The Return of 90's Grunge

90's grunge- influenced by such bands as Nirvana, I wore the fashions first time around! Despite this, I look forward to embarking on the trends once again after designers such as Richard Nicoll, Marc Jacobs and Erdem all sent their models down the catwalk wearing long skirts with laid-back baggy knits. The overall look is very relaxed and may include a small-scale, floral print on the skirt with a granny or alpine jumper. Rummage at jumble sales and charity shops where you are sure to find affordable (and environmentally friendly) options to mimic the coming seasons trend.

Grown-Up Glamour

From Louis Vuitton to Dries Van Noten, the A/W 2010 collections saw a shift from the body-con silhouettes of the summer to demure, lady-like styles. Skirts became much fuller and hem lines dropped to mid-calf, as well as heels lowering creating a 'grown-up' look.
To embrace and prepare me for the coming fashions, I am reading Americas Queen: The Life of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis by Sarah Bradford (Pub by the Penguin Group, 2001). Not only a great insight into the icons life, but the book also refers frequently to Jackie Os amazing sense of timeless style.

Continuing Lace Trend......

Summer saw a huge trend of white and pastel lace dresses from catwalk through to high street. Where ever you went you could be sure of finding someone wearing the fashion- from shopping, to nightclubs, to festivals.
The trend continues for A/W 2010, but with a darker presence of black and navy blues seen on the catwalk in the familiar lace dresses and blouses (Christopher Kane, Burberry Prorsum).
My advice: Dye your summer lace using Dylon dyes, but remember to check the fibres used as this will determine the best methods of colouring your garments. Dylon also offers lots of practical advice (e.g man-made fabrics require cold water dyes etc,)
www.dylon.co.uk

Maison Martin Margiela- Haute Couture A/W 2010

A new season brings new fashions- and with the house of Margiela celebrating their success with a 20 year retrospective at Somerset House (from 3 June to 5 Sept somersethouse.org.uk) named '20', the A/W 2010 collection shows how the original concepts of Maison Martin Margielas designs shook the fashion world up all those years ago!

With designs incorporating pre-made fashion accessories that have been deconstructed and reconstructed to form innovative garments. Such favourites of mine included the 'handbag' jacket, made from lizard, python, crocodile and snake skin disassembled bags- and the 'Cowgirl' outfit that used cowboy boots to create the trouser legs of the forward-thinking design.

The collection- although absent in eye-catching colour, was both exciting and thought-provoking for the fashion follower of couture and for those that seek eco-style. It reminded me of all the wonderful past creations from the designer back in the 90's and early noughties- true nostalgia!

(photos by Dazed and Confused)

www.dazeddigital.co.uk