London Fashion Week versus New York Fashion Week

The end of Fashion Week in New York meant the beginning of another –– Fashion Week in London. As designers send their latest masterpieces down the runway we left here to analyze, compare and add some more trends to our grand theory for Spring of 2012.

Metallic fabrics are a hit on both New York and London runways, a bold statement for those who want an edge in their suits, dresses and t-shirts ensembles. On the runway we see metallic throughout the entire collection at Giles, on layers of draped fabrics at Todd Lynn, mixed with sequins at Sass & Bide and on shimmery skirts at Danielle Scutt. This metallic look adds a bit of fun to the designer’s aesthetic on the runway and a great way to stand out.

The tribal sensation that consumes much of the stores as we shop for fall this year is here to stay for yet another season. These bold, exotic patterns are mesmerizing on the runway are seen in a variety of forms in many collections, like the House Of Dereon and Burberry Prorsum. Tribal is also the inspiration behind a very futuristic jumpsuit at Peter Pilitto and the many party dresses at Matthew Williamson.

In both London and New York designers take the runway with a more sporty edge by using mesh fabrics –– like Alexander Wang, Vera Wang, Cynthia Rowley and Tibi had during New York Fashion Week. Wang’s collection most utilized mesh by threading it through his entire sportswear collection, and even on his headscarves. For London Fashion week Craig Lawrence did just the same as Wang, and meshed up his entire collection of long dresses, tights and cover-ups. In London the House of Holland also embeds a lot of mesh shirts and cover-ups, while Jaeger London plays with a lot of cutouts that has a similar appearance of mesh.

There were just as much of a tropical floral vibe in London as there was in New York. Designers like Erdem and Temperley London had flowers from top to bottom in simple, loose silhouettes. At Christopher Kane you can see flowers in a variety of different dress shapes and cut-outs. Ashish uses large, bold flowers to make a statement as Matthew Williamson ties light, tropical florals into his bohemian look.

And we can’t forget the snakeskin that seemed to slither down the runway in an array of different combinations. From the head to toe snakeskin jumpsuits at Maria Grachvogel to the snakeskin embellished suspenders at the House of Holland –– this is the “it” animal print for 2012. Designers at (TopShop) Unique and Fashion East also incorporated snakeskin into their collections.

Once again, Fashion Week in both London and New York has opened the door for fashionistas to mix-and-match their favorite trends for next Spring. And remember, have fun with fashion –– just as the designers do on the runway each year.

By Ashley Caputo  

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Posted by Ashley Caputo at 10:28 AM
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