Fall 2015 Trend: Victor, Victorian

You can just sense it: the nippy cold weather, the crunchy leaves underneath your feet and the lingering aroma of pumpkin spice lattes. Yes, it's fall. And while a new, chillier season may mean strictly whipping out the cozy sweaters for some, the dawn of autumn means something different for fashion's flock. Consider it the sartorial new year: out with the old trends and in with the new. To break down the hottest trends of the season, welcome to The Trendologist's fall guide. Each week, a new trend will be highlighted with shop-able must-haves. 

Back in high school, she who donned all black and dramatic lipstick was known as "that weird emo outcast." In 2015? Thanks to several top designers -- and a sleek, Victorian twist -- your standard gothic girl has gotten a very chic makeover. She was everywhere on the fall runways. At Marc Jacobs, ominous hues were swapped out for warmer colors. But don't think this was a full departure from brooding style: the full skirts, nipped coats and vampy lip provided a sunny way for this trend to shine. Insider favorite Joseph Altuzarra brought this trend to the 21st century by juxtaposing sheer, high-necked lace tops with up-to-there slits, knee-high laced boots and loads of sequins. Looking for something more traditional? Turn to Ricardo Tisci's collection at Givenchy, where models cascaded down the runway in vampy velvets, brocades and faces adorned with gloomy jewels. The result? A juxtaposition between dark, ladylike chic and punk. Equally classic -- but with an undeniably softer, feminine touch -- was Alberta Ferretti's iteration of the trend: some looks were prim with fitted layers and other ethereal with touches of delicate lace and Elizabethan-worthy collars.With romantic ruching and sugar-coated shades, Alexander McQueen's variation of this trend blends salacious Victorian lady in waiting with the likes of an eery doll. Whether modern or traditional, but never too literal, there's an option for everyone on the sartorial spectrum.

Marc Jacobs, Look 43

Altuzarra, Look 4

Givenchy, Look 9

Alberta Ferretti, Look 48

Alexander McQueen, Look 27

1. Alex Monroe 2. Givenchy 3. Dorothy Perkins 4. Gianvito Rossi 5. Marc Jacobs 6. Alexander McQueen

It doesn't take a brain surgeon to realize that with one false (sartorial) move, this trend can veer into costumey territory. But with three factors in mind -- fit, material and color palette -- you can easily keep your outfit's Victorian inspiration forward-thinking. Instead of reaching for your closest body-con dress or baggy garb opt for a happy medium: ideal Victorian-inspired apparel should fit snug at the waist and a tad voluminous elsewhere. If you're looking for some reference, think back to Kirsten Dunst in Marie Antoinette as a loose inspiration -- but preferably without the heightened hair and corset.  Translation: shop for tailored coats and fitted, full-skirted dresses. While it's easy to think that the only way to go Victorian this fall is by investing in tons of black apparel, select a few pieces in other subtle neutral colors. For example, a maroon or navy dress is a great alternative to a creepy long-sleeved noir dress. Lastly, to give your trendy items a sophisticated twist with tactile fabrics. Forget polyester: wools, silks and lace will have your threads looking ultra-feminine and polished. But what about those mid-century-esque accessories? Use them sparingly and with modern pieces. Just like in Altuzarra's collection, a pair of lace-up booties will look super sexy with a high-slit skirt and a dainty cameo necklace can be styled with a cozy sweater for a fall-friendly ensemble.

Will you participate in this trend? Sound off below! 

Runway images courtesy of VogueRunway.com

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Spring 2015 Trend: Check Mate

After a winter filled with debilitating blizzards, slick roads and slushy aftermath, there is light at the end of the tunnel. With spring just around the corner, scheming an outfit that consists of more than an oversized sweater, pair of jeans and clunky snow boots won't be easy. For instant outfit inspiration, take a look at the Trendologist's picks for top spring 2015 trends.

