New York Fashion Week Fall 2012: Trend recap

Fashion TrendsTags: fall 2012, fashion week trends, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week

When I embarked on my journey to Mercedes Benz Fashion Week earlier this month, I had my eyes peeled for a few trends: boxy blazers, straight trousers, and shades of mint and lavender.

This fashionista must admit, she was a bit far off. Apologies, dear reader. But with every Fashion Week season comes a few surprises. I was pretty spot on with my straight pants prediction, but I won’t bore you with photos of plain black pants (that often looked saggy and baggy at the top).

Here are some of the trends that stood out from the crowd:

Left: Carmen Marc Valvo by Brian Ach for Getty Images. Center: Carlos Miele by George Chinsee for WWD. Right: Chadwick Bell by Mark von Holden for Getty Images.

Velvet: This creamy, heavy fabric appeared on short and long dresses alike. It might help you stay warm going from cab-to-soiree in winter, but this fashionista doubts the comfort level that would result from wearing a full-velvet dress.
Hardwear: Studs, zippers, buttons, chains, you name it! Designers got creative with non-fabric materials this season.
Fur: We could debate the pros and cons of fur in fashion all day; but it doesn’t change the fact that designers used fur for both entire garments and also trimmings and accessories.

Right: JCrew by Dario Cantatore. Center: Richard Chai—Love by Mike Coppola. Right: Mara Hoffman by Frazer Harrison. All via Getty Images.

Primary colors: Black and gray are always fall season favorites, but primary colors—bright blues and reds, particularly—were favorites for many designers this season.
Stripes: You can take your pick next fall from gigantic color blocks or thin, multicolored stripes.
Nature-inspired prints: Some designers were inspired by geographic regions, and some by specific animals or plants. Whatever the inspiration, get ready for big, bold, beautiful patterns.
Hats: Get out your brimmed hats, ladies and gents. You can wear them beyond the costume party this year.