Time to Strut: Fashion for Fall 2012

By Andrew Wenzel —

Fashion coming straight off the 2012 fall Haute Couture catwalks in Paris, New York and Milan is exceptionally flawless and creative but isn’t a realistic choice when strutting through the office aisle or neighborhood sidewalk of daily life. The statements of couture fashion are meant to inspire fashionistas to integrate the trends that fit their lifestyle and unique attitudes. Versions of sophisticated elegance paired with a feminine/masculine agreement align to create this year’s street fall fashion trends.

Leather and Metal

Expect to see shiny waxed-on leather and faux-leather pants, skirts, coats, tops and boots in stores this fall. With the authoritative look commanding the season connecting raw metals to the leather look is an easy way to dominate trends this autumn. Consider adding a chunky broach to your lapel. Wear flats and choose handbags with studs and extra metal glam.

Be the Fairest of them All

Little girl dreams of childhood come true this fall with storybook inspired fashion. Christian Louboutin, known for his signature lacquered red-soled shoes, stunned the fashion world with his modern recreation of Cinderella-inspired glass slippers. Decorated with lace, sparkly butterflies and Swarovski crystals—nearly perfect in every way and free of any evil step-relatives. Another classic fantasy-story is all grown-up and inspiring fashion as the Peter-Pan collar continues to stay stylish this fall. Wearing collars decorated with studs and glam is a great and extremely trendy way to spice up tops this fall.

Vamp Romance

Autumn adds a dark twist to romance with lavish lace, hooded capes, sexy tunics and red leading the bloodthirsty fall trend—vamp romance. With the continuing popularity of dark pop culture television and film, fashion follows suit. Twilight, Grimm, True Blood and the Vampire Diaries influence the season’s balance between darkness, mystery and elegance. A simple way to add the trend to the daily wardrobe is by mixing red lipstick with dark lace. When choosing a shade of red for clothing and lips think of wine. Any shade that can be compared to the color of a glass of red vino, from crimson to burgundy is appropriate. Dark purple and deep blues can add the intrigue of the 18th century. While baroque ornamentation and embroidery adorns garments and accessories. Say hello to modern gothic.

All the Glitters Ain’t Gold

Commonly gold is associated with glitter, but this fall all colors of glitter are welcomed. Update any outfit with brightly colored shimmering statement belts, bags and shoes.

Gender Bending

Think masculine femininity through peacoats and pantsuits. Expect to see tuxedo coats and top hats this in this season’s fashion. The juxtaposition of leather and chiffon, male and female, is sultry and seductive and another great way to achieve this look. Much like the yin and the yang – two worlds joining in harmony.

Get Into Grandma’s Closet

Dig into your grandma’s closet because her clothes are getting some much deserved recognition this fall. Karl Lagerfeld’s “New Vintage” takes to the streets adding faux fur wraps and accessories to daily outfit selections. Classic loafers and and slippers from UggAustralia bring feet into this trend.While big eccentric hats are an easy way for ladies on-the-go to accessorize while big cozy sweaters over skinny jeans or leggings are a comfortable way to stay trendy.