Fall 2014 Trend: Swinging Sixties

Even in an industry that's fixated on the next new thing, fashion's finest frequently look to the past for inspiration. If the fall shows were any inclination, we have plunged head-first into a sixties revival.

Though each brand has their unique way of defining the sixties, clean silhouettes and standout accessories were the underlying links for this marcotrend. At Gucci, Frida Giannini paired tailored jackets in baby hues with tinted sunglasses and knee-high python boots. Giannini's daytime-approved looks were perfectly balanced with several embellished minis that any aspiring factory girl would wear. On the subject of sparkle, Miu Miu's collection of metal appliqué on streamlined silhouettes, which were occasionally layered underneath plastic coats, would make even the strictest minimalist envision herself at one of Austin Powers's parties. And who could forget Hedi Slimane's array of sequined semi-shift dresses and shimmery boots at Saint Laurent? A major fashion month moment. But rest assured, style savants: this sixties revival isn't synonymous with sparkle. Valentino's fall line offered capes in versatile neutrals, mod patchwork prints and collared dresses in poppy pigments. However, it was Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli's use of op-art polka dots that made this collection sing. 

But perhaps that biggest sixties moment was none other than Nicolas Ghesquière's debut at Louis Vuitton. A far cry from Marc Jacobs's frills-filled parting collection, Ghesquière's take on this trend is more subdued than fall's alternatives. Sleek jackets, a-line skirts and feminine dresses are mixed with leathers, funky pattern combinations, and tough Chelsea boots. Whether you're craving to be Vuitton cool or opting for opulence, this sixties resurgence covers all points on the sartorial spectrum.

Gucci Look 5

Miu Miu Look 39

Saint Laurent Look 35

Valentino Look 3

Louis Vuitton 23

While a full look may be too reminiscent of Valley of the Dolls to be a jumping off point for this trend, sixties-inspired separates are undeniably wearable. An a-line skirt would be very au courant with a shearling-lined moto jacket, while a usually retro neck-tie blouse can look extremely Parisian with a fitted trouser and modest heel. Or channel your inner Edie Sedgwick with an unapologetically fierce (faux) fur jacket. But if you have a penchant for accessories, there are loads of retro shoes and purses to mesh into your 2014-approved wardrobe. While an up-to-there boot perfectly encapsulates mod squad style, a sleek Chelsea boot or ladylike stacked pump are equally appropriate (and chic) alternatives. And when it comes to bags, boxier is better.  Compact, fuss-free and undeniably stylish, the boxy bag is the perfect way to infuse some swinging sixties into an otherwise current outfit.

1. Ted Baker 2. Mark Cross 3. Acne Studios 4. Gucci 5. Marc Jacobs 6. Roger Vivier 7. Marco de Vincenzo 8. Saint Laurent

Will you be welcoming a sixties revival this fall? Sound off below.

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Fall 2013: Trendy Tartan

Let's play a quick round of word association, shall we? When you think of the word "plaid," there's a good chance "lumberjack," "school girl," or "blasé hipster" comes to mind. This fall, designers are gifting us with a new word to associate with plaid: chic. Um, what? The notoriously macho pattern is revitalized with sleek, feminine, and ultra-sexy silhouettes as well as unexpected fabrics (and by unexpected fabrics, I obviously mean no flannel). It seems as if the sartorial table has turned, as tartan is no longer something you throw on when you're craving a lazy day ensemble. Instead, plaid is for tastemakers who want to make a statement.

Stella McCartney

                                                          Céline

Fausto Puglisi

Moschino

Saint Laurent

Whether you're ready to rock head-to-toe tartan or prefer starting of small with a punch of plaid, this trend has something for every style savant. Though a red/black combo is the most universal color palette for plaid, put your brave face on and  spice up your wardrobe with tartan in a creamy grey or shocking yellow. If you're easing into this trend, couple some printed shoes or a plaid bag with a monochromatic ensemble in a neutral hue-- black, white, grey, or cream are fabulous options. Though tops and skirts in this zesty pattern are on trend, life's too short not to embrace this trend to the fullest. If my inspirational words failed to persuade you, sporting a completely plaid ensemble prevents an embarrassing "naughty schoolgirl" moment. Perhaps I'm a little too obsessed with Céline's fall collection, but my favorite way to sport this trend is with this jaw-dropping plaid jacket. Two amazing trends in one outfit? So major. 

Moschino dress / Harvey Faircloth dress / Elizabeth and James metallic silver shirt / Roksanda Ilincic tweed coat / Alaïa skirt / Lightweight cotton pants / Alice + Olivia alice olivia skirt / Cole Haan pumps / Joie shoes / Marc by Marc Jacobs plaid purse / Comme des Garçons plaid handbag

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