Metallica
Shakespeare once said “All that glitters is not gold”, and in the case of this seasons metallic trend it could be silver, pewter, copper or variations of colour luxe! Metallic features everywhere and is a trend that filtered enthusiastically down to all markets. From being part of a fabric composition to being effectively dyed or painted on- there was metallic everything. However I do think that going down from high market to middle to mass the tackiness did increase.
That 70's show
Glamorous chic and very ladylike, the A/W 2011’s take on the 70’s incorporates the demure pussy bow blouse. From large Bows to more discreet the important factor here is fabric. Soft and flowing fabrics make the bow less like Minnie mouse and more sophisticated. Worn tied or left loose and open, it is a very versatile dressy look and very feminine. This look follows through in all markets very well and is a big trend this year.
Suit Yourself
Oversized jackets, minimal shopping and a Wall Street vibe were a part of A/W 2011 cross dressing theme. This is a theme which maximises femininity by manning it down as opposed to making women look plain butch. An elegant relaxed trend, the look looks effortless when done in the high-end market but I feel it has been toned down considerably as it filters down to the mass market in an effort I presume to appeal to a broader market and make it more commercial. Beautiful luxurious fabrics in the high end market were key. And while wools and wool blends were still used in the mass market, the feminine shaping diluted this look a little too much.
Fur Trade?
Native indigenous peoples in freezing climates have always worn fur. They do it for survival. We lust after fur as a must have fashion accessory, from real to faux fur it’s everywhere for A/W 2011. Full garments, trimmings and accessories. A very tactile material-fur implies opulence, glamour and excess. The selection of fur available this A/W 2011; both faux and real, is greatly diverse in its texture, colour and form. The best products usually costing more money, but is it a guilty pleasure? Fur evokes very strong views from most people. Furriers claim that the manufacture of polyester and nylon copies of the ‘real thing’ involves chemicals that pollute the environment – Real fur being natural and biodegradable and therefore more ethical. PETA campaigners and members claim “they would rather go naked than wear fur”. Is there a difference in wearing real fur from animals killed solely for their skin or fur that is a by-product of the food industry?
The Swinging Sixties
The iconic image of Twiggy wearing a shift dress back in the 60’s has stood the test of time and is resurrected this A/W 2011. Colour blocking or monochromes were most popular within this theme and detailing is kept to a minimum. Fabric type varied widely although when the trend channelled down into mass market I saw an increase in the man-made fabrics, but the question could be asked, does polyester make the garment cheaper? Or does it simply make it even more retro? As our parents/grandparents in the 60’s experimented the wash and wear revolution, with more and more garments made from polyester, they are wrinkle free, durable and colour resistant.
All About the Pattern
It wouldn’t be winter without a Knit or two and knitwear is everywhere. But this year sees a return to a very retro theme in the patterned jacquard type knit, a Missoni inspired look being a strong feature. There are beautiful knits available across all markets although the finer and more delicate wools are more prevalent in the high end market. Here quality of fabric is key and makes these pieces good investment buys. Within knit, I think you get what you pay for and a good cashmere merino or alpaca wool would keep you warm this winter.
