Trend report: Sequins

If there is a sure fire way to inject a little festive sparkle into your winter wardrobe it is by adding a few sequins. Whilst it is natural to want to wrap oneself in dowdy layers as the temperature plummets, I urge you to resist this not-so-stylish impulse and brighten up your look with this seasons must-have embellishment; sequins.

Ashish - Village Press

For Fall/Winter 2010 this hotter-than-hot brand has applied sequins to every form of clothing imaginable. As always, Ashish’s collection has a young, relaxed vibe to it and with their brightly coloured tribal inspired patterns, slouchy shapes and urban feel, Ashish’s sequin-embellished pieces would be more at home in a hip down-town club than a glamorous cocktail party. But despite its daytime wearability, there is nothing shy and retiring about this collection. So if ladylike luxe is not your style, take your queue from Ashish and wear your sequinned pieces oversized, teamed with clashing colours with a healthy dose of attitude for the most laid-back way to rock the look.

Tibi - Relativemo

Over the past few seasons, ultra cool New York based brand Tibi has become a favourite amongst the fashion elite with its effortless elegance and signature city chic style. The label’s take on the sequin trend is one of the most versatile around and offers a variety of stunning pieces suitable for day or night. If it’s a party dress you’re after, try Tibi’s sequin-panelled strapless mini. Or if you feel like something a little more grown-up then their long-sleeved, floor-sweeper embellished with inky black sequins is just the thing. And it’s not just Tibi’s dresses that have been given the sequin treatment. The brands Fall/Winter 2010 collection also includes several delicious sequin-embellished T-shirts that would be perfect for cocktail hour when worn with skinny jeans and this seasons peep-toe shoe-boots. On top of that, Tibi has also come up with the perfect solution to the day-to-night wardrobe dilemma encountered by all busy fashionistas; sequinned jackets. Just throw one of these sparkly lovelies on over you’re work attire then add sky scraper heels and a delicate clutch to be instantly party ready.

DVF

Diane von Fustenburg has long since made her name as fashions reigning Queen of party dresses so it’s no wonder that her sequin-embellished beauties are among the most desirable around this season. Everything about the brand Fall/Winter 2010 collection oozes ladylike glamour and whether you’re dressing up for an elegant soiree or simply want to stay stylish whilst you finish off the Christmas shopping, this label has something for you. Fustenberg’s use of sparkle on ruffle-detailed organza dresses and delicate shrugs offers a deliciously feminine alternative to this season’s fiercer evening looks. For a more casual way to bedazzle, choose one of her delicate cardigans or chic sweaters. With their subtle sequin detailing, the label’s embellished separates are the ultimate way to work the trend for a glamorous daytime look.

Sadaf Malaterre

Pakistani designer Sadaf Malaterre is famous for her bold colours and flirty, fun dresses. The designer has used sequins on dresses, tops and even saris but in an unconventional and funky way. These creations have just right amount of bling and are perfect for everything from a night out with girlfriends, a party or even a wedding.

French Connection

This season the high street has really embraced the sequin trend wowing us with a myriad of glittering garments in all shapes and styles. Leading the way is high street giant, French Connection. This season it has outdone itself to bring us a selection of sequin-embellished pieces fit for even the most fashionable of events. Mini’s, maxi’s, long-sleeved, sleeves, one-shouldered, body-con, loosely flowing... You name it and I guarantee that French Connection has not only got it, but has also bedazzled it beautifully.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 9^th, 2011.