Top 3 Fashion Week Trends

After a globe-trotting whirlwind of shows, parties and presentations, Fashion Week is finally drawing to a close.

After a globe-trotting whirlwind of shows, parties and presentations, Fashion Week season is finally drawing to a close. Designers from all the fashion capitals, New York, London, Paris and Milan have treated us to a fabulous selection of autumn flare encompassing everything from knitwear to floor-length evening gowns with colours ranging from eye-popping neon’s to luscious autumn hues. With so many style variants taking centre stage, it’s difficult to decide which key trends to go for. So, to make those new season shopping sprees that little simpler, here are the three hottest catwalk trends to watch out for this season; from colours and cuts to embellishment.

Red

Bold colours are big news for Spring/Summer. The catwalks were awash with greens, blues, purples and just about every shade in between; but one colour that seemed to crop up everywhere was red. Scarlet, cherry and pillar box versions graced the catwalks all over town; when it comes to colour locally, Sadaf Malaterre and Ali Xeeshan are two designers that have nailed the bold and the beautiful.

Embellishment

One look at next season’s collections confirms that understatement won’t be making a comeback. Designers have embraced embellishment, bringing us intricate beading, shimmering sequins, delicate lace and sheer chiffon panelling. Whether you’re after a glamorous evening ensemble or just want to inject a little sparkle into your day to day style, embellishment is a trend that we can all tap into. Though most people know him as the king of colour, ace designer Nomi Ansari is second to none when it comes to embellishment. Following his ‘more is more’ philosophy; there is an array of embellishment on all his pieces.

Cut

Every season we see all kinds of shapes on the runway. Drop-waisted, high-waisted, baggy, body-con and of course the dreaded ‘cocoon’ all cropped up here and there on the catwalks but the cut that dominated fashion week seemed to be classic. It’s time to embrace your feminine side as designers have offered us an endless array of elegant ensembles featuring classic cuts, defined waists and sleek, figure-skimming silhouettes. Classic cuts demand highly skilled craftsmanship so look to tailoring masters Sana Safinaz and Elan for the ultimate ladylike silhouette.

Iman’s Dos:

• Incorporate cooler colours into your wardrobe to brighten it up

• Use a lot of accessories if you’re overwhelmed by embellishment

• Mix and match the trends

• Invest in longer hemlines

Iman’s Donts:

• Colour blocking is terrific for summer but is not a winter concept

• Over embellish

• Wear unflattering silhouettes. Pick the perfect shape for your body, there is plenty to choose from.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 6^th, 2011.