Fashion has never been immune to the realities of life. Do we sometimes prefer to lean into the fantasy on the runway rather than face all that exists outside of it? Of course. But it will find its way in. As it should. Whether that’s in a moment of silence for Ukraine at Armani or the more in-your-face Armageddon that showed at Balenciaga - now more than ever the fashion industry is reacting to the world in all its dichotomies. Which isn’t to say that part of that does not also provide the visual escape hatch. From a return to the art of feminine dressing as a response to so many months in sweatpants, to robe coats as self-care, to equestrian vibes that help get us all back into nature, see how the trends are mirroring our world now - or making it all a little prettier, and glitzier, to help the collective deal.

Robe Life

As we’ve all embraced getting dressed for work and parties again, there is part of all of us still yearning for #robelife. Speak to that inner cozy child in coats that wrap you up, go big, and, yes, sometimes go home again.

Modern Femininity

Of course, there is no one definition of femininity; it’s entirely subjective. But the mood dominating the runways is one of light colors, perhaps a feather, something diaphanous and lingerie inspired. In other words, we know it when we see it.

Back to Black

Speaking of parties, evening, and after dark, the designer message is clear: It’s time to get back to black. But before you let intrusive thoughts of anything simple cloud your judgment, take note that these looks include some capital-S sparkle. Layer on the paillettes and shimmer like the night sky.

Just the Highlights

The color story happening on the fall runways is pulled directly from your top desk drawer—borrowing the unabashed brights of your favorite highlighters. Whether you want to make an impact in bright yellow, magenta, or green—this trend isn’t for shrinking violets.

The Long Way

The silhouette of the moment is extra long and close to the body—though not uncomfortably so. It’s less about showing every curve and more about creating a long line. After so many seasons of baggy and oversized-only proportions, it feels right on time.

Hemlines Hit The Floor

After the rise—literally and figuratively—of the Miu Miu miniskirt, the only natural evolution was revolution. Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton, Sacai, and more pushed longer, floor-sweeping lengths for fall 2022. For those who need a little extra height, Rick Owens and Altuzarra have the platforms to boot.

Shoulders Make the Suit

Oversize, bold-shoulder tailoring may have emerged on the catwalk several years ago, but brands from Balenciaga to Vetements are proving the look is still alive. At Louis Vuitton and Valentino, blazers were pumped up to gigantic proportions while Off-White’s touching tribute to Virgil Abloh included Karen Elson in a Virg-ified Le Smoking…but of course Saint Laurent had its own big time version by Anthony Vaccarello. Think of these bulky blazers as a new way to take up space.

Sources:

https://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/trends/g3913...

https://www.vogue.com/article/fall-2022-fashion-we...