Fall 2013 Fashion Report: The Blues, the Plaid, the 50s and the Short of it

Something about Fall 2013 fashion this year made me think of a wedding day. Let’s take the biggest trends – something old (50s skirts, 70s plaid), something new (gilded dresses, lingerie trend), something borrowed (menswear – tuxedos, pant trend), and, perhaps the biggest – something blue – the cobalt hues. Here’s my list of the top Fall 2013 apparel trends that you’ll want to wear.

The Blues

I’m not sure if it was the double denim trend that started it all or the bright pheasant-like cobalts on the runways, but blue is the hot color this season. Which shade of blue exactly? Many celebrities donned the cobalt blue and designer shows also featured the Pantone color for 2013 – the harmonious emerald. Blue also lends itself well to layering – another popular trend for the season. Some examples of blues done well: Loft blue pants, blue pullover from Banana Republic, and dark denim from numerous locations. What I love about the cobalt blue is its optimism and positive energy and that’s a nice groundwork for the season.

Black & White

It seems we’re going for more minimalism in life, simplifying, downsizing, organizing. What better way to express it than with the clarity of black and white. Designers favored both monochromatic white and (separately) monochromatic black, but it was still a strong statement when pairing white and black, and plenty did that. This is perhaps one of my favorite trends of the season, for its boldness and elegance at the same time. Some of my favorites include the black and white striped sweaters and tops from Express and White House Black Market, the white knee-length skirts and black trench coats from Calvin Klein, and white flouncy skirts from Banana Republic. Remember it’s not just the solid color but a variety of patterns – chevron, stripe and other.

Kicked up Plaid

Plaid weaves itself in the fall year after year. This fall it’s nothing ladylike but rather rebellious. Two options for fall: either paired with another plaid of a contrasting shade (as in Celine runway show or a witty Clarks print ads) or combined with rocker-like accessories (spikes, chunky jewelry, etc). Mix a Dolce & Gabbana tweet plaid skirt with an also-in leather moto jacket and you’ve nailed the fall plaid.

Wide-Leg Pants

So many celebrities have been seen in wide-leg pants lately – and not just solid colors but prints of every kind. I love the Armani long and wide flowing pants. Erin Micklow (@Erin_Micklow), wardrobe stylist and image consultant for men & women with a practical, no non-sense philosophy  has a few suggestions on how to wear this trend:

While I’m a huge fan of skinny jeans, sometimes it’s nice to mix it up. Wide-leg pants are a great, easy way to switch up you’re look. When wearing a wide-leg pant, be sure to keep your tops and jackets fitted and tight. The classic rule definitely applies here, that when doing one end big, do the other end small to balance out your outfit.

The Long and the Full Skirt

There is a certain flouncy effect to the Fall 2013 skirts – a dance-like effervescence. Many designers, including my favorite example – Givenchy – brought in long, almost ankle-length, skirts – a bold, bright statement. At the same time, the 50s full skirt will be a favorite of many women, thanks to its flattering effect.

The short of it

Mini skirt is one of the chicest Fall items. Coming in a variety of styles and fabrics – flouncy, pencil-straight, tweed, lace or fur. Some of my favorites are the black bouncy skirts from Banana Republic and Chanel.

Another short item that’s in for Fall is a moto-jacket. Moto leather, just like plaid, is coming in season after season, becoming a staple for Fall. Wear with skinny jeans or a long skirt for a more romantic effect.

Cozy Sweater

Do you know what’s a great pairing for a moto jacket this Fall? A cozy sweater and dark denim. Comfy pullovers graced many runways in cashmere, wool and knit, and the sweater dress was present too. “Designers brought back the sweater dress for Fall 2013 and shapewear that will control your midsection is key”, says Ruben Soto of www.Hourglassangel.com. “A waist cincher is your best bet to achieve an hourglass silhouette. Look for garments featuring a PowerLatex core to slim your waist dramatically and immediately to pull off the often form-fitting nature of this style.” You’ll also be seeing a lot of fur this Fall, and not only in apparel but also in accessory accents, but I see it as a less wearable trend.

Animal Print

Prints are typically a welcome sign each Fall and this season we’ll be seeing a lot of leopard spots, zebra print and snake skin. And the more colorful and layered, the better. Don’t be afraid to show your wild side!

The Red Coat

Some will argue that gray is the hot coat color for Fall, and seeing the beautiful long gray coats from Stella McCartney or Alexander Wang, I would almost agree. However, I’m seeing red. Red coats from Dolce & Gabbana, from Prada, Versace. I think along with the boldness of blues, the monochrome of black & white, or even paired with the animal print, red coat is a true stand-out – whether it’s A-line or straight.