"Florals for spring? Groundbreaking." As the overstated, yet accurate, line from The Devil Wears Prada decrees, taking a sartorial lesson from the hyacinths and peonies that bombard your deli corners is passé. A print that's equally springtime-inspired, yet significantly less cliché, is gingham, which happened to run rampant on the spring runways. Far from Mary-Ann's traditional ensemble, designers' takes on this pattern offered more gravitas (and no coconut cream pie). Always at the fashion vanguard, Joseph Altuzarra showcased a polished alternative to this usually casual motif. The New York designer's collection of ladylike power suits in an array of colors is completely office-friendly. Equally feminine and sophisticated is Oscar de la Renta's heap of statement jackets that debuted at the late designer's farewell show. Paired with a delicate lace top and glamazon earrings, de la Renta's version of this trend exudes a "Lady Who Lunches" attitude. But not every example of gingham this season must adhere to prim and proper standards. Styled with a wide belt and off-the-shoulder sweater, Michael Kors's full skirts are the perfect way to give this feminine print an offbeat twist. And what about Bottega Veneta's peachy shirtdress? With the right accessories, this gingham-clad getup is perfect for almost any occasion. If you haven't gotten over your style rut from this year's harsh winter, remedy your wardrobe with a fetching matching top and shorts a la Diane von Furstenberg's spring show. Rid this ensemble of any Gilligan's Island connotations with a pair of platform sandals.

Altuzarra Look 3

Oscar de la Renta  Look 11 

Michael Kors 48

Bottega Veneta Look 34

Diane Von Furstenberg Look 27

1. Chloé 2. Altuzarra  3. Intermix 4. Michael Kors  5. No.21  6. Dolce & Gabbana 7. Sam & Lavi



Repeat after me: I will not dress like a farmer, I will not dress like a farmer. Though top designers deem the cheery print worthy of our spring wardrobes, gingham tends to veer into barnyard territory. Free yourself from any Old MacDonald connotations by matching this print with modern, or ultra girly, silhouettes. While a checkered cropped shirt or pinafore dress may read campy, Michael Kors's mint halter dress is a forward-thinking replacement. Chloé's ruffled iteration is risky, but will add dimension (and a smile) to your look. Now that selecting au courant checkered pieces is a slice of sartorial cake, how does one style this notoriously finicky print? Play off the pattern's color. A cobalt overcoat will look striking with baby blue and white gingham; however, the look's monochromatism will surprisingly appease the farm girl fad. But if your closet is lacking vibrant statement pieces, opt for crisp white pieces to score an effortlessly chic outfit. Not ready to take the plunge on this trend? Ease into this phenomenon with a sweet gingham bikini.

What do you think of this trend? Sound off below!

All runway photos courtesy of Style.com

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Fall 2014 Trend: Shear(ling) Madness

Though this summer was more tame than its heatwave-worthy predecessors, a notable shift from flouncy dresses to loads of layers is underway. And if last year's Polar Vortex is any indication of the season to come, we are in for a long, frigid winter. How will any style savant stay warm and au courant this season? Luckily, fall's biggest trends are (somewhat) blizzard friendly.

Welcome to the Fall 2014 trend guide. As always, each week highlights  a major trend for Fall/Winter 2014 and how you can get the look. So let's get started, shall we?

Admit it: the biggest trends are not always practical for the every day. However, some of the industry's hottest designers have given us just what we instinctively want for winter: a warm and cozy coat. Luckily, the basic necessity get a little dramatic this season with loads of shearling.

While some brands such as Altuzarra took a minimalist approach to this trend, the majority was in favor of maximalism. Miuccia Prada's sheeny fabrics and vivid color palettes act as the poster child for this phenomenon- the perfect blend between a wearable coat and a high-octane piece. If you're truly looking to make a sartorial splash, Akris's Creative Director Albert Kriemler brought this trend to the next level with an unapologetically textured coat. Looking for lots of shearling with a subdued color palette? Sacai's thick, textured lapel completely fits the bill. And calling all cool girls: Coach's collection of cropped, shearling-clad jackets are sure to be your staple this season. Streamlined, ostentatious, or something in between, there's at least one to swoon over.

