guido Palau gave the models at Alberta Ferretti. Also don’t miss the teased ponytail styles at Wunderkind and the full-and-natural versions at DKNY and Just Cavalli—all are very inspiring!
Lace LBDs
The little black dress will always be a constant in our wardrobes, but for fall we want to pick up a new version in black lace. Obviously Prada's version is the one that everyone will be talking about (the craftsmanship is totally extraordinaire), however let’s not forget the fact that lots of designers showed gorgeous styles in a variety of silhouettes. On that note, we’re particularly head-over-heels about the lace frocks from Burberry Prorsum
I am waaaaaaaaaaaaay down with the 60s hair and panda eyes, but the thigh high boots and "power shoulders" seem horrid.
Posted by: jodi | 2008-07-25 14:56:17
Slouching slacks are perfect actually found a mens pair in my size and wore them to a party...wonderful chic look that doesn't give off to much.
Posted by: Sarita | 2008-07-21 15:54:09
like the insight, and I agree - bring back WWWD TV please!
Posted by: hj | 2008-07-19 16:58:46
I love everything (especially the thigh high boots-Very Very Sexy!)except the panda eyes. Should we be encouraging that look?! Visit my blog: www.BirdieBlueSkies.blogspot.com
Posted by: BlueSkies | 2008-07-14 23:53:18
have you checked your closet lately?? I only wish I had a closet that big... all I have is floors and couch arms. I love the mixed decades here...just facinating and extremely anxious to wear what I already have or will have soon for my winter threads.
Posted by: aninie | 2008-07-14 21:58:51
I love the winter floral idea, i love to pair the floral dresses with opague tights and cute boots, the tights and power shoulders are a definite no. i mean, come on ppl, do we really need the shoulder pads to come back in our lives? i think not. i love the slouchy slacks look, the chains, and the thigh high boots!! The boots are fabulous!
Posted by: kashmere | 2008-07-14 18:47:25
Eek tights and eyes. Otherwise, I love. Oh, and whatever happened to Who What Wear TV? Plus I miss the old layout.
Posted by: Maria | 2008-07-13 20:10:31
I adore the the decorative tights, they can add a bit of flavour to a simple outfit and make it pop. I also like the Panda eyes, but I don't know how well the Panda eyes would translate into the real world.
Posted by: N | 2008-07-13 02:29:13
love love love the panda eyes and sexy sixties hair. also the thigh-high boots ... sexy. www.barefoottess.wordpress.com
Posted by: tess | 2008-07-12 15:55:12
www.uber.com/jessicafoster
Posted by: jessica | 2008-07-12 01:18:37
Not into the power shoulders; unsure about those tights. I'd be into toning down the panda eyes so they're more wearable off the catwalk. Love the slouchy slacks! Not sure I could prance around in thigh-high, stiletto-heeled boots without being arrested here, but I'd love a pair of flat riding boots the same length.
Posted by: Dell | 2008-07-11 23:35:09
ffffinallly some fffffashion. yes.
Posted by: sarah | 2008-07-11 23:27:39
THE BEST WWWD POST EVER!!!!! sooo right on.i cant wait to put my millions of tights, and floral and lace dresses to use! fashioninsiderguide.com
Posted by: nathalia | 2008-07-11 22:23:53
I am most definitely stocking up on fancy tights and florals.
Posted by: Amy Jean | 2008-07-11 21:58:50
Fashion always comes and goes. Shoulder pads are back, sixties are back, tights with ladders (accept it, that's what they actually are), slutty thigh high boots. All back in couture fashion. I would apply most of these trends, however, I hate the panda eyes. I'm most in love with the winter florals however. I think they're ao wearable.
Posted by: badhairday | 2008-07-11 20:57:19
How cool! I'm actually into many of these things nowadays :) *Slouchy slacks: YES!! I've been into like body-con for the last year, thought it was the new me, but eventually i got tired of it.. *Power shoulders: OH YEAH! I'm inspired by Miami Vice nowadays, and think it's awesome! *Decorative tights: YEA! I've been wearing non-decorative ones for the last year... *60s hair: Love the 60s :) But i don't have a good routine on fixing my hair, though.. *Thigh-high boots are nice, but i think i'll go for slouchy ankle boots or smth. The other things are most likely not for me! (My new fashion BLOG: http://fashionlaunch.blogspot.com) The other things are most likely not for me!
