Fashion Moods for Autumn 2006 & Winter 2007

For Autumn Winter 2006, the key fashion trends hinge on designers moving away from the ultra feminine looks of recent seasons. Their autumn 2006 range incorporates the C21st layered look, where different textures and a more sombre palette play against each other. This is combined with interesting manipulation of shapes. The new volume is dramatic, often shocking in its surprise. But most importantly is does feel new, modern and forward looking however revived or archive raided.
A key element is layering using fine tops and hosiery. Thicker leg wear such as leggings and fashion accessory opaque or textured tights are very strong for fall/winter 2006 layered looks.
Fashion History Note - Costume history suggests that with time such seemingly minor changes to a silhouette creates the defining look of a fashion era moment. I feel the persistent play with sleeve volume this year, is setting a silhouette style that may eventually be deemed as capturing the essence of the late noughties. As the decade progresses it is clear now that the early noughties were strongly marked by eclectic ethnic influences. These traits moved through to culminate in the mass Boho gypsy look of 2005 along with a fling with feminised military tom boy versus raunchy vamp looks.
Boho has slowly, but surely moved on into a ready acceptance of self styled easy layered looks, with designers encouraging us to stay layered. The easiest way to wear more volume has been with a big bag. Now by mid noughties I note how more volume in garments has also slowly grown more accepted by those who are early adopters and fashion forward. Reworked styles with cocoon volume and easy wear Balenciaga influenced larger sleeves have a fresh futuristic feel.
I have no doubt that VOLUMISED SHAPE will soon be as important as embellishment has been and in retrospect will be the main aspect of silhouettes of the later noughties.
TOP TEN New Fashion Looks for Autumn 2006 & Winter 2007
VOLUME - Cocoon Volume - Balenciaga Sleeves - Big Collars
DRESSES - Short Dresses - Long Tunics - Waist Cinched Frocks
LAYERING - Skinny Leggings - Tights - Sheer Over Opaque Tops
OPULENCE - Baroque Brocade - Gold & Metallics - Fur Trims - Furs
MANNISH - Wide Slouchy Trousers
GREYS - Darkest Charcoals - Light Grey Tones - Monochrome Mix
UNDERSTATED - Sharp Tailored Smart Suits - Trouser Suits
MILITARY - Napoleonic Ornament - Greatcoats
URBAN WARRIOR - Down Parkas - Biker Jackets - Body Conscious Dresses
COUNTRY - Textured Knits - Tailored Tartan Tweeds - Equestrian