Altuzarra Look 26

Prada Look 11

Akris Look 5

Sacai Look 34

Coach Look 7

The million dollar question: how do you rock this trend without looking like a glorified yetti? While adding a shearling bag to any ensemble may the easiest way to embrace this phenomenon, it would be a major mistake not to experiment with one of the market's crazy coats. From a subtle collar to courageous fuzz, there are so many options on the market that you are bond to fall in love with at least one piece. But just because you're amplifying your look's texture doesn't mean you can't also play with volume. A wide leg trouser with a frills-filled coat or pleated skirt with a lined bomber are great choices. However, if you have a penchant for accessories, there are some amazing bags and shoes to choose from as well. Instead of bringing your outdoorsy spirit to the sartorial limelight, opt for textured,minimalist pieces--a crisp tote or streamlined booties are ideal.

1. Chloé 2. Loeffler Randall 3. Acne Studios 4. Altuzarra 5. Miu Miu 6. Opening Ceremony 7. Jeffrey Campbell 8. MSGM 9. Wendee Ou

Are you ready to rock some shearling this winter? Sound off below!

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Spring 2014 Trend: Slits of Skin

After months of being hidden in loads of layers, it's finally time to show some skin. The sun is out and it's about time we soak up some Vitamin D. Lucky for us, the industry's leading designers have allowed spring to be one revealing season. And equally lucky for us, we don't have to have the perfect abs to flaunt the latest trend. Though Barbara Bui took the ab fab fad to the extreme with thin bandeaus, the minds behind Salvatore Ferragamo layered their cropped top underneath some semi-sheer shirts. Gaia Trussardi gave this phenomenon a 90's twist with baggy leather pants navel-baring tops. But don't worry trendsetters, you can highlight your cleavage, as seen in Proenza Schouler's spring collection, or prove that your hips don't lie in one of Alexander Wang's slashed tops. And let's not forget Joseph Altuzarra's array of sexy slit skirts. Translation? You can have your cake and eat it too.

Barbara Bui, Look 10

Salvatore Ferragamo,  Look 11

Trussardi, Look 31

Proenza Schouler, Look 19

Alexander Wang, Look 14

Altuzarra, Look 3

Whether you're highlighting your cleavage, showing off your abs, or letting your legs take center stage, you must feel comfortable when rocking this trend. An exposed ensemble sans confidence is a major faux pas. In order to wear this trend on a day to day basis, it's important to not show too much skin. Leaving something to the imagination never goes out of style. If you're wearing a cropped top, try pairing it with a high-waisted trouser. Showing some leg? Complement your sexy skirt with a cozy sweater. But just because you are subduing the rest of your outfit doesn't mean you should hold back on your makeup and accessories. Paint that fire engine red lacquer on your pout and sport those strappy sandals, if your outfit permits.

Diane Von Furstenberg chiffon dress / The Row white sweater / T By Alexander Wang raglan shirt, $260 / Lace top, $66 / Altuzarra white skirt / Lanvin black pants

What do you think of this trend? Sound off  below! 

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Spring 2014 Trend: The Reinvented Button Down

Blouses, button-downs, oxford shirts: whatever you call them, it's no secret that this wardrobe staple is noting new. In fact, everyone wears them: teachers, lawyers, off-duty models, you name it. So why is this passé top suddenly a coveted trend this spring? The industry's leading visionaries have changed the way we see this shirt. While Raf Simons morphed the button-down into sporty shirt dresses, Alexander Wang produced a skin-baring variation at his eponymous runway show. Alternatively, other designers revitalized this classic with some offbeat styling tactics. Joseph Altuzarra gave his take a saucy twist with an unbuttoned shirt and high-slit skirt and Olivier Rousteing matched his oxford with a gutsy pair of overalls. And when all else fails, designers turned to ladylike embellishments a la No.21's Alessandra Dell'Acqua did. I know what you're thinking: time to give your trusty oxford shirt a second look.

