Bring on the night

In trying to see what the trends are going to be for dresses this Autumn and Winter, it’s always tempting to see differences between the fashion houses as red herrings, trying to lead the unwary and the gullible down fashion paths that lead to sniggers behind the back and claims of a fashion faux pas by the fashionistas. But a variation, even a significant variation in the interpretation of what’s “in” for a season can be thrilling and turn heads for the right reasons. But it’s a tightrope to be walked. Go too far off the edge of the fashion colours and designs, and you’ll come a cropper. The safe bets for your Autumn into Winter wardrobe will be to go for sumptuous and ornate fabrics. Forget about austerity (well, put it to the back of your mind) and instead feel the lushness of velvet, the tickle of lace and damask- and the richness of deep colours. Big floppy hats will definitely be a requirement for the well-dressed lady. Also be prepared for a cape revolution. Capes are going to be swishing around all the major cities. Tweed, or something more flamboyant, but don’t be caught without one in your collection! As for the barnet, ornate accessories will be the order of the season. Jewelled hairbands and slides will be just the ticket. Even sparkly elastic to have your hair in a bun or bunches. Get yourself a bright blue or red humble Kirby grip and just make sure your hair is pinned, tied, clipped or swept into place with chic adornments.

While on the head, what about the eyes? Well, we’ll be looking for some drama here- ruby red, peacock blue and emerald green will clinch it for you. Beyond that, an arresting blend of gold, purple and green will create a classic autumnal smoky eye. A wash of matte tangerine shadow provided a modern take on autumnal make-up, and maybe some electric blue mascara? Don’t forget that the belt-cinched waist is a must. Whether a wide belt to catch the eye, or a subtle skinny snake belt to emphasise the waist, you’ll be expected to belt up! It may be that you already have a suitable belt from a few seasons ago- I hope you didn’t throw it out! If you’ve been watching the catwalks at the fashion shows you may have detected something going on about black and navy blue. Also a lot of Maxi length dresses and skirts. We shouldn’t be surprised about this. Dress length and the state of the economy have been entwined for many decades. Longer hemlines are a sure sign of bad times. Known as “The Hemline Index” it’s been a reference point since the Great depression in 1926 to indicate the state of the economy. 

Hemlines have never been so low. Just take a peek at celebrities such as Victoria Beckham and Christina Aguilera. They have been wearing skirts 33inches below the knee! Compare this with good times of the 1960s, the time of the creation of the mini skirt and the later nineties where the economy boomed and 18in skirts. There was a rationale for this behaviour in the past. Simply put, when times were good you could show off your more expensive hosiery with short skirts. In times of recession, the last thing you wanted people to see were your cheap stockings, so down came the hemlines! Finally, that ubiquitous book, 50 Shades of Grey, seems to be influencing everything, including the world of fashion. That doesn’t mean you wear grey (you clearly haven’t read the book!) but you make sure you have a lot of leather in your dress- either as part of the design, or in the form of leather accessories such as jigsaw belts, ethnic necklaces and chokers. Click here for autumn dresses! Let me know what you think of these warehouse dresses girls - the leather one is definitely my favourite. Have a great week, I'll let you know what other Autumn looks I find! ♥