THE SEASON-LESS SEASON FW’20

Designers are returning to the core foundation of fashion – the original art form of dressmaking, while stripping off the pomp of decorative elements.

Designers are returning to the core foundation of fashion – the original art form of dressmaking, while stripping off the pomp of decorative elements. But don’t just call it “back to basics”. It’s really more of a concerted effort to reiterate the staples of a modern woman’s wardrobe, but always with a side of fun (see fringes on the runway).

Another salient point to emerge this FW ’20: the relevance of fashion in today’s world. In these troubled times, being trapped in the cycle of trends seems to be, well, out of fashion.

So what does this all mean?

For a start, buying less, but better – because the real trend now is being thoroughly informed. And that is, fundamentally, what being fashionable truly means.

– WINDY AULIA

The White Start

When in doubt go with an all-white ensemble that is sophisticated, youthful, and easy to match – because nothing is better than starting with a clean slate.

Elisabetta Franchi

Brandon Maxwell

Balenciaga

The Column Dress

Now, who doesn’t want to look tall, lean and cool all at once? This is the dress that does all that, and it’ll last you more than a season. Pair it with unexpected pieces like combat boots to give it an edge.

Loewe

Bottega Veneta

JW Anderson

Miu Miu

Chloe

Balmain

Salvatore Ferragamo

Alexander McQueen

"Max Mara"

The Nudes Now

In this day and age, there really shouldn’t be any reason not to find your own shade of nude. From beige to olive to mahogany, fashion’s subtle response to the #woke movement embraces the diversity of all skin tones.

"Saint Laurent"

Femme Fatale Latex

The sightings of latex-laden looks in jewel tones on the runways of Paris signal the return of women dressing subversively sexy, especially when matched with the softest chiffon pussy-bow blouse.

"Givenchy"

The New Silver

This season’s metallic trend takes a deeper – and double – meaning, with silver chosen to symbolise armour and protection, as well as fashion’s reflection of this year’s sombre mood. Floppy hats are optional, but masks are not. This is social distancing with style.

Alexander McQueen

Chanel

Isabel Marant

Marc Jacobs

"Givenchy"

Statement-making Sleeves

For work or for play, for weekdays or the weekend, dramatic sleeves make a strong case for the fashion statement of the season. They’re a technical marvel and a great conversation starter too.

Hermes

GCDS

Marc Jacobs

Versace

"Chanel"

Boxy Sling Bags

They’re fresh, functional, and with a no-frills boxy design, bar a few branding logos. The season’s must-buy bag style will take you from boardroom to brunch in no time.

"Gucci"

Dandy Dress Shoes

They’re the most underrated shoe trend this season, whether it’s brogues, loafers or monk straps. Equal parts comfort and masculine dressing, and a whole lot of sartorial flair.

Prada

Salvatore Ferragamo

Prada

JW Anderson

Dolce & Gabbana

Givenchy

Fendi

Dior

"Jil Sander"

Fringe On Everything

It’s hard not to notice the resurgence of fringe on the FW ’20 runways. Is it simply about exaggerating body movements or about “reveal and conceal”, exuding an air of mystery? Try it for yourself to find out.

Alexander McQueen

Burberry

Louis Vuitton

Fendi

"Jacquemus"

Lingerie For Stepping Out

It’s boudoir fashion, but it’s meant for going out – think beautiful satin corsets layered over organza blouses, or triangle bras worn under a boxy cropped jacket. It can’t get more feminine than this.