Fall 11: Architecture

TopShop Unique, Etro, Akris, Moscino Cheap and Chic

Every season there is a quirky conversational theme that seems to crop up in multiple lines at once. For Fall 11, that theme is architecture, especially iconic buildings. Perhaps fashion designers are in need of a little travel? Or are they digging into the history of places for inspiration?

Spring 11: Photo-based Florals

Jean Paul Gaultier, Isaac Mizrahi, Akris, Jil Sander. background: Pattern People

Photo-based florals were a strong presence on the runways, as well as the photographic fruit and interiors that we wrote about previously. As direct digital printing on fabric becomes more accessible, the freedom to use unlimited color and detail opens up creative possibilities. We especially loved Akris's oversize petals and irises, and Isaac Mizrahi's muted blues. Jil Sander's giant flower on the waist went along with Marc Jacob's big waist embellishments and color blocking. Gaultier used palms tree photos (not strictly a floral but close enough) to create a tropical jungle effect.

Spring 11: Fruit!

Stella McCartney, Wunderkind (x2), Prada

In a bizarre fashion week twish (ha ha,) fruit prints burst onto the runways of not one, but 3 separate designers in Paris. Prada's sketches of bananas was vintagey and tropical, while Stella's and Wunderkind's prints were photo-based and printed digitally. Stella's citrus was collaged symmetrically. Wunderkind's cherries and equatorial fruits were tossed randomly with checks that look like picnic tablecloths. All these fruities were loud, punchy, and served up warm, with a clever wink.