Runway models strutted their stuff in New York, London, Milan, and finally Paris recently, wrapping up a whirlwind fashion month for Spring 2016 styles. Key designers debuted many stunning pieces, and analysts identified some common themes among the designs. Did you miss it? Not to worry – below is a recap of some of the major designers’ offerings at this year’s Paris Fashion Week and a quick look at some key trends for next season.
Alexander McQueen
Sarah Burton, the creative director of the Alexander McQueen brand, gave fashion experts a run for their money with this new line of soft florals and flowing gowns. Somewhat uncharacteristic for the McQueen line, which has in the past featured more rough-edged designs, this year’s lineup had the following commonalities that can be considered trends for next Spring:
- Pale pink palette with lots of floral
- Nod to Victorian times in dress construction and presentation
- Ruffles and lace
- Light, sophisticated feel
- Long, natural flowing hairstyles
Louis Vuitton
The Louis Vuitton show was the final one in Paris this month, sending fashion month out on a big — and loud — note. A staple in the fashion world as a daring brand at the forefront of design, all eyes were on the Vuitton Spring 2016 collection. Accessories stood out as a category of their own in this show, with runway models rocking leather gloves, a variety of unique handbags, and short boots with metal toes. As for attire, the Vuitton collection featured the following trends for Spring 2016:
- Mesh tank tops (and other see-throughs)
- Jumpsuits
- Trousers with colorful patchwork
- Striped knits
- Sequined mini-dresses
- Shine, shine, and more shine
Nina Ricci
No glitz and sequins like Vuitton. No soft lace and petals like McQueen. Instead, Guillaume Henry, the man behind the Nina Ricci brand, sent his Spring 2016 collection into the world with muted hues and boxy silhouettes (with a few ostrich feathers for embellishments). His efforts drew mixed reviews; trends to watch for from this collection include:
- Minimalistic style throughout
- Sheer blouses
- Apron dresses
- Patent leather
- Monotone color palette
Céline
Pheobe Philo, designer for the Céline brand, put out a runway show filled with contrasts. Along with many of her other creative counterparts, she embraced this season’s sheer trend (starting with a white slip with sheer black lace that covered little). From there, she displayed white furs, leathers, plaid suiting and more. Trends from the Céline show are below:
- Ribbed knit dresses
- Standout accessories (like the bucket tote)
- Voluminous sleeves
- Red lips
General Trends from Paris
Fashionista analysts identified seven major trends emerging from Paris Fashion Week. Don’t be surprised if you see a few bold people making some of these statements on the street next season:
- Bringing back ’90s style
- Embracing voluminous sleeves
- Sticking with knife pleats
- Dressing a bit “rocker-chic”
- Wearing white, and lots of it
- Trying out a Hawaiian print, especially on a jacket
- Touting a giant, floppy, relaxed bow or two
For more of the skinny on Paris Fashion Week, read what The New York Times and Vogue had to say.
