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Drama reigns in Fall/Winter fashion

Designers presented unexpected and dramatic looks that were not for the faint of heart for Fall/Winter 2010. Yet, mixed in with show stopping pieces were some tailored classics that will be relevant for years to come and that belong in every woman's wardrobe.

With notable exceptions, the collections were full of strong neutrals such as black and grey. Colors were bright and bold, often used as an added shot of interest to a clean sculptured look or to draw attention to a simple silhouette. Solid colors also ruled the day, with visual interest coming from the interplay of fabrics and textures. It was not uncommon to see sheer organza mixed with flat wool and glossy leather to create an anything but boring monochromatic look.

While many designers are not taking risks with color, they are taking risks with proportions. Slim skirts combined with billowing tops, slim tailored jackets over flowing trousers, long jackets paired with shorter skirts, and tall boots with minis were seen across the spectrum, creating a fresh and individual feel. Designers allowed women to flatter their best features by finding the proportion that best suits them.

Accessories were kept to a minimum; letting pleats, asymmetrical hems, sleek tailoring, and other sculptured details take center stage. Simple pulled back hairstyles and classic, yet bold, makeup finished the look.

When shopping, look for solid colored garments that are tailored and fit well. Don't be afraid to mix and match items from different suits or outfits in the same color to create a unified, yet interesting, look. Find a simple way to bring a bit of a favorite bold color into the look, like a bright collar on a jacket or a colorful cami or tee peeking out. Put free flowing pieces together with structured pieces with an eye to highlighting your best feature, whether it is your waist, legs, bustline, or shoulders. Choose only one area to highlight at a time. Keep hair and makeup simple- a slick pony or chignon with a clean eye and strong lip is the perfect foil for this look. Leave your bold statement jewelry and bags at home; these clothes don't need the distraction.

Have fun with fashion this season and be the star of the show.

The coming fashion trends for autumn and winter 2009

Colors

The usual earth tones of the season have fallen by the wayside this year. Fashion trends for autumn 2009 will see both men and women wearing all-over bright colors and jewel tones across the spectrum. Need some time to adjust to all the color in fall clothing this year? Mix your reds, pinks and purples with subtler autumn rusts, yellows and grays.

Fabrics

The autumn 2009 fashion trends seen so far indicate that leather and wool (not surprisingly) will be popular this fall, as will metallic fabrics and silks. 1980s details will still be popular this autumn, but with a few updates. Shoulder pads are back, but jackets will be slimmer-fitting. One-shouldered and unseasonably spring-like dresses will also be trendy.

Jackets

Fashion trends for autumn 2009 point to a return in staple wardrobe pieces, and the fall jacket is no exception. Classic leather, hound's-tooth, and denim jackets are proving they’re around to stay, at least for another year. Women can expect to see some textured vests as a warm fall day alternative to the jacket. Men’s jacket trends for fall 2008 will take inspiration from military wear.

Hair

For the ladies, autumn 2009 fashion trends will combine old styles with contemporary updates. Think buns and French twists that are a little messy, big, or parted differently. Big hair is making a comeback, but with a difference. Volume is good as long as it is controlled volume, so pull that hair away from your face.

Men’s fashion trends for fall 2009 will also be throwbacks with a twist. Think masculine fringe bangs, side parts that veer a little further than one might expect, or old-fashioned slicked back styles with some extra length or volume.

Shoes

Stilettos and other extremely high heeled shoes will be making a comeback. Forget comfort and think style, because even moccasin-style boots will be coming equipped with four-inch heels. Boots will continue to be hot, but with ankle booties and over-the-knee boots replacing last year’s more practical mid-rise boots. This fall, men’s shoes should continue to veer toward dressy blacks and browns, but expect to see lots of laces.

Purses

Ladies, get ready for shiny, metallic purses for autumn 2009. Fashion trends are also pointing to charcoal gray as a popular color for handbags, and expect to see lots of zipper and stud detailing.

