This fall and winter, the runway has given us plenty of hints on how to look classic and sexy, with one of the most romantic runway showings that the world has seen in years. This winter is about nostalgia, with plenty of 1960s Mod throwbacks complemented by a healthy dose of androgyny. In addition to wide hats and plenty of faux fur, you’ll also see oversized coats and multiple textures that will make you long for a cold night, just so you can show off how hot you look. The winter fashion trends are sure to keep any wardrobe sizzling even when it’s cold outside. After scouring the fashion weeks in Milan, London, New York and Paris, here are a few unforgettable trends for the Fall and Winter 2011/2012 season:
1. Texture is king. Gucci shows us beautifully how a variety of texture takes precedence over color this fall and winter. If your wardrobe has an array of classic basics, it’s time to branch out and start adding in textures you may not wear very much. Make felt sizzle with an accessory or shirt that has a different weight and feel. On the runway, everything from velvet to silk to faux fur helped create dynamic looks that had a lot of “pop.” Now is the time to add feathers and felt to your collection, and break away from leather and wool.
2. Got wine? Although this fall and winter showed plenty of color, a “wine palette” of burgundies, dark reds, and near-black purples are some of the most widespread trends. These color tones can complement fall and winter basics like black, taupe, tan, dark brown and a variety of shades of gray. See inspiration by Elene Cassis and Gucci.
3. Plenty of Print. The runway was flooded with a variety of interesting prints, from black and white animal prints to polka dots. Although graphic prints made an appearance on the runway, it was simple, untextured and flattering prints that won overall. The more classic a print, the better it will blend. Looking for some print-spiration? Look no farther than Jason Wu and Charlotte Taylor. Taylor’s geometric designs and colors still have plenty of Mod 1960s throwback, which is a major trend right now, but the subtle designs — which include lobsters and robots— are incredibly fresh.
4. Show Me the Shimmer. Everything from T-shirts to jeggings pops with some shimmer this winter season. Pick a pair of shiny black leggings, a shimmery gray T-shirt. A shine that’s consistent across the whole piece, like sleek black pleather boots, or a shimmer built into a skirt, like silver threaded through wool, add a special element that makes you feel like you’re wearing a winter wonderland. I love Marc Jacobs who rocks the look this season on the runway!
5. Menswear for Women. From blazers to pieces with a military twist, this trend shows up with oversized coats inspired by tuxedos or uniforms, and a wave of prominent collars and even ties for women. These oversized coats are paired well with midi- and maxi-length skirts in neutral colors, and still have a feminine feel when paired with sheer black or silk details. Check out Jason Wu or Versace for inspiration.
6. Sheer black. Whether it’s cuffs, sleeves or skirts, there’s plenty of sheer black details to be found this fall and winter. Picking a piece with a bit of see-through will add some heat to your winter wardrobe. This detail is both feminine and flattering, and blends well with the heavy textures and wine colors also trending on the runway.
7. Color that Pops! Although there were plenty of wine and berry tones on the runway this season, don’t neglect other pops of color that can really liven up a neutral outfit. There were plenty of sightings of pale pink handbags, lavender silk scarves, or dark blue feather earrings. Mustard yellow and orange also took on new meaning when paired with dark browns and chocolate tones. Designers also boldly mixed colors, pairing lavender pieces with a wine-red skirt over neutral layers. I’m in love with the vibrant Mod 60′s look by Alberta Ferrari!
8. Midi- and Maxi-length Skirts. All hail the pencil. Even though this winter’s trends hinge upon a few androgynous details (like oversized coats), you can complement any look, color or texture with a flattering skirt. Leave the mini-skirts and hot-pants for last summer. This winter, the right length is just above the knee, or even floor-length if you’re bold enough. These flattering skirts should be one color and one texture, but don’t neglect the right skirt if it has a bit of shimmer.
9. Hats are So Hot. This year might as well be known as the Year of the Hats, from spring trends thanks to the royal wedding, all the way through the summer. This winter, hats are still a hot look. This winter saw less beanies, and a revival of classic wide-brimmed felt hats and fedoras. Look for hats in mauve, burgundy or tan, with great details like a strip of silk for a hat band, or a colorful feather.
10. The Return of the Collar. They might not be flipped up on a polo, but collars this season still pop. Across the world, trends showed a boom of collars that could have been taken direct from a man’s jacket or a classic Oxford, and slapped onto garments where traditionally they wouldn’t be needed. The result is a look hotter, and more flattering, than any turtleneck or cowlneck sweater. Look for shirts and coats that showcase collars in different patterns or textures from the rest of the material, whether it’s velvet, faux fur, or silk.
