Cold front
Fall is inevitably upon fashion’s fore and while we admittedly live in a country that only has two seasons, we are nevertheless more than happy to engage our wardrobes in that requisite seasonal makeover. Sure, what we have on our shores is a far cry from a picturesque winter wonderland often depicted in period movies. Then again, this does not necessarily follow that the metro’s fashionable set is devoid of stylish layering, donning that chic jacket or imbibing a look that brings to mind images from quixotic Paris in Fall. We, too, are faced with our very own fashion rendering of a cold front and it is one that brilliantly fuses the many facets of style — minimal prep, feminine French, cultural chic and even monastic monochrome.
As with the launch of every collection for the season, we witness the unveiling — or, perhaps it is more apt to say, the reinvention — of Fall’s fabrics. With the pleasant cool breeze gracing long evenings and dramatic, gloomy afternoons, chiffons and light cottons and similar fabrics from past seasons take a step back to make way for more severe and somber pieces suited, quite perfectly we add, for the inevitable drop in temperature. This year, the fabrics of Fall are taking on a more diverse direction as they cater to the varied and dynamic lives and styles of the contemporary dresser.
Young designer Philip Lim, whose cult following has become very significant in the shape of today’s fashion, included in his prep school-inspired collection coats in tweed that translate into a new approach in wearability. On the other hand, Karl Lagerfeld’s creations for Chanel showcased a strong and visually compelling Parisian subtheme utilizing rugby vests, bob crochets and tweeds.
The overall result of the collection was inarguably innovative whilst remaining true to the label’s essence since it first opened shop in the ‘20s — simple, flawless femininity. Another definitive collection for this year from Nicholas Ghesquiere for Balenciaga brought to light a global celebration of sorts. Taking inspiration from both the East and West, his sheer ingenuity composed a most complex and resonant mix of using, among others, fabrics like velvet, tweed on andro-cool smoking jackets and dyed wools. Jil Sander’s Raf Simons, however, seems to have been working on the other side of Fall’s fashion spectrum this year with pieces that, true to the brand’s design aesthetic and sensibility, essentially evoked pragmatic airs, celebrated for its clean, precise lines and patterns. Sander’s ribbed knits, most notably, proved most complementary to the collection’s consistently monastic appeal.
These are only a few of the offerings that the runways in style capitals like New York, Paris and Milan have brought to fashion’s faithful — pieces that are visually compelling, intellectually designed and innovative permutations on classic, traditional fabrics that a cooler season requires.
These are the fabrics of Fall:
A-CORD. Many are hesitant about cords. Some may insist that they are not flattering while others may insist that they are passé. With the right proportion and cut, however, this so-called old school piece can be played up to suit the trendiest of looks this season.
RIBBED ON. Ribbed pieces are very versatile as you can pair them with just about anything. Go all out preppy by layering them with streamlined pieces.
KNIT PICK. Add color and texture to a sleek piece by throwing in a playful knitted wrap. This will immediately give your look a more global feel.
(E-mail the author at bianca.salonga@gmail.com)
