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You've probably been hearing about it all week-- fashion being described as a circus, or in some articles the two being used interchangeably. Sure, we needed someone to bring this conversation [of the concrete catwalk and all the blatant "peacocking"] to the forefront, so thank you Suzy Menkes for starting that conversation, but the praise is and should be directed toward Leandra for carrying on the conversation with her unbiased and relevant opinions about Menkes' perception of bloggers, and shining a brighter light on the ever-evolving fashion industry. But, this is a subject that will probably need further dissection in its very own post because my intent was to discuss the circus on the catwalk at the Piers, Milk Studios, Lincoln Center, High Beam, and so on. I know, fashion month is well on its way already, and the end of LFW yesterday and the commencement of Milan today are an indication that I'm a bit behind on my blog posts, but the truth is I'm pretty back-blogged and you'll see more post slowly trickle in.
After all, fashion month is a circus. Many performers, live audience, and so many acts to follow. I always find the inundation of fashion week posts during the actual proceedings to be overwhelming any way. So I took the liberty of narrowing down some of my favorite trends on the runway into, yes, another collage of trends to try now. Easily some classics that can last you into spring and (recycled) into the following season. From bold silhouettes to a varying color spectrum... here goes.
Bold shoulders. Sure, this silhouette may get in the way on the subway, but can't help but wonder, are these satellite shoulders the new peplum? Looks like volume is moving up, literally. Sure these top-heavy looks from (L-R) Rag & Bone, Rebecca Minkoff, Jill Stuart, Alexander Wang, and Lacoste will warrant mixed reviews, and comments that begin with "why would anyone want to..." but you have to admit that there's something about looking like you just stepped out in a space suit that makes you want to try this in a top or dress form, no?
Continuing on with a discussion about silhouettes, how about capes? I'll have to admit that my Aussie girl Marg wore it best off the runway, but how about a closer look on the runway? Floor-length at Derek Lam and Yigal Azrouel, a bit subtler (but not so subtle) with neoprene and Gumbi-green at Tibi (center), and then of course the more streamlined interpretations at Victoria Beckham and Donna Karen.
Over the knee. The centerfold obviously has to go to the shoes. Sky-high heels are a given during fashion week, but Autumn/Winter shows always give new meaning to seasonal footwear -- (L to R) Classic knee-length at Theyskens Theory, pointed stiletto pump boots at BCBG Max Azria, over-the-knee in an army of looks at Phillip Lim, buckled up high in military chic at Prabal Gurung, and let's talk about Altuzarra -- were they boots? or just white leather stockings with a sole? Well either way, over-the knee boots are the pant replacement.
And since we've covered the topic of accessorizing our soles, it's only fair to give some attention to the tops of our heads. This seasons started off with a pleasant mix of high and low at BCBG Max Azria where beanies were paired with luxe furs and intricate leather pieces. Then the week progressed where hats were a mainstay for some shows like Timo Weiland's sporty riding hats, and Ruffian toppers (that kind of look like a soup dumpling which make them even better), while Tommy Hilfigher mixed up his proverbial prep with some more understated beanies, and Oscar de la Renta added cloche hats to the blend of organza and monochromatic skirt suits.
Last but not least, color. You either use it or you don't, and this season is seems collections were occasionally dabbling in it. Clean blacks and whites swept the runways and were splashed with deep reds, greens, and in Karen Walker's case the most beautiful shades of tangerine. L to R: Zero + Maria, Michael Kors, Karen Walker, Proenza, Tibi.