What's In At New York Fashion Week 2011 - Part 2 - Women Campus
Michael Kors, NYFW Fall RTW Collection 2011
LOFT Convertible Halter Tube Knit Dress, $49.50
ASOS Skinny Strap Chiffon Maxi Dress, $89.65
Varying lengths of skirts and dresses with smocked waists seal the deal between beauty and comfort. McDonald says, "Fun, loose-fitted dresses made a debut in a variety of different collections this season. Michael Kors was no exception with this halter-style dress."
Celebrity stylist Kithe Brewster advises to buy a sheer fabric maxi dress and pair it with a jacket or cardigan, making it wearable now through fall. "It's all about the '70's," Brewster says. "Some of the best looks were ones where it was taken to new heights. We're seeing a lot of long dresses, even for day, and it's great to see the maxi again."
As always, layers are key and the loose fit is forgiving, which Brewster, a Duke Diet participant, counts as a big plus. Who doesn't want to look good and enjoy the comfort of a flowing top or dress at the same time?
In Military Fashion
L.A.M.B. , NYFW Fall RTW Collection 2011
Arden B. Ribbed Collar Leatherette Jacket, $59
BCBG Max Azria BCBGeneration Belted Pocket Skirt, $49
Here's a salute to the military style already seen this spring. A few of Gwen Stefani's models marched down the runway in military fashion for her L.A.M.B. collection. For fall, McDonald says, "The military trend is here to stay, and designer Gwen Stefani incorporated this into her collection with some fun pieces like the jacket worn in this particular look."
Naturally, the stand-by colors to signal the trend will be shades of brown, khaki and sage. Like the other looks, the military trend hails from the '70s, but this one was actually used to protest the war. To join the ranks of military fashion (sans protest), look for a well-constructed bomber or leather jacket with zippers and straps. For a work setting, try to find a double-breasted blazer with large brass buttons. Complete any army-esque look with black lace-up boots.
Fur Frenzy
Rachel Zoe, NYFW Fall RTW Collection 2011
eDressMe Bright White Faux Fur Vests by Alberto Makali, $99
Urban Outfitters Urban Renewal Vintage Faux Fur Coat, $88
Faux fur makes another appearance for fall. McDonald says, "Fur detailing was shown a lot this season, and Rachel Zoe showed it in her collection with this faux fur vest. A signature piece I presume!"
Suzanne Kopulos, stylist and founder of Garmental.com, shares McDonald's enthusiasm, saying, "Pull your inspiration from the runway! An oversized fur coat paired with denim or trousers is perfect for spring and fall." Fur also has that vintage feel, pulling from the '50s and, of course, the '70s. Express your soft and fuzzy side this spring and fall with a fabulous faux fur coat or vest.
Sources:
Kithe Brewster, fashion editor/celebrity stylist
Noelle Cellini, owner and personal stylist of My Best Foot Forward, located in Chicago
Suzanne Kopulos, stylist and founder of Garmental.com
Colin T. McDonald, celebrity/fashion stylist and commentator
Wemi Opakunle, designer, stylist and wardrobe consultant
