On the runways this fashion week in New York, we can find a lot of similarities in the direction that designers from all over the world are focusing on.  Color concept is huge for Fall 2011. Out are the dreary blacks and grey hues that are usually captured for fall and winter.  Thank goodness!!  Bright and creamy naturals and overt tones of vibrant shades such as orange and yellow are high on the totem pole. Drape, flow and textures of fabrics are of utmost importance.

Eye popping patterns and multi blended textures, such as seen by Alexander Wang’s multi fibrous poncho, made up of a blend angora and satin are eye catching and eclectic in nature, yet have a very soft appeal overall.  Suede and leather are also famously textured blends; as seen by some of the richly toned dresses that the Jill Stuart models were sporting.  Metallics are even back, sometimes seeing metallic tights and jackets paired with tweed and richly surfaced dresses and skirts.

Another big trend is layering looks for a complete outfit.  While layering has never been out of season per se, there are new ways to layer, such as using lightweight, easy wear knit and woven dresses, paired with long flowing cardigans and hefty parkas, as seen on Joseh Altuzzara’s fall line.

Layering in several lengths is also huge; like some of the very chunky and thickly ribbed knits with much shorter length ponchos as featured in some of Derek Lam’s Fall 2011 looks. Layers of silk tops with cardigan inspired blazers, layering outwear such as heavy sweaters with a multitude of scarves, full rib knit gloves and hats were seen over and over and a great focus on outerwear to really make an look absolute are definitely the new concentration.

Unfinished hems are also all the rage yet again, as seen on Victoria Beckham’s draped sweater and woven blend dress.  Giving edges a very frayed, worn in and shabby chic kind of look is paired with beautiful quality fabrics like silk and satin.  Classic, easy, broken in wear meets couture.

Bold and zesty patterns are also everywhere! Between mosaic type prints, or nature inspired ones such as Jill Stuart’s fox and owl printed dresses with environmentally inspired hues of orange, browns and light blues, you will find that character and personality in these designs are definitely coming to life. Fringe is back and done in a sexy way, as we can see from the pairing of a sheer chiffon fringe top and a risqué high slit skirt by Diane von Furstenberg that was done so well it was even pictured on the front of Monday’s WWD.

Stay tuned for more updates on the fall looks and inspirations as I continue to peruse the shows, watching ever so closely the runways and trend looks to keep you up to date with your wardrobe.

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