No. 21, Look 11

Christian Dior, Look 11

Altuzarra, Look 22

Alexander Wang, Look 12

Balmain, Look 29

The best part about this trend is that you don't have to invest in entirely new pieces. With a few quirky style techniques, you can add your everyday button down into a sartorially superior ensemble. Whether you want to pair this piece with a tomboyish pair of overalls or a sultry skirt, the key is juxtapose this traditional top with unconventional pieces. For an ultra laid back look, style your top with a pair of slouchy pants or a sporty pleated skirt.  As for the overall look, it's entirely up to you! Slick your hair back, add a red lip, or throw on the accessories--this look is ultra versatile. But if you're dying to purchase a shirt dress or one of Alexander Wang's jumpsuits, now is a better time than any! These refreshing pieces are an effortless outfit: you only need a to add few accessories. The choice is yours!

Equipment silk dress / Richard Nicoll long sleeve shirt dress / Halston Heritage dress / Gap shirt dress / STELLA McCARTNEY white top / Alexander Wang cotton jumpsuit / Lucas Nascimento navy skirt / Current Elliott denim jumpsuit / Helmut by Helmut Lang black romper

What do you think about this trend? Sound off below! 

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Spring 2014 Trend: Heavy Metals

Though the polar vortex has many believing that we will spend the rest of our lives in fur and oversized,  pastel jackets, spring is quickly approaching. As the temperature rises, and the layers of clothes begin to decrease, you can always count on The Trendologist to give you this season's chicest style advice. Fashionistas, the spring trend round up has landed.

Metallics as a trend? Groundbreaking. Though the glitzy hues are a no brainer for some-- red carpet sirens, prom queens, and Vegas showgirls, for example-- the lustrous colors have been manipulated to make any style savant swoon. While Dries Van Noten inserted hints of gold into his avant garde ruffles, Proenza Schouler's Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough ended their spring show with a sea of tinsel-infused pleats. While Hedi Slimane gave Saint Laurent's glossy gold a Studio 54 aesthetic, you can always rely on Stefano and Domenico unapologetically Italiano looks at Dolce and Gabbana. And who could forget Joseph Altuzarra's sultry high-slit and sporadic fringe? Game changer at NYFW. With so many looks and techniques to choose from, each designer proves that metallic doesn't need to be saved for a special occasion. This spring, it can be worn effortlessly at any given moment.

Dolce & Gabbana Look 27

Saint Laurent Look 38

Altuzarra Look 30

Dries Van Noten Look 50

Proenza Schouler Look 22

Admit it: no matter how fabulous you are, it's your first instinct to embrace this trend with a pair of gold strappy sandals or a structured silver clutch, right? Step away from the accessories, trendsetters. The latest collections force all style trailblazers out of their comfort zone with gilded apparel. As easy as it is to find a metallic bodycon skirt and call it a day, 'tis the season to focus on thoughtful details and looser silhouettes. Sartorially speaking, a boxy or flared bronze skirt trumps a tight silver dress. Give your tinsel a daytime-approved twist with softer fabrics. The juxtaposition between unabashedly glamorous and low maintenance is still gold (pun intended).

But if the focus of your ensemble is your metallic clothes, how are you supposed to accessorize? Since looking like a shiny penny (literally) is out of the question, opt for neutral shoes and purses. And unless you're going to paint the town red, keep a fresh face with minimal make up.