Fashion Follows Economic Trends
In the fashion industry, the economy affects hemlines. A robust economy sees lots more fabric in collections than in a weaker economy. Fashion trends for Summer 2009 are bound to follow the economic trends with shorter hemlines, more casual clothes and an unconscious desire for comfort that will be reflected in designer collections.

Fashion Trends For Summer 2009
Pastels had an early edge at the fashion gate. Pastels usually reign supreme later in spring. This is a good indication pastels will continue to be trends in summer. Delicate spring pinks will deepen to strawberry pinks, sunny lemon and delicate coral. Spring green may turn up as vivid lime. While pale lavenders stretch into broader color zones of mauve and deeper purple. These will be paired with whites, creme colors and turquoise that liven the psyche and distract away from the monotony of economic austerity.

Sky High Heels vs. Brightly Colored Flats and Pumps
Sky-high heels of the past will inevitably be replaced in most cases by comfortable flats, sandals and perhaps even, sophisticated and timeless red or black patent Spectator pumps. Shoes are likely to be worn in colorful hues to match a blouse, jacket or slacks. This is an eye-catching effect. For men, the look will no doubt err on the side of economic influence as well with lots of pre-Great Depression Gatsby style jackets and trousers in lightweight summer fabrics. For the beach, it may well be a case of "Wear and Go". One fabric sure to be popular is cotton. It's comfortable in high temperatures without compromising style. Patterns in fabrics will vary from pastel plaids to bright red, navy and possibly even a return to summer-weight pinstripe. Patterns in shoes, like polka dots and leopard may also become the domain of the fashionably daring in Summer 2009.

Daring To Move On
The mindset at present is to move away from the constant drumbeat of the media regarding the economy. This may become the "Summer of Self-Content" where fashionistas break away from the same old, same old and choose fabrics and apparel that focus on their own levels of contentment.

Spring is closing in on us quickly, so it's time to put away those Winter clothes and shop for the hottest fashion trends of Spring 2009. So what's popular this year? You'll be surprised to know that jumpsuits are back, as well as exotic colors and prints, vests, and even sequins. Sportswear is also the new daywear - hoodies and pants provide a great casual look. Fashion trends this Spring are even consumer friendly for the economic downturn.

Jumpsuits aren't on everyone's shopping list, but if they're on yours, go for one that's loose and slouchy. Not only will it be comfortable, it will look very chic. The hottest length this season? Ankle cropped. Jumpsuits were heavily featured in New York and London fashion runway shows.

Spring is always associated with bright, mood-lifting colors. This Spring is no different. Polka dot and flowery prints are back! Bold colors are a great compliment to any wardrobe since you don't have to go designer for every outfit. Pairing inexpensive bold earrings to compliment an outfit will do just fine. Animal prints and geometric shapes are also in this Spring.

Vests have morphed from furry-hooded, feather-filled Winter jackets to Spring and Summer jackets. Vests this season will be styled either long-length or cropped. Match your vest with a skirt or some pants from Marc Jacobs and be instantly relaxed and chic.

Who can't forget sequins? Sequins have long adorned tops, bottoms, and accessories alike. Sequins are a great accessory that will make anyone stand out, but don't go sequin overboard. Keep it simple. This Spring, sequins will again sparkle on top of jackets, pants, and even glamourous gowns.

Sportswear is great daywear this season. Michael Kors introduced a line that is both gym and home chic.

Not everyone can afford designer apparel and merchandise this season, so designers responded and created affordable, yet still fashionable, products for consumers. This season's recession style is easy and simple. Match a loose-fitting blazer with ankle cropped pants for a trendy and inexpensive look. Keep outfits plain but match them with bold accessories to make you stand out.

This Spring, many fashion accessories and apparel are inexpensive yet still trendy. Adorn your coat hangers with bright colors, jumpsuits, vests, apparel with flashy sequins, and sportswear. Not only will fashion be affordable this Spring, consumers be very comfortable and stylish.