Posted by: fashionlauncher | 2008-07-11 19:23:44
I love all those trends, except for the power shoulder; and I wish you could get sexy sixties hair without having to backcomb your hair...I'll have to stick to the natural version. Great post, wwwd.
Posted by: Caitlin | 2008-07-11 19:19:52
yay for lace, chain links, and slouchy trousers! check out my blog at http://omowrites.blogspot.comTHANKS!
Posted by: Samantha | 2008-07-11 17:21:35
Go Slouchy Slacks! Love that Racoon look, its tempting to try now, but Im certain it'd melt off my face by the end of the day! check my blog: http://luvvy-luvvy.blogspot.com/
Posted by: LuVvy | 2008-07-11 17:01:31
I love slouchy slacks, but the tulip shape will make anyone look horrible, and pair it with statement shoulders and you've channeled back to 1985! Yikes! Good thing people are doing florals in fashion because with the dwindling bee population we might have a problem growing our own, but we sure won't have a problem wearing them, will we? Great post!
Posted by: Brie | 2008-07-11 15:45:45
This is the best WWWD post I've seen in a while! Very nice inspirations!
Posted by: nicole | 2008-07-11 15:36:17
I love the Panda eyes and florals for fall, how fun. (my *fashion* blog) http://fashionchalet.blogspot.com
Posted by: Fashion Chalet | 2008-07-11 14:07:33
oooh I am loving the Shu Uemura eye duo! I got the Cover Girl Dazzling Metallics trio a few weeks ago. I'm really looking forward to all of these trends. Balmain and Gucci are my absolute favorite collections for fall. God they were both just sooo amazing!
Posted by: bella vita | 2008-07-11 13:44:36
Dude, the panda eyes totally reminds me of my favorite blogger ever ever LULU! http://www.chictopia.com/user/blog/lulu I love you Lulu!
Posted by: gingersnap | 2008-07-11 13:23:38
I love the trends for patterned tights and the slouchy pants! This post also gives me inspiration on how to carry my floral dress from spring into a/w, ty wwwd :)
Posted by: Amy | 2008-07-11 12:57:58
Yay!!!!!!!! What an amazing post! I'm looking forward to fall!
Posted by: Maia | 2008-07-11 12:52:25
yes! i've been waiting for you guys to do this post.
Posted by: Autumn Murphy | 2008-07-11 11:40:18
gotta love fall...best by far
Posted by: shelby | 2008-07-11 10:36:02
yay i'm moving to nyc next weekend and i am so excited to finally start being able to enjoy fall fashion! (i've been living in florida for the past 7 years, so we got like 2 days a yr to wear tights) http://kittenfarts.blogspot.com
Posted by: rawlyn | 2008-07-11 10:19:57
Lovin the slouchy slacks. Check out Karla's Closet. She's tiny and pulls the look off. Like the big hair, too. This post looks like it was just copied from the June issue of Harper's Bazaar, though.
Posted by: Llew | 2008-07-11 08:00:55
yay for fall, it's by far my favorite season for fashion! great post to kick off the weekend!
Posted by: th.dany | 2008-07-11 07:44:06
the slouchy slacks are adorable, i've been seeing them around lately, but im 5'4 and 110 pounds, im not sure how to wear them without looking awkward. thank god for patterned tights whil i figure it out!
Posted by: eligh | 2008-07-11 05:53:06
I am from Australia and it's winter over here..so I'm totally into the floral frocks with stockings, coats and scarfs already....it works, even if it is wrong..Love this post..ta
Posted by: g says | 2008-07-11 03:54:33
haha i think all of us youngsters arent so thrilled about power shoulders! but thigh highs por vida!
Posted by: debbie ann | 2008-07-11 03:22:25
Love love love this post!!
Posted by: Kelly | 2008-07-11 03:16:03
Where´s the wwwTv, miss that, love the trends not so happy about power shoulders
Posted by: ElvS | 2008-07-11 00:52:13
thank goodness for slouchy slacks... i'm tired of the skinny jeans!
Posted by: fashionlov3r | 2008-07-11 00:37:14
i am in love with all these looks.. but im not sure about the powershoulder and panda eyes are my favorite look i use black smokey eyes all the time! JUST ADORE SMOKEYY EFFECT :) GOOD JOB WWWD.
Posted by: Saree Elias | 2008-07-11 00:06:18