A Year in Review: 2009 Trends Report

[My second article for SJFW!]

As the world slowly pulled itself out of an economic recession, cutting edge trends dominated the Autumn/Winter runways in 2009. Over the knee boots were the must have during this season, while fashion trend setters found their boots creeping up a little further wearing thigh highs. Leather clothing and military fashions ruled the runways as well during the colder months of last year. Hermes even pulled off a full leather jumpsuit as part of their aviation-themed collection while Victoria Beckham went all out and paired it with fur. Ripped denim, tights and stockings went along with the whole rocker chic look of Autumn/Winter 2009. Multiple rips added to the desired, edgy allure of the season as designer Alexander Wang incorporated several pieces in his collection, while Gossip Girl Taylor Momsen rocked the trend as well. Not one of my favorites, but a trend to say the least, capes and cloaks were spotted on the street and runways in 2009. Capes. Say the word, and images of masked superheroes mid-flight immediately pop into many people's minds. Nevertheless, designer Guy Laroche created several gothic cloak pieces and YSL’s take on the cape trend was incredibly distinct. During Paris Fashion Week, an abundance of models were noticed wearing this trend, such as Anna Selezneva rocking a bright blue cape.

The tail end of winter has disappeared and in its place came spring/summer 2009 with a new and exciting wardrobe. Androgynous looks dictated street and runway styles all around the world allowing women to steel from their boyfriend’s closets. One of my favorite trends of the season, Boyfriend blazers and denim created a more relaxed but fashionable look last year and thankfully, the trend remains today. Celebrities such as Rihanna and Twilight star, Kristen Stewart took advantage of the relaxed trend. Beautifully designed one shouldered tops, dresses and bikinis were spotted last summer during everyone’s daily dose of the sun, permitting women to show off some skin and to cool off of course. Actresses Jessica Alba and Gwyneth Paltrow chose to show off one of the sexiest and sensual fashion accessory, the shoulders. As any fashionista will notice, history and fashion go hand in hand, so don’t be surprised to find out that Grecian inspired clothing was a key trend in spring/summer 2009. It’s essentially an obvious flow from the one shoulder trend and an evolution from the 1920’s flapper trend. Whether they were the traditional maxi-dress or short little numbers, pair the flowly dress with gladiator sandals and an instant Greek goddess look is achieved! Designers, Valentino and Elle Sabb incorporated great pieces in their Spring/Summer collection.In addition to the Grecian inspired dresses, a whole range of ethnic and exotic trends broke onto the fashion runway scene. From turbans, to flowing kaftans, to tribal-infused prints and creative African adventure suits, designers were drawing inspiration from every corner of the globe. Designers from Christopher Kane to Paul Smith incorporated a strong use of leopard and cheetah print tops paired with geometric skirts in earthy colors.

2009 fashions explored a bevy of different and creative looks, leaving a lot of room for expression of personal style. A lot of the year’s collections came from the past; the Grecian inspired dresses, the 80’s ripped denim and leather jackets of the 50’s to name a few. I can honestly say that I loved both autumn/winter and spring/summer 2009 collections! Aside from the whole cape trend, each look provoked me to max out my credit card in order to rock every style. However, my favorite look was definitely the 80’s rocker trend that made its way back to runways last year, allowing me to wear my super high boots, ripped denim and bomber jacket. Even though fashion is known to evolve, I hope that some of these trends are incorporated into upcoming 2010 fashions!