The shows seem soooo long ago. Can you believe that next Summer’s collections are closer than February’s merry-go-round already? My winter wishlist revolves around the same sort of things I always crave (some with more justification this season than others, viz: the polo-neck). I’m especially looking forward to wearing black from head to toe (but mixed up with multiple textures), wrapping up in tough leather jackets (I’ll wear Christopher Bailey, daily) and stomping the pavements as Warrior Woman (hear me roar) and adding a dash of protesting student style to my weekend look (hi Nicholas Ghesquiere!)
Here are my top trends for Autumn / Winter 2007 - 08.
The slim silhouette
The knee-length pencil is Winter’s newest skirt shape)
Sombre colours
Wearing black from head to toe - but in different textures is key
40s - every incarnation from Hollywood goddess to rustic Land Girl
Menswear - dandified trouser suits and luxe tuxe details
Volume v Body con. Again
Urban ethnic and eclectic
Mixing all your influences into one outfit
Warrior woman
Dark colours and leather equal a street-tough exterior
The statement coat
Whether worked fur, round-shouldered, short kimono-sleeves or with drama at the collar
Military
Double breasted details, shiny brass buttons, wide-leg trousers all on parade
Short flippy skirts
London (and some of Milan) still loving the Alaia silhouette
Sweater dressing
Easy one piece knits should be the core of every outfit
The new focus points
Built up shoulders and volume at the hip
Simple shapes
Autumn fashion is unfussy and pared down
Loose Poiret silhouettes
Round-shoulders and drop waists
Evening gowns go long and lean
Sheen and shine
Patent is still strong but the textural clash (where mohair, duchesse satin, taffeta and tweeds are all thrown into the mix) rocks harder
Colours
Of course trad Autumn shades of olive, burgundy and chocolate are around but mixed in with mint, grass, sky, cobalt and grape
Art deco prints - graphic, bold, blocky
The details: zips, feathers, embroidery, jet-beading, crystal shine, seams on show, long-haired fur
Shoes - the lace-up Oxford heel is king
Bags - a decorated day bag is diva-laxe
Gauntlets and gloves to be worn all season long
Wear it all with a belt at your natural waist, thick grey tights and, as an outfit’s punctuation moves North, a statement hat; cloches are coolest.