Whether inspiration is found in big cats, bikers or cowboys, fall’s most sensational trends play up a sense of character. From covetable collar necklaces to eye-catching heels, Odessa Paloma Parker explains how to harness the allure of pieces that pop.
Spot on
An over-the-top take on leopard print at the Tom Ford fall 2018 show.Catwalking
If you’re hearing the call of the wild right now, you’re not alone. Animal prints have always been en vogue, but this season designers devised ways to keep the look fresh and fierce. Tom Ford’s runway show featured an acid green ensemble splashed top-to-bottom with leopard print – the unusual colour emphasized the playful print well. Such a brassy look might be best kept on the catwalk, though, so some brands have adopted a less outrageous approach by pairing spots with more simple silhouettes. To capture the beauty of majestic beasts without appearing too outré, use spotty pieces as a dynamic punctuation point rather than the central focus of an outfit. For example, wear a bold bag with your trusty LBD on a night out, or add oomph to a weekend look by wearing spots with a simple white tee. These tweaks show your style prowess without leaving you looking overpowered.
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Pull-on pants, $29.99 at H&M.
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Ganni Bijou cotton-poplin shirt, US$170 through net-a-porter.com.
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DVF Diane von Furstenberg clutch bag, $187 through farfetch.com.
Leather weather
Metallic studding and a mashup of materials make Versace’s moto jacket a twist on an old favourite.Catwalking
When the temperature dips, few can resist the rugged good looks of a leather jacket – certainly not the myriad fashion creatives who took the iconic item and turned it up a notch. In addition to an abundance of leather trousers and skirts appearing on the runways of labels such as Marc Jacobs and Alexander McQueen, designers such as Donatella Versace reworked motorcyclist style; the imaginative Italian added plaid and metal pieces to the mix. But the appeal of pelage extends beyond those who crave the rebellious vitality of the iconic moto jacket. From lengthy trenches to toppers that exude an athletic spirit, cover up in a way that reflects your own vibe, be it sophisticated or sporty. If you’re still drawn to the classic biker look, plenty of brands offer edgy options tempered by chic details such as polished hardware or collarless designs.
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Krysta jacket, $950 through mackage.com.
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Rene belted jacket, $1,580 at Reiss.
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Collection motorcycle jacket, $660 at J.Crew.
Tight race
As seen at Hermès, a collar necklace can take even a turtleneck sweater from plain to polished.HANDOUT
Statement jewellery gets up close and personal – to the neck – this season, with collars adorning the clavicles of models at the Saint Laurent, Hermès and Alexander Wang shows. Evoking a sense of regalness – perhaps because they loosely resemble the ruff worn by royals such as Queen Elizabeth I – the style is an antidote to the petite pendant necklaces favoured by millennials, and lends an air of assured accessorizing to your nights out or days at the office. Styles range from bejewelled to artful to minimalist, each adding their own kind of zest to an outfit. While you can certainly play up a strapless cocktail look with the style, crew neck shirts and even fine-gauge turtlenecks can be enhanced with the addition of these chic circles. Collars do command attention, so be careful not to overload yourself with other baubles.
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Robert Lee Morris Soho Moonrise necklace, $120 at Hudson’s Bay.
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Aquila necklace, $125 through lielandlentz.com.
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Most necklace, $549 at Swarovski.
Saddle up
Coach 1941 designer Stuart Vevers toyed with the urban cowboy look at the brand’s fall show.HANDOUT
The hipster lumberjack look has finally met its match. Find your home on the range this fall thanks to menswear’s western leanings in collections from Dries Van Noten and Calvin Klein. As seen on the Coach 1941 catwalk, details such as shirt collar tips, fringe and even cowboy boots can exist in urban settings, too; the trick is to update them by pairing with more contemporary fare. Before you reach for a Stetson to dip your toe into the trend, instead look for pieces that emanate cowboy confidence but don’t look costume-y; handsome ankle boots, especially those with burnished finishes, will do the trick. Or perhaps a belt, complete with horseshoe buckle and debossing is more your fancy? Even more understated is shirting with a western-style yoke – the stitching across the upper chest – which can be worn with twill trousers. Happy trails, partner.
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Gap slim-fit shirt, $64.95 at Gap.
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Qiressa boots, $155 at Aldo.
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John Varvatos Star USA calfskin leather belt, $158 at Harry Rosen.
Lifted spirits
A pair of sensational sandals at Prada get a boost from plucky heels.HANDOUT
Fall’s peppy pumps, boots and mules give the phrase “well-heeled” new meaning. From Prada’s quirky sandals adorned with faux flames to Balmain’s chain-link heeled booties, novel footwear has achieved new heights. But you don’t have to reach lofty levels to adopt this look; mules with demure kitten heels or sturdy block-heel styles are equally as enticing as their more precarious looking counterparts. Seek out pieces with details that recall architectural elements, rely on graphic lines or feature metallic finishes. The rest of the shoe can be just as interesting or sleek and simple. As for your outfit choice? It’s up to you whether to amplify the audaciousness or let your feet get all the glory; the season’s selection of patterned tights would enhance the wow factor for sure. Such saucy heels will pair best with cropped denim and midi skirts – anything that draws attention downward.
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Zo heels, US$450 through tibi.com.
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Jeffrey Campbell Cryptic 2 mules, $185 at Nordstrom.
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Bette houndstooth flannel pumps, $188 at Ann Taylor.
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