Autumn/Winter 2011 Trend Report
Stylist and model, Chloe Arnold, takes 'Inside Jigsaw' readers through some of the key trends from the catwalk for the coming season. We have also highlighted some stylish pieces from our new collection, which will help you stay in vogue.
Time stands still for no one and that could not be more true in the world of fashion. Although summer is not over just yet, talk of Autumn/Winter is already starting to excite the trend savvy amongst us. Now don't get me wrong, summer is my favourite time of year; holiday romance, cocktails by the pool and seductive sunshine feeds my soul. However, I am also a sucker for winter woolies and wrapping up as the Autumnal chill leaves a bite in the air.
The Autumn/Winter collections allow you to show you true inner fashionista. Just as Jigsaw's latest campaign indicates, it is the perfect time to play around with different textures, colours and fabrics. I love to layer and feel cosy, whilst maintaining a sense of elegance.
Due to our unpredictable and notoriously grey climate, the statement 'less is more' does not necessarily apply in Fall. So channel your inner rebel, mix and match ladies, because this season is all about having fun!
So, what is in store for us all? The mod sixties swing remains a big player, along with geometric clashing patterns from the likes of Duro Olowu. Maintaining the summer tribal trends with graphic prints, as well as colour blocking – Balenciaga's ultraviolet trousers over a monochrome shift – are also highlights of the forthcoming season. Seventies bell bottoms were a prominent style on the catwalks and to top it all off, many of these fabulous trends are complemented by bouffant hairdos. Ladies; the Beehive is back.
For those wanting to tone down their inner hippy but remain true to the trends, psychedelic fur in bright and bold colours can add a splash of vibrancy to any outfit. Missoni showed us how to do it Italian style, with an array of furry rainbow shades.
The poncho and cloak/cape is back in a major way, but not a la Poncahontis. Think of it as an alternative to the winter coat, whist also providing a modern twist. DKNY perfected the look in a wearable and diverse way, meanwhile Jigsaw has a gorgeous Knitwear Poncho due for release later in the year.
The maxi is welcomed back for this season; a wardrobe staple piece and the master of hiding a multitude of sins. Whether it is empire line or fitted, full length works for day and night. You could go comfortable in jersey like Rodarte or pretty in silk like Alexander Wang, either way the results are magical. Jigsaw has a selection of mid to long length dresses perfect for those looking to follow this seemingly timeless trend.
Spot the difference this season with the sweetest pattern of all, the polka dot. Stella McCartney's dotty discs covering sheer tulle showed us 'butter wouldn't melt', with a hint of sexy. Diane Von Furstenburg layered the pattern with an air of sophistication. Jigsaw has put a unique twist on the trend and featured a hearts and club print, which was inspired by an original 1950's graphic.
Finally, for the more sophisticated lady in us, the tux is back. Tailoring in general is a beautiful way to mix the strength of masculinity, with the pure power of a woman. The suit featured heavily on the runway; Michael Kors showed us that men and women can look equally chic in this item by simultaneously showing us both collections.
Unisex looks are still going strong; just don't go all Posh and Becks on us when out on a date. After all, coordinating with your beau is not the idea. There is a fine line between masculine inspiration and dressing the same as your man. Note to self, circa Madonna donning it in her Vogue video, or more recently Alexa Chung; both look great and have got the 'tux fashion' just right.
