Don’t let the Indian summer fool you, fall is just around the corner and it’s time to dress the part. Frankly, with these trends afoot we can’t wait for the leaves to start falling.
Karen Richter, Showroom Manager for H&M Canada, shared her top fall/winter trends for 2011.
The ’70s
Womanly silhouettes define the ’70s fashion revival this season, like skirts and dresses that hit below the knee.
Wide-legged dress pants can be paired with a blouse that ties in a large, floppy bow at the collar. Go for a relaxed tailored look with a trench coat worn over flared dress pants or jeans. Key colours are camel, cognac and orange.
The ’60s
This look is more preppy and girlish with short and straight silhouettes. The A-line shift dress is a key piece, and is best worn with a high-heeled loafer and classic accessories like a multitude of jangling metal bangles. Important colours are beige and navy with bright pink, mustard or orange accents.
Glam
Think rich colours and textures. Expect dramatic black and jewel tones — like crimson, emerald, cobalt — in sumptuous fabrics like satin, velvet and silk fringe.
Wear this look now in black and deep red nail colours. The trend will become more visible in clothing as the holiday season approaches. Important pieces for women include the men’s style tuxedo and the kimono jacket.
Flower power
The floral prints that have sprouted up in seasons past show no signs of withering. Warm up the fall chill with vibrant flower print shirts, pants, dresses, or shoes.
Layering
This trend is perfect for cold Canadian winters. It’s all about volume — piling on layers and layers of knits. A tunic worn over loose trousers, or a chunky knit sweater dress over wool leggings is great for keeping warm this season, especially when topped with a coat, boots and a shearling hat.
Faux fur
It’s a big trend this season. H&M will be selling a wide range of faux fur garments and accessories including jackets, vests, faux fur trimmed sweaters, coats, and even bags and boots. Off the runway, the trend is best worn in small doses.
Footwear
- The chunky heel — It’s back for fall in pumps with or without a platform, booties and knee-high boots (to wear under those long ’70s skirts).
- Western influence — Look for boots in rich brown leathers and suedes that seem like they might belong in a stirrup. Try softening the look with a floral dress.
- Curved heel — These quirky shoes can help make an otherwise conservative outfit a little more playful.
- Conspicuous socks — Keep your tootsies warm and beguile onlookers by wearing solid or patterned socks with your high heels. Best worn scrunched down near the ankle.
