Major trends seen during New York Fashion Week

NOORI CHISHTI ’17

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

This year’s New York Fashion Week hasn’t been regarded as one of the best; however, there are still noteworthy Fall 2016 trends to consider. While many designers’ collections may have lacked innovation, one can clearly see some interesting allusions to past styles. For example, Anna Wintour recognized the continuation of overarching themes of menswear fabrics and sports influences. Similarly, it’s safe to say that fur (whether faux or real) is here to stay.

As far as major trends go, it is easy to see that velvet is the fabric of the season. The material, which was all over the runway, often makes you think of 90’s slip dresses. For Fall 2016, we’ll be seeing a lot of velvet in long and delicate silhouettes.

While we’ve been seeing a lot of the off the shoulder tops recently, for next Fall, expect to see this staple adapted as the one-arm-top.  This interesting asymmetric design was seen in five different shows – A Moi, Herve Leger, Rodarte, ADEAM, and Self Portrait.

Quite a few of this year’s collections are working with a classic grey plaid. While this may seem like a dated and somewhat boring print to work with, designers have made it more exciting by applying it to interesting cuts and silhouettes.  For example, Carolina Herrera’s collection showcased a gray plaid midi dress, with a deep v-neck.

An interesting reoccurring piece that made an appearance throughout NYFW is the schoolgirl jumper. Reminiscent of the prep school uniforms that many of us remember having to wear, the jumper is a major trend for Fall 2016. However, these are not the same jumpers you may have been forced to wear, as designers are using them with longer silhouettes.

A rather surprising occurrence on this year’s NYFW runways was the use of brighter colors, specifically pinks and yellow. One can see this in the light pink Delpozo jacket, as well as yellow turtleneck, presented by both Brock Collection and Ulla Johnson. It’s refreshing that designers are choosing to interject bright hues into the fall collections – a welcome contrast from dark, cold weather hues.

Gloves similarly made an appearance on the runways. Perfect for the chilly weather of fall in New England, but what makes the gloves for 2016 interesting is their ornate nature. These gloves are over the top, with floral accents from Delpozo, sheer material from Marc Jacobs, beading from Oscar de la Renta, and ruffles from Rodarte.

The classic navy overcoat also seems to be making its way back as a staple. Working in menswear fabrics, these coats are versatile and elegant.  Appearing in calf, as well as longer ankle lengths, these coats continue with the nautical trends that we’ve been seeing pre-fall. You can see variations of this coat from Tibi, Tommy Hilfliger, Coach, and Valentino.

One of the edgier trends spotted on the runways is the presence of metal details, which we’ll interestingly be seeing on edgier and more demure brands, such as Ji Oh, Alexander Wang, Calvin Klein, Michael Kors. A really beautiful example of a piece that showcases metal details is the Michael Kors dress modeled by Kendall Jenner.

It seems that pinstriped suits are no longer reserved for the mafia. Designers, including Marissa Webb, Assembly, Calvin Klein, and Tibi, worked with pinstriped suiting. This is a style that is universally flattering, as it slims and lengthens any body type. Not to mention, the androgynous style has been something that we’ve seen through many different trends for Fall 2016.

It seems that the love of leather that we’ve been seeing is here to stay. Continuing with the focus on leather that was so prominent last fall, the classic trench coat gets an edgy update this season. Proenza Schouler, Trademark, Lacoste, Beaufille, and Simon Miller were among others who showcased a patent leather trench coat at NYFW. This is a raincoat that is both chic and functional with a modern twist.

Another continuation of a major trend from last year is the use of fur, both faux and real. Though fur had become much more prominent last fall, for 2016, we will be seeing a lot more statement furs. Fur no longer will appear in more demure ways. Expect large, thick furs, even in bold colors and prints. Take it as your moment to channel your inner Cruella de Vil.

Continuing with the theme of fur, fur accessories similarly reappear for Fall 2016. For example, expect to see more fur soles. However, designers have been laying these fur soles in a new way. What makes this season’s fur accessories noteworthy is the asymmetrical draping technique used by Brock Collection, Katie Ermilio, Tome, and Diane von Furstenberg.

As you can see, the styles from NYFW for Fall 2016 may not have been the most creative. That being said, there are definitely interesting trends to work with and integrate into different aspects of your wardrobe.