Fall fashion 2008: Season of change
In the scope of current events, fashion is usually deemed a matter of relatively little importance. But the economic downturn must be on the minds of fashion designers, because this fall, frivolity was eschewed in favor of a more somber palette and minimalist silhouettes. At runway shows in London, Paris and Milan, the general mood was dark, harsh and militaristic. Gothic streaks of black ruled the catwalks, while sharp military-inspired silhouettes were also popular.
However, some trends point to hints of hope. Nature, most notably feathers, plays a part in many fall collections. Plumage is appearing on everything from gowns to coats. Plaid is also a strong trend this year.
The retro trend continues, with nods to the flapper styles of the 1920s and the uniform silhouettes of the 1940s -- times of economic renewal and war, respectively. It's a mixed message that shows more than anything how most of us view the future: with a mixture of hope and dread. On these pages, see how those conflicting impulses have been interpreted by Twin Cities fashion designers.
True to form
Trend: Uniforms.
Designer: Ivan Idland. The Montana native has been designing for eight years, but his uniform-inspired designs hit the Minneapolis runways just this year. The self-taught designer describes his aesthetic as "a modern take on classic cuts with original color and fabric combinations."
Accessories trend: Feathers.
Accessories designer: Catlin Weston. A hairstylist by trade, Weston began creating her feather hats and hair accessories this summer. She calls her headpieces "vintage with a twist on modern-day beauty."
Related events: Idland is part of the SCENEaSOTA fashion show Thursday. Bombalurina jewelry will be featured in the "A Deep Romance" trunk show Sunday.
- Dress by Ivan Idland, $175 at Cliché
- green glass/yellow citrine sparrow necklace & yellow citrine cherub bracelet by Bombalurina, $68 and $80 at Design Collective
- hat by Catlin Weston, price available by request at catlin@mezzaninesalon.com
