Fashion Flashback: Red Velvet in Autumn Winter 2010

There was a trend back in 2010, which caught my eye, that didn't seem able to transcend the numerous runways upon which it was showcased. These included the collections of designers such as Alexander Wang, Antonio Berardi and Altuzarra to name just a few. The trend was red velvet. Although velvet, generally in black, was reincarnated in various forms across the high street, I didn't see a red version crop up anywhere and I can see why. While I was instantly drawn to it on the runway, I struggled to envision myself in any form of outfit comprising red velvet that didn't draw up connotations of an unusually modest Mrs Santa. Red velvet on the catwalk or the red carpet looks tricky enough, but on the high street? It's less than doubtful.

Alexander Wang Fall 2010 and Altuzarra Fall 2010

Backstage Altuzarra Fall 2010

However, scouring the web today I came across a red velvet item that launched me right back to those collections of Autumn/Winter 2010. New in to Topshop this week is a burgundy playsuit with full length chiffon sleeves, which really play up to red velvet's more Medieval associations. It seems to be only the playsuit style which draws it back to the present day.

Topshop Burgundy Playsuit £45

I also recalled some celebrities who have tried and tested red velvet with varying levels of success. Katy Perry typically went all out with a fifties style dress that made me run a little further from the idea. However, just as Jason Wu accessoried a look with a simple burgundy velvet scarf back in 2010, the best styles take a 'less is more' approach. If I decide to try this out, I'm going to be looking to Chloe Moretz in McQ or Emma Stone in Chanel for my inspiration.

Chloe Moretz in McQ and Emma Stone in Chanel Resort

What do you think of red velvet? Would you or do you wear it?

Jason Wu Pre-Fall 2011

Oh, if only I could afford Jason Wu. Not the man himself, obviously, but his amazing designs, which epitomise everything I want to be wearing right now. From his uber-cool day-wear, to his stunning evening gowns and cocktail dresses, it's no exaggeration to say I'd be happy to own a wardrobe comprised entirely of his creations. 

From his Pre-Fall 2011 collection, the trousers are my favourite items. Strikingly cool with their slouchy width and sleek length, and just a hint of masculinity in their tailoring and military colour palette, they contrasted perfectly to luxe silk shirts in feminine hues of salmon pink and purple. The shirts, done up to the top button, were ever so slightly prim, while the long sleeve sweaters were cut to provide a sleek, elegant finish to the female form - the final flourish of lady-like sophistication that Wu does so well. 

Wu's AW11 collection was predominantly awash with elegant formal attire, and was amongst some of my favourite designers who showcased the monochrome trend, which will be approaching us in the upcoming season. The Pre-Fall 11 collection gave a clear nod to his main designs, again effortlessly merging the lines between femininity and masculinity in the strong tailoring paired with delicate detailing like the floral print on skirts, which gave the effect of houndstooth print from afar. 

I know a lot of people (including myself) don't always pay much attention to the Pre-Fall and Resort collections, but as Jason Wu proves, some of the best designs can be found in them. The evening gowns above are just beautiful, and are sure to be a hit with celebrities such as Diane Kruger and Alexa Chung, who are often seen in his designs.

What do you think of Jason Wu's Pre-Fall collection? Do you keep up with Pre-Fall and Resort?

http://www.thewstudio.com/

New York Fashion Week AW11 : My Top 5

My top shows from New York fashion week AW11.

What were your favourite collections over the past few days? Are you excited for London Fashion Week? I can't wait for Erdem.

P.S - I'm not sure how long this will be running for, but you can catch the Proenza Schouler show here.

Source: style.com

Jason Wu S/S '11

Click photos to enlarge.

The Highlights:

Sheer blouses, and high waisted trousers.

Stunning cobalt blue.

Turbans (surprisingly).

Beautiful evening dresses, with skirts that I can't adequately describe without seeing them in person.

Source: style.com