Trend Watch: Architectural Forms in Fashion

A dream for many of the creative, free-spirited jewelry designers out there, a key trend for fall and winter is the return of highly architectural designs in clothing. These designs exaggerate lines and repeat geometric shapes, creating exciting designs that get noticed.

The ideal jewelry to adorn these designs is also stand-out and architectural or geometric in shape. Strong three-dimensional forms are perfection with these fashions. Repeating the overall shapes and lines of the wearer’s apparel in her jewelry can provide an extraordinary effect. Jewelry that is too small or insignificant cannot hold its own against these styles.

This trend will be embraced by the woman with a dramatic style personality. These styles make an entrance.

The Calvin Klein line has long been known for a clean, streamlined aesthetic, and this fall’s collection reflects the minimalist yet architectural approach of the line’s new designer, Francisco Costa. Notice in the photo below, from the August 2008 issue of Allure magazine, that even the belt is devoid of embellishment. Jewelry for this look needs to be spare statement pieces.

The August 2008 issue of Elle magazine includes a collage of modern architectural designs inspired by model Wallis Franken, who was a muse of designer Claude Montana back in the 1980’s. From a metal clutch by Jimmy Choo to a sculptural cuff by Alexis Bittar, the accessories hold their own against the strong forms rendered in fabric, as seen in the Louis Vuitton skirt and Prada jacket (pictured below).

I love the design of the following look from Missoni. Not only does the print of the pants provide superb inspiration for jewelry, the wonderful crossover elements of the top also provide a point of reference. Accessorizing this look would be fun!

Finally, notice that even Versace, known for drop-dead sexy fashion, is embracing a more architectural perspective, as seen in the following photo. The dress is covered, not bare (an important trend for fall), but the undulating design of the front of the dress is a great example of combining the trend toward the dramatic with the essential Versace brand focus on the alluring style personality. Drama and allure create a most exciting combination.