AW10: 10 Key Pieces

In our Top 5 Key Themes for Autumn-Winter 2010 post, we highlighted the fact that this season’s trends are nothing if not diverse, which, on a positive note, means that there’s bound to be something that matches your taste!

I strongly advise my clients not to buy every trend that hits the high street this season. Embrace the fashion trends by incorporating one or two key pieces that will have you looking up to date, without screaming ‘fashion victim’.

All the items featured in this post are from designer website, Net à Porter.

AW10: KEY WARDROBE LOOKS

Capes: Not just the preserve of cartoon superheros! Capes are everywhere this season, and are a fabulous alternative to a Winter coat. Example: Matthew Williamson Poncho (€923.52):

Flying Jackets: Aviation fashion from the 50s is very much in season right now, and the lynchpin of this look is the flying jacket. These cozy jackets are have a leather exterior and a shearling interior. I’m guessing that they will be a huge hit in our not-so-temperate Irish climate! Example: Helmut Lang Shearling Jacket (€1,000):

Skirts: Sticking with the 50s theme, full and flared skirts from the dance-hall days of yore are hugely popular this season. Elsewhere, tulip, peplum, wrap-around, cross-over, A-line, gathered, pleated and straight-styles – of every length – are also very popular. Example: Burbury Crossover Skirt (€395):

“City” Maxi-Dresses: Maxi dresses were everywhere this Summer and this popular trend is carrying forward into the Winter. You’ll notice that this season’s maxi dresses have evolved into a more clean and chic style (dubbed “city style”) and are more structured than their bohemian predecessors. If you’re unsure as to what style suits your shape best, why not check out Style By Caroline’s Guide for ‘Dressing to the Maxi’. Example: Rick Owens Lillies Wool-Jersey Maxi-Dress (€370):

Leather Leggings: I’m blaming Elle McPhearson of Britain’s Next Top Model Season 6 for bringing this look back into fashion. Not for the faint-hearted, this look can be unforgiving not to mind hot to wear. Nonetheless, if you’re determined to try it, there will be plenty of options on the high street soon. Example: Helmut Lang Leather Leggings (€855):

Blouses: Romance is alive and well, with this season demonstrating a huge amount of love for feminine blouses. If you’re slim on top, then go for broke on embellishments such as frills, bows, colours and patterns. Stick to plain styles if you’re bigger or bustier on top. Example: A.P.C Polkadot silk blouse €190:

Woolly Jumper: This season designers are enjoying a tryst with Alpine influences, in particular knitted jumpers. Cable knit is particularly popular. Example: Michael Kors Mohair & Wool-Blend Sweater Dress (€838.45):

Footwear: Boots dominate this season’s footwear trends; shoe boots, fur and fur-lined boots, over-the-knee boot and lace-up boots amongst most popular styles. Wedge styles (boots and shoes) continue their reign of popularity, but this season it’s all about architectural styles e.g. curves, stacked heels and cutouts. Elsewhere, the platforms and heels are getting higher this season, but those who hate high heels will be pleased to see that kitten heels and chunky heels are also making a comeback. Example: Roberto Cavalli Fur-lined Boots (€1,245.53):

Handbags: Continuing with the retro theme, you’ll notice that ‘granny bags’ are very popular this season – look out for the trademark boxy shape, short handles and envelope fastening. Popular fabrics include; crocodile skin, tweed, fur, brocade and leather. Example: Phillip Lim Convertible Iridescent Leather Bag (€431.38):

Jewellery: Again, older styles are popular when it comes to jewellery e.g. chunky styles, gold (including rose gold), brooches, chandelier earrings, knuckle-duster rings, stacked rings etc. Example: Michael Kors Rose Gold-Plated Chronograph Watch (€315.94):

Hope you enjoyed this quick overview of the fashion trends for this season. I certainly enjoyed putting it together! As mentioned at the beginning of this post, all items featured are designer garments from Net à Porter; however, if they are a little beyone your budget – as they are mine – don’t worry, you’ll see plenty of High Street versions hitting your local stores from this month onwards.

In the meantime, I’m going to daydream that I can afford the above!

Yours in style,
Caroline

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