September 2002
Style scene -
Lindsey Samuelsohn
You would have to scour the masses of fashion magazines on a daily basis to keep up with the ever-changing trends in fashion. As most of us actually have jobs that prevent us from being perpetually up-to-date, we have taken it upon ourselves to provide you with fall's trends right from the runway. There's a lot to remember, so you might want to take notes…if you can find the time, that is.
Shaping up for Fall
Topping it Off
We've Got You Covered
All's Fair in Love and War
Velvet Underground
Give 'em the Boot
What's your Bag?
Black is Back
Period Pieces
GOTHam City
Tales from the Catwalk
Fall is all about a sexy silhouette. Slim pencil skirts and tailored jackets and pants accentuate a woman's curves while maintaining classic style. Pleats and ruffles are also a predominant force this season for those who feel the need to spice up the more exacting and conservative fall shapes that have taken over the runways.
As we see skirts and pants get slimmer this season, tops have begun to loosen up. Necklines plunged at Narciso Rodriguez and shoulders were bared at Gucci. Even Chanel paired pencil skirts with fuller tops to create what has been called the new shape of the season.
Something new this season is the abundance of jackets and coats that were struttin' their stuff on the fall catwalks. Whether it was Prada's fur accentuated parka, Michael Kors' motorcycle jacket and quilted leather jackets or Ralph Lauren's long trenches, this is one trend worth adopting. Us Chicagoans can never have too many coats!
When it came to themes this season, several designers chose to go commando. By that we mean the many takes on military styles. Both Balenciaga and Prada came up with their own version of the bomber jacket and Calvin Klein offered officer-style greatcoats with a restructured, higher waistline. Colors like navy, gray and brown helped to secure that look.
One fabric that made its way on almost every runway this fall was velvet. Marc Jacobs relied heavily on the fabric for his fall collection, as he offered variations of velvet dresses, skirts and coats. Dior went a step further with his yellow velvet mary janes, complete with pom-pom. Would we expect anything less? Finally, YSL gave us velvet suits, belts and of all things, jewelry. Chunky silver cuffs with velvet insets were his solution to the upcoming trend.
Shoes caught the eye of many at the fall shows, but none so much as the high boot. As a matter of fact, it's been touted as the accessory of the season. From rich leathers and croc to heavy motorcycle boots, don't find yourself without a pair. The taller and sexier, the better!
Speaking of must-have accessories, no outfit would be complete without a big bag for fall. The bigger, the better. Gucci came out with their version of the doctor bag, as did Prada. But don't go tossing those clutches any time soon; with fashion as finicky as it is, you never know when you might need them.
Last season, white was temporarily dubbed the new black. Well guess what…? Black is back once again exactly where it should be, dominating most must-have items for fall. Whether in soft suedes, rich velvets or the more stately wools and tweeds, we can all celebrate the safe return of our favorite color.
Several designers including Chanel, Prada and Ralph Lauren, decided to try their hand at creating Victorian looks for fall. With fitted jackets and blouses with higher necklines and puffed sleeves, another example of sexy elegance was showcased for the upcoming season. Tea anyone?
Last but not least, what fun would fashion be without a touch of eternal youth? Gucci gave their devoted fans exactly what they wanted, a little attitude, with their rocker-chick-meets-Goth-girl look. Lots of heavy black fabrics, vampy shoes and fringed skirts made their way up and down the catwalks. Girls just wanna have fun, ya know!
