This is a season of multiple messages, and it’s no wonder, as the designers had a few things on their minds at the time they were designing the fall collections. It was definitely time to escape from the economic woes that were reaching epidemic proportions about this time last year.

As has been the case for the past year now, absent from the runway have been some of the more avant-garde and opulent creations. It’s still awkward to exhibit one’s affluence, even though designer customers still seek out and want to enjoy luxury. This remains a time for austerity through design. Some of the best designs this season – and no doubt priciest – are those created by designers who exercised such restraint by paring down a piece while utilizing fabrics and leathers so refined, perhaps only the wearer is aware of the high quality goods.

Ruching [fabric that is typically gathered into a ruffle or pleats] is easily one of the most important designer details of the season. Simple to look at, complex in design, ruching is a design motif that gives the look of “a little bit more” during a time when people are thinking of living with “a little bit less.” With this visual element, designers are signifying that life and fashion do go on and that their customers should still aspire to live in comfort. A little fashion along the way will help get over the tough times.

This season, the designers are time traveling us back to the eighties and the women’s power look. Though designers are telling their clientele it’s time to return to classic styling and tailoring, referencing the eighties as a point of stimulation, resulted in the creation of fashions in the present tense that will serve today’s modern sensibilities. Power messages this season are most prevalent in silhouette, primarily anything triangular with strong shoulders and a belted waist.

The power punch continues with an emphasis on looking tough. Motorcycle jackets, studded leather accessories, and even fringed bags will give a girl of any age that rebel spirit. Sometimes the toughness turns a bit more utilitarian, as in dressing in country tweed fabrics.

Many designers used pops of fluorescent color to highlight their collections, especially the use of ‘caution’ orange, a color most women won’t wear unless they’re incarcerated! Speaking of caution, beware of the trend to show lots of skin this season, or perhaps to shroud it beneath a swathe of mesh or lace. Sure, you’ll see it in the magazines this fall, but it could cost you at the office. Reserve looks like these for evenings out.

As more designers are consolidating their efforts, combining themes between women’s and men’s collections, it’s doubtful that some styles seen as feminine by today’s standards will become a hit on the men’s side anytime soon. So this season, look for puffy accents, in sleeves and skirts. And for evening, stand tall in a tulle dress. Fashion will rescue the damsel in distress.

Designing and managing your image is the secret science of your success.

Joseph Rosenfeld helps professional men and corporate workgroups create effective visual brands. Visit JosephRosenfeld.com for details.

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