I've always been a summer girl myself. There is something free and quite romantic about donning a summer dress, espadrille wedges (preferably of the Prada type) and a straw hat and letting the heady summer days run away with you. Autumn always hits like a brick wall; the days begin to draw in earlier and the weather constantly teases our wardrobes: coat, blazer or cardigan?
September has swiftly arrived and, dare I say, I'm fairly excited about the start of this new season. Fortunately for those of us who aren't welcoming winter with open arms, a number of summer trends are making the transition into autumn and the new year: vivacious colour blocking; the 1970s and the ladylike appeal of the 1940s. With a new season, however, comes new experimentation; designers have injected a playful attitude into their collections with polka dots, fetish wear and eclectic print making a daredevil debut.
Alexander McQueen, Louis Vuitton and Lanvin paraded models in sexy, black lace blouses, skin tight black leather and lace up thigh boots; this look is fierce yet utterly seductive and should be worn with confidence. Alternatively, keep the trend youthful as seen at Dolce and Gabbana, by pairing a slinky lace dress with a cute pair of ankle socks and kitten heels; a hint of fifties style ensures a mischievous yet classic take on the trend.
Print has, in the last few seasons, become a statement in its own right thanks to exciting, avant-garde designers Mary Katrantzou and Holly Fulton, however I've found it can be one of the hardest trends to wear day-to-day due to the mix match of colours and texture; this season polka dots are everywhere and multiplying fast. It would seem the bolder the better with Marc Jacobs, Diane Von Furstenberg and Stella McCartney dressing their models in head to toe spots. Whilst Marc Jacobs kept the trend fun and playful, Stella McCartney remained sophisticated with sheer blouses embroidered with carefully placed polka dots and point d'esprit, bodycon dresses with modest polka dot detail. Fortunately for those of us who don't wish to wear the trend head to toe, the high street have simple, everyday pieces adorned in black and white spots, suitable for bringing any outfit on trend.
Winter, in my opinion, has always instigated luxury: oversized cashmere knits; faux fur coats and thick leather gloves remain stylish and practical. This season, colour plays a key role among keeping collections sumptuous with ruby, citrine and emerald shades enriching autumn's colour palette. Pillar-box red was seen at Gucci, Matthew Williamson and Rodarte in the form of glitzy, sequin midi skirts and chiffon evening gowns, whilst emerald hues punctuated collections by Mulberry, Valentino and Ralph Lauren. For maximum impact wear the same jewel tone throughout; although minimalist, the colours ooze elegance and remain highly desirable.
There is something for everyone this season and I'm tempted to try a bit of everything. I've already had a pair of polka dot, sheer tights arrive on my doorstep that I intend to pair with a plain black pencil skirt and a lace blouse that will tuck nicely into jeans. The new season is upon us and I aim to embrace it; forget winter's practicality and delight in exploration.