No21 top, $490 / J Crew vintage shirt / Yves Saint Laurent motorcycle jacket / MARC BY MARC JACOBS short skirt / Sass & Bide skinny jeans / Monki silver metallic skirt, $49

So what do you think of this trend? I'm dying to know!
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All runways photos courtesy of Style.com

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13 Favorite Runway Looks of 2013

Whether you're dashing from show to show or examining every look on Style.com, fashion month is the ultimate time for style savants to gush over the latest silhouettes, most delicious fabrics, and best emerging trends. But after thousands of looks, which have obviously been curated in your fashion-forward Pinterest boards, it's hard to remember every pleat, trouser, and shoe that sashays down the catwalk. However, there are some runway ready ensembles that are so ingrained into your memory that you can't get them out of your head.  In no particular order, here are the top 13 looks that will inspire me well into 2014.

Proenza Schouler Spring 2014 RTW, Look 21: I dare you to tell me you don't adore everything that Lorenzo Hernandez and Jack McCollough design. You can't, right? Exactly. The Parsons classmates turned Proenza Schouler masterminds always deliver perfectly au courant pieces. While their entire spring collection was to die for, I have a (not-so) healthy obsession with the finale looks. A cross bodice with metallic pleats? Perfection. What I love so much about this look is that it's unapologetically now and anyone who has a penchant for divine threads will adore this. Lauren Santo Domingo was spotted rocking a similar look from the spring collection as was Rooney Mara. And with the help of any secret admirer with endless connections and cash, I will also happily wear this look. But in cream, please. Wouldn't this make for the perfect New Year's Eve ensemble? 

Belstaff Pre-Fall 2014, Look 16: Bells and whistles asides, it's always comforting to see something on the runway that not only you would wear on a daily basis, but you can also copy with the clothes you already own. For me, this ensemble hit the nail on the head. Head to toe, I love this look so much that I can envision myself wearing it any day of the week (if weather permits). Belstaff has come such a long way since its waterproof jacket days, and I sincerely admire designers who can still make fashion upscale, yet accessible, to the masses. Brava!

Chloé Fall 2013 RTW, Look 3: I've been something of a cape fanatic for a couple years now. It all started with a short purple cape that I sported on my very first trip to London. In no time, my mere fascination accelerated into an obsession. Whether it was a black cape from a local boutique or a plaid cape on Brick Lane, I became so enamored with the feminine, yet powerful, image that capes brought. Isn't it about time Olivia Pope wears capes on the daily? A vibrant blue that stands out amongst a sea of black, this cape caught my eye months ago. When I saw it in person this summer, my feelings only increased. Paired with a sleek black dress and versatile boots, this look best exemplifies how to wear a cape without looking like an old maid.

Céline Fall 2013 RTW, Look 25: In case you didn't receive the memo, plaid was very big this fall. From Saint Laurent to Moschino, everyone was giving this lumberjack print a very chic makeover. Without a doubt, my favorite example of this trend was Céline's luxe tartan pieces. The traditional silhouette was paired with checks that gave us a new way to look at plaid. Phoebe Philo's heavy emphasis on the white lines offered a dash of minimalist modernity. The otherwise neutral ensemble made this a look that anyone could wear. It's perfect for the ambitious career woman, the Park Avenue housewife who is stopping by the latest PTA meeting before going out to eat, and even that downtown gal who's forced to go to an uptown gala. Try imagining yourself in this outfit. I promise you'll like what you see. 

Preen by Thornton Bregazzi Spring 2014 RTW, Look 17: On a day-to-day basis, what fashionista doesn't want to wear an effortlessly chic ensemble? Exactly. No fuss, just fashion. I adore this look because it's the perfect way to get a high-octane impact without trying too hard. Whether you're going to work or a coffee date, this ensemble is the ideal way to tell onlookers that you're up to date with trends but don't need to flaunt them.

Christian Dior Spring 2014 RTW, Look 58: At first, it was an alarming combination: Raf Simons and Christian Dior. While the former is synonymous with pure minimalism, style spectators always know that Dior will provide feminine ensembles with a modern twist. Would Simons give the design house yet another New Look? While Simons has a perspective that is very different from his predecessor, John Galliano, his designs have yet to disappoint me. While his latest spring collection seemed promising, it wasn't until the slew of jacquard dresses that I knew I was in love. A far cry from Simons's usual aesthetic, this dress revived Christian Dior's flouncy reputation while keeping it updated. Raf, you had me at the floral ambiance.

