While the rest of the world waited patiently with bated breath for the incumbent frost to leave in favor of a balmier season of flowers and sunshine, the fashion crowds looked to what they would be wearing- or coveting- come autumn. In New York, London, Milan, and Paris, strong showings by designers assured fashion lovers and haters alike that the fall would be a time for well-crafted, well cut and well conjectured clothes that would accentuate materiality and the creativity that comes with it, but with a decidedly more minimalist outlook. Whereas Spring 2011 was a time for excess- see Alber Elbaz’s prolific collection for Lanvin- this time around, it was all about pared down luxury. Noted in this minimalist –yet-luxe aesthetic were Celine’s easy fur tops that had the officiousness of T-shirts, Marc Jacobs’ plasticine-polka dot creations, Loewe’s head to toe leather ensembles, and the kitsch of Ricardo Tisci’s panther printed silk sweatshirts. Again, it was all about the materials this fall- materials that highlighted, rather than drew attention away from the refined and well executed craft of the designers.

Celine

Lanvin

Balenciaga

Marc Jacobs

Loewe