Folkloric
Russian fashion influences are everywhere this season. And
in this report you’ll see how the peasant looks from last
season have morphed into Russian fashion styles, which are just
as easy to wear - just warmer. The great thing about this look
is that you’ll already have elements of it in your wardrobe
you can adapt. Folk and Russian fashion styles are going to
be the commercial hit of the season.
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I’ve chosen this
example from Marks and Spencer to give you a real flavour
of the way the mainstream stores are all selling the Folk look
and of course to show you how it can be put together in a high
fashion way.
The more layers you work with the more it will have
a catwalk flavour. Peasant style skirts in dark colours
with Russian or Eastern European embellishments underpin this
look and if you are a newsletter receiver you will have already
had our tips on updating your summer peasant wardrobe. Now add
knitwear, beads and the faux fur gilet. It’s that easy!
A sturdy pair of flat brown boots – which we
told you would be a good buy last spring to see you
into autumn will come into their own now and woollen tights
make the whole thing comfortable and practical.
Autumn Fashion Collections - now online at Marks & Spencer
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I’ve chosen this
look from Next to illustrate how easy it is to wear
the same folk inspired look in a much simpler and less 'fashiony'
way – this is a perfect look for curvy bodies and those
of you who don’t want to stand out. (Layers are not flattering
for curvy bodies).
To achieve this look you need only make one purchase
of a gently patterned skirt again ‘Russian folk,’
influenced (catalogues have much simpler versions and have better
size ranges). Now match it to a plain item of knitwear you already
own. Keep to one base colour like brown or black and everything
will co-ordinate. Hipster belts, which you will no doubt have
left over from last winter and indeed, again this summer are
perfect here.
If you choose this simple style but are thinking of
updating your boots then go for a gently rounded toe
with a wedge like the ones shown here. This is a great boot
to create the illusion of a longer leg and if you have curvy
calves be sure to check our shopping mall for lists of companies
that offer wider fit boots.
The new Autumn/Winter 2005 NEXT DIRECTORY is out NOW. Request your copy.
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On trend companies
like Mango have recreated the Roberto Cavalli catwalk style
so make sure you see our catwalk report to give you
a better insight. Layering like this loose wrap knot over sumptuous
printed blouse will work just as well with jeans as it does
with a suede tired skirt, chunky belt and suede boots.
A look like this would work well on a tall body but
not on a top- heavy body, to find out why order your own e-book
from the home page.
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And finally the cropped
jacket with fur trim, styled here by New Look who have
moved up in the market place from budget retailer to fashion
provider.
The colourful embellished skirt and slouch
boots are the autumn statement style for a dressier look.
There’s much more black around this season so
look for Russian and folk influenced garments and wear as simple
skirt, sweater and boot look or be more daring with layers and
colour mixes.
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The key with all the
trends we have flagged up is to have fun. Now that
you have got an angle on the styles you can use to update your
wardrobe, read through an e-book on your body shape to help
you choose the right looks for you. Remember fit and flatter
first – fashion second. Take this key thought with you
when ever you shop and choose your clothes confidently to suit
you.
Folk – Lets make it simple.
To create your own Russian fashion look, let’s
have a look at the key items for your wardrobe this season as
flagged up by our catwalk reporter and fashion editor Melissa
Dick. A selection of these items will help you to recreate the
catwalk looks perfectly. One or two, when mixed with your favourite
jeans will help you to update your existing wardrobe.
Embroidered peasant skirt
Maxi gypsy skirt
Faux-fur trimmed gilet
Printed blouse
Wedge suede knee boots
Felt wool, belted coat
Floaty printed dress
Cropped cardigan
Smocked shirt
Wide suede belt.
Caryn says
‘To find out more about your personal style, select an
e-book especially written by me, to help you style your individual
body shape. Learn what suits your body shape and what to avoid.
It’s fashion advice that will last you a life time.’
Available from the home page now
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