Wikipedia Page en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fashion_Week
“it is just another excuse to plan a wardrobe overhaul.”
As the temperatures slowly begin to fall, and the bright green leaves loose their lustre whilst morphing into a myriad of gold and organs and reds – it is time to bring out the scarves and tights.
The onset of a new season needn’t get you down. In fact, it is just another excuse to plan a wardrobe overhaul. Not that we ladies need a reason to go shopping!
One of the hippest trends this autumn has to be the Tartan coat. Cavalli splashed all things checkered throughout his collection during the recent New York Fashion Week, and just recently, the queen of style herself – Gwen Stefani was spotted donning a fabulous red and black tartan coat, that would have had the most conservative of us doing the Highland Fling through Piccadilly Circus.
I for one, am not a fan of checkered of plaid clothing – for reasons unbeknownst to me, I equate the pattern with American lumberjacks. Nonetheless, I can see the desire of some designers to inject some fun and colour onto the catwalks, and transfer their designs t the streets. It does liven up our obsession as city slickers with all things grey and black!
However you decide to wear it, splashing it across your wardrobe from scarves and hats, to leggings and coats – there are cardinal rules when it comes to tartan. The basic rule being to keep it simple. Don’t mix your plaids and don’t mismatch the print with any floral or busy designs like paisley. Plaids look fabulous against plain colours and even better against black. Try a plaid pair of tights as an alternative to your regular black, to add some comic relief at your office this autumn.
Have fun with the print and always remember – less is more!
A trend I found to be über-cool during fashion week had to be layering. All big city girls know you need to be prepared for all weather conditions when you step out of the door each morning.
From piling long skirts over slouchy trousers and leggings, to long cardigans over finer cardigans and dresses, the look can be pretty tricky to perfect, so as not to look like a bag lady wearing every item of their attire.
For those sunnier autumn days, why not try a lighter and more feminine look by wearing dresses over skirts and organza blouses, or dresses teamed with flowy trousers. Jean Paul Gaultier executed the layer style through ultimate luxury, resulting in a very chic effect. At his show, he teamed a slinky black silk dress with a fine charcoal cashmere polo neck and tailored trousers, topped with a black jacket and scarf.
Though it may seem a perfect way to cover up lumps and bumps, be warned ladies – the style could actually exaggerate flaws. The secret to perfecting the look is all about colour and texture. Try complementing greys with earthy neutrals, clinching them together with a tan leather belt. It’s a fabulous way to experiment with your oversized belts and bags, and I cannot wait to flaunt this style this autumn.
Rain, rain go away! If you have recently found yourself ankle-deep in water, traipsing your way to work with soggy socks or tights – its time to invest in a pair of Wellies! You can pick up a pair of funky footwear for wet weather at just about any high street store, and a good quality pair will set you back anything from £15 to £30. Try match your vibrant choice with a corresponding umbrella – a sure fire way to liven up any muggy rainy day.
Ever wondered where the Wellington boot originated? The name gives an indication as to its derivation. In the 1800s, the First Duke of Wellington instructed his shoemaker to design a boot that was cut closely around the leg, and stopping about mid-calf. Very soon, the popular boot was dubbed “The Wellington” and the name has stuck ever since.
The boots quickly caught on with patriotic gentlemen eager to emulate their war hero. Considered fashionable and foppish in the best circles and worn by dandies of the time, they remained at the forefront of fashion for men of the period. At first, the boots were made of leather, until 1852 when Charles Goodyear and Hiram Hutchinson came up with a patent for a Wellington-type rubber boot. It thus became a functional necessity for farmers, miners, labourers and soldiers alike. By the end of the 2nd World War, the Wellington had become popular among men, women and children for wear in wet weather. The boot has now developed into a far roomier shoe with a thick sole and rounded toe.
Back home in South Africa, miners designed a dance with their Wellington boots, which has become a global phenomenon – known as the Gumboot Dance. The boots are embellished with bells, so that they ring as the dancers stamp on the ground. Many of the steps and routines are parodies of the officers and guards who controlled the mines and workers’ barracks. So wear your Wellies and wear them proud Saffa’s!