Tibi Spring 2014 RTW, Look 10: Over the past few seasons, I've had the pleasure of watching Tibi turn into a premier American brand. While Tibi used to be the go-to line for flirty tea dresses and fun prints, I love the sportswear direction Amy Smilovic has taken. Without a doubt, the spring collection was my favorite Tibi show thus far. With a nature loving theme, I adore how this look channels street style modernity through a very "back to the basics" lens. If you give me an easy one-piece, I'll be happy; however, Smilovic's use of contrasting fabrics and accessories made this one look I will never forget.

Valentino Fall 2013 Couture, Look 47: Out of all the official couture design houses, Valentino always amazes me with its hypnotizing patterns, bevy of slim-fitting silhouettes, and all-around regal air. Everything about this dress screams "Dainty Princess." Even though it is entirely sheer, the modest undergarments prevent an outlandishly sultry moment. It's one of the looks that is so special, it should probably be in an everything-proof vault or framed. Thank you, Pierpaolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri, thank you very much.

Carven Fall 2013 RTW, Look 25: Fall was the season of the coat. Though Carven featured gorgeous coats in dreamy pastels, this camel look is my favorite by far. There's something so standard about a camel ensemble; however, I strongly believe this hue is one of the most underestimated neutrals around. I love how this look is so sleek, yet the light pink and tan cracked top makes this more than another minimalist ensemble. Plus, those shoes are just divine! 

Dries Van Noten Spring 2014 RTW, Look 47: To be perfectly honest, it's impossible to categorize your style into one overarching adjective. You consider yourself "girly" until you swoon over a tough Balenciaga leather jacket. You're "classic" until you take a look at Prada's latest spring collection. And you're "minimalist" until you fall head over heels in love with Dries Van Noten's spring ruffles and dramatics pleats. I adore a clean, tailored ensemble; however, this look gives a neat look a frilly edge. Of course, you could never wear this look to the grocery store, however, Dries Van Noten gifts us with a relatively somber silhouette that doesn't compromise his extravagant collection. The long shorts are very Calvin Klein sleek while the top is reminiscent of something you would normally sport at the couture shows. The result? An outfit that deserves a standing ovation.

Stella McCartney 2014 Resort, Look 4: Every few seasons, there comes a collection that is 100 percent perfect. From the python print, to the embellished threads, to the floral patterns, Stella McCartney's cruise collection was just that. While the prints were indisputably feminine, McCartney pairs them with modern (and sometimes tomboyish) shapes. This look perfectly captures McCartney's design aesthetic for the cruise collection:
girly and current. I would like one of everything, please.

Altuzarra Spring 2014 RTW, Look 29: If Joseph Altuzarra's spring collection wasn't the most buzzed about New York collection, I don't know what was. Between the swarm of languid skirts and show-stopping metallics, this group of looks demand your undivided attention. I love this look because it combines the two focal trends from Altuzarra's collection without being too abrasive. To keep the attention on the gorgeous clothes, Altuzarra finishes this look with a pair of simple pumps. From date night to a charity gala, this look is the ultimate ensemble for any city's "It Girl."

Balenciaga Spring 2014 RTW, Look 37: If you didn't love enough Alexander Wang's eponymous brand label, he's been doing wonders at Balenciaga. Wonders, I say! For example, his spring collection was a perfect 

mélange of Wang's cutting-edge aesthetic and Balenciaga's high expectations. Old and new come together with this look: the silhouette is quite traditional, but sheer skirt mixed with the embellished dress bring something new to the table. J'adore!

Which runway looks did you love this year? Sound off below! 

All photos courtesy of Style.com

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