Vibrant blues, yellows and reds dominated the second half of many designers’ shows this winter at the New York fashion events, sharply contrasting the blacks, whites and grays that composed the first half.
However, these aren’t the neons of the 1980s — instead of colors thrown together in blinding Jackson Pollock-esque style, garments are instead made of only one, richly-hued neon. The satins and cottons, unlike the 80s polyester blend Member’s Only jackets, give the neon colors an upscale look.
Marc by Marc Jacobs’ looks exemplify the neon trend. He’s paired rich neons together, creating an overall style that we’ll see much more of as the year progresses.
2008 will be an ode to the 1920s and 60s. Christian Dior’s collection took a voile and satin spin on the flapper dress, spicing up the look with length and clean, tailored cuts. Beading is back, subtly adding sparkle to intricate designs. The tailored cut will replace the oversized look that has reigned over the fashion industry for the past few years. Form-fitting dresses will be paired with exotic prints and fabrics, as in the Marc by Marc Jacobs’ line.
Though you should expect to see drab grays, blacks and navy blues in the fall, cuts and avant-garde details will transform the collections into anything but. Here to stay are long peacoats in both neutrals and the occasional splash of neon as well as classic skirts and dresses that emphasize modern shapes. 2008 fashion is a contemporary take on the classic pieces derived from the 20s, 60s and 70s. Nothing is excessively long or short, voluminous or tight. Zac Posen’s pre-fall collection takes sharp, cleanly-cut patterns and pairs them with heavy gray fabrics. And just like many fashions, he’s incorporated last year’s trends into his own designs: the full satin coat. However, his sharp, architectural cuts balance out the volume and add a new twist. Burberry’s pre-fall line exudes classic style, pairing tights, jersey dresses and long-sleeved sweaters.
And tights haven’t quite left the fashion realm. You’ll see them paired with dresses, above-the-knee skirts and long coats. However, light denim is making a comeback with Chanel’s line, as the fabric is used from jeans to shirts.
Marc Jacobs has created a new version of the asymmetrical cut: not only are some of his garments in the Marc by Marc Jacobs line off-kilter, they’re a union between two distinct styles. Although this look might filter down to more commercial stores and designs, it might also die with his collection.
This spring, it might be time to throw at least one established fashion rule to the wayside. It’s clear from the lines shown at the Spring 2008 Ready-to-Wear runway shows — designers are not hesitating to include white, and lots of it, in their repertoires. Favorites like Christian Dior, Chanel and Marc by Marc Jacobs are including this often-forbidden hue before Memorial Day (GASP). In Dior’s line, long, swingy coats and pin-striped trousers come in white and cream shades. Chanel models marched the runway wearing white Bermuda shorts and dresses. A common theme in both lines is solid white combined with solid grays and blacks. The Marc by Marc Jacobs line features white in the form of stripes, often paired with black. Regardless of what it’s paired with, it appears white before Memorial Day is no longer taboo. So don’t hesitate to pair that white jacket with some black pants, or that white jumper with a dark, solid colored cardigan and head to class in style.
