Retro
70s Flashback for Fall
Sabah Karimi
Buckling down with the ‘70s flashback this year, designers around the globe are eager to offer us ruffled accents, boisterous prints, and a smattering of metallic babydolls and platforms to pull together a chic revival on the runway. While the sexy minidresses and belted coats bring us a fresh wave of knits this Fall, there’s still room for tunic tops and oversized accessories to make this season another decade to remember.
Oversize Knit Parade
Though fashion experts were ready to call it the end of flowy tops and oversized ensembles after Summer ’07, the revival is back in action with a new spin on sweater dresses, cardigans, and belted coat. Sweater dresses accessorized with oversized scarves and mockneck collars are a fresh take on last year’s emphasis on cowel and v-neck cuts. Flow, flair and extra material have moved downward instead, with flared and pleated topped with a fitted corset belt and ruffled blouse. At the office or just playing dress-up, the masculine and feminine balancing act comes into play with tuxedo-style dressing, ruffled accents, and straight-as-a board silhouettes.
Grey Days Ahead
Fall’s ‘new black’ is no longer green (or pink), as grey and pewter lead the way in almost every knit cardigan, leather accessory, and silk suit ensemble. It’s also the season of transformation and simple conversions; the oversized grey cardigan is a minidress, the silver clutch transforms into a handbag, and the long tunic sweater is paired with leggings and wedges for a ‘70s flashback of its own.
Proportion and Balance
Stella McCartney’s grey and white collections on the runway offer just one example of the oversized proportion at play. Cozy grey wraps, trapeze capes, and petticoat dresses paired with double breasted coats offer a line of sporty chic. For coats with a more formal touch, Burberry unveils a fresh collection of non-plaid wool coats with military accents and slim silhouettes; not the norm for the traditionally tartan designer, and an easy match for Fall’s masculine-inspired outfits. Belted coats lead the way with 5”+ wide belts in glossy patent leather and metallic hues. No longer fit for the hip hugging crowd, the belts are worn above the waist to bring out an hourglass silhouette on any tunic top, dress, or suit.
Brit-Inspired Mod
High waisted skirts are another tribute to epic proportions from the ‘70s, an opportunity to emphasize the hourglass figure with elegant pencil skirts and body-cinching styles. Retro inspiration from Marc Jacobs sheds some light on the power of plaid and Brit-inspired looks. The mod-ish look easily comes together with high waisted skirts, bows and ruffle accents, and printed scarves worn around the neck. The days of scarf-as-belt are no more; with the emphasis on super skinny or extra-wide accents around the waist, there’s simply no room for ribbon accents and accessories.
Retro Minidresses
The retro print minidress affords us an opportunity to enjoy a blast from the past, with Diane von Furstenberg wrap dresses in eccentric colors and designs. The year calls for one-piece ensembles—hold the layers—with simple pairings of minidresses with leggings and the wrap dress paired with ballet flats or metallic peep-toe pumps. Roberto Cavalli sizes up python prints and animal print sheath dresses and skirts, bringing back the exotic skins of last year with a fresh spin.
The Daily
Fashion Rocks Performers Announced
The Conde Nast extravaganza that is Fashion Rocks is returning again for another season. Normally taking place during New York Fashion week, Fashion Rocks melds the entertainment industry with the spectacle behind the Spring
July 23, 2008
Gwen Stefani Designs for Oz
Gwen Stefani has done almost everything that can be done. She's been the front person for a major rock group, she's had major hits as a solo artist, she's played the role of actress all while designing a popular fashion line.
July 22, 2008
Model Ben Grimes Enters the World of Design
One of the former faces of the Burberry brand is looking to branch out on her own and create a line. Ben Grimes is taking her love of fashion to the runway, only this time she won't walk in a show, her collection...
July 21, 2008
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Miami Swim Makes a Splash
Mercedes-Benz is returning to Miami to heat up summer with Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim. July 17th to July 21st, the historic Raleigh Hotel will host 15 of the hottest swimwear designers including Red Carter, Poko Pano...
July 18, 2008
Marilyn Monroe's Fashion Line from the Grave
Bradford Licensing, a company known to revive brands using dead celebrity names has taken their passion for Marilyn Monroe and transformed it into a ready to wear line. The collection will feature the iconic actress'...
July 17, 2008
see all daily headlines >>
