‘The Shape of Fall’ is at South Coast Plaza

Romantic frocks, sexy sophistication, textured fabrics and

glamour, glamour, glamour are key for fall.

Romance is returning full force with subtly colored blouses in

fragile, sheer fabrics embellished with lace and delicate embroidery.

Slinky bias-cut slip dresses and lively flapper-style dresses are

also reappearing to give a bit of Hollywood glamour from decades

past. The style is reminiscent of Jean Harlow’s heyday on the silver

screen. Gucci has charmeuse slip dresses destined to become modern

classics while Chanel is offering Jazz Age swingy dresses adorned

with fringe and attitude.

On the runway, globetrotting looks are bringing color and luxury

into the collections. Rather than sticking with Bohemian, the styles

are expanding to highlight other areas of the world. D&G; Dolce &

Gabbana created a “Swiss miss” look with richly embroidered skirts

and coats. An uncomplicated way to wear ethnic is in the ever-present

peasant look, which has staying power through fall updated with more

tailoring in blouses and skirts. Sheer fabrics abound but are also

expanding into knits and richer textures. The embroidery will include

florals as well as a more homespun, almost folkloric feel.

Sophistication is rampant in sexy shoes and accessories. Short

skirts with high heels might sound very ‘80s, but it’s also very

2002. Prada’s two-tone stiletto pumps and knee-high shiny black

calfskin boot are hits from the fashion runway. Boots simply refuse

to go out of style. Whether paired with short skirts or with long,

they are the season’s most effortless item. Bottega Veneta’s slouchy

leather boot and handbag add an elegant edge.

Rich, sensual fabrics are always welcome in the fashion world and

this season is adding a bit of drama to the mix. There is no other

suitable description for Louis Vuitton’s Inuit-inspired luxury coat

in beige felted wool and cashmere with fur edging. There was also a

sultry side to the fall collections with Chanel’s belted fur jackets,

as well as Christian Dior’s and Yves Saint Laurent’s nod to the

Forties with fur chubbies.

Luxury is also taking over the sporty chic set, with

sports-inspired pieces covering the fall runways. Juicy Couture is

upping the ante with cashmere jogging suits available at Traffic and

Emporio Armani has a sleek boxing-inspired option of white silk pants

under black silk shorts for a fashionable athletic vibe.

Adding a little glamour and luxury makes it simple to update

wardrobes this fall. This season’s rich choices make choosing the

only tough part of the job.

* Article provided by South Coast Plaza officials