While you may be looking forward to breaking out your shorts and swimsuits for summer the fashion world is already moving on and setting its sights on the crisp air of autumn. This past week Feb. 10 to 17 top designers revealed their Fall 2011 collections at Fashion Week in New York.
Fans of the TV show “Project Runway” might be pleased to find that season four winner Christian Siriano showed a collection alongside established names in the fashion industry. The designer known for his flair for the avant garde showed a surprisingly wearable collection that contrasted gathered and draped chiffon with structured pieces. Siriano was not alone in his use of chiffon; sheer fabric appeared in several collections over the course of the week.
By the fourth day of Fashion Week a pattern began to emerge deciding the trends for this coming fall.
Bold geometric patterns were hot on the runway this week appearing in collections by Cynthia Rowley Diane von Furstenberg and Jill Stuart.
While coats a staple for any fall collection made their expected appearance on the runway they were not the only outerwear found. Surprisingly enough models strutted down the runway wearing capes in several fashion shows including those by designers such as DKNY and BCBG Max Azria among numerous others. In case these “capes” conjure up images of Superman be assured that walking around in superhero costumes have not yet become the height of fashion. Rather these capes are typically made of wool and vary in length from torso to thigh much like your average coat. While this is a somewhat unusual trend consumers may warm up to it considering these capes are quite like coats aside from the fact that they lack sleeves.
Colors to watch for in the fall range from the always classic black and white to more bold choices. Orange just may be the new “in” color for this coming season which should prove convenient for Pepperdine students outfitted in their finest display of school spirit. Royal blue coincidentally was also a favorite among designers this week assuring that you will be in style whenever you go to a sports game whether you decide on your orange or blue Pepperdine gear. As far as other colors go apple-red consistently made an appearance on the runway as well.
Finally fur made its way to the catwalk in several incarnations — coats scarves trims and vests. While this trend is certain to keep you warm it might create a conflict if you consider yourself an animal lover. For a more animal — and wallet — friendly option go faux when Fashion Week’s trends hit shelves this fall.
While it is difficult to tell now which new trends will pass the ultimate consumer test you can expect to see bold patterns capes Pepperdine colors and fur when you set foot in your favorite store come fall.