Trend Report: Spring 2011 Is All About the Accessories
Spring 2011’s runways may have been jam-packed with color, prints and denim, but what they were most notable for were the overabundance of shoes, bags, belts, jewelry, sunglasses and hats. It’s time to pile them on and forget the adage of taking one item off before you leave the house.
Belts were big and bold, starting with a tied, obi-esque series at Marc Jacobs. Burberry offered a tough, buckled number while Lanvin showed that anything can be belted—if you have the figure for it. (Alas … )
Sunglasses have become an official wardrobe staple: Jason Wu’s specs were face covering while Prada and Fendi had intriguing new shapes and colors.
If you’re gleefully awaiting the new stiletto arrivals in stores, you’re going to be sorely disappointed. Flats and thick-soled clunkers stomped down catwalks. Nearly bare feet were the way to go at Derek Lam, with flat, strappy sandals evoking the gladiator theme yet still remaining minimal. Bottega Veneta showcased thick black leather straps, and Michael Kors gave us a tan leather, perfect to pair with a '70s peasant dress.
On the other end of the spectrum, soles swelled, but the height we’ve seen in recent seasons is missing. Comfort might actually be king. Chanel sent out intricately strapped versions in several colors. Vena Cava had ties, peep toes, and a wooden sole. But Rag & Bone’s peep-toe laced-up numbers really were made for walking.
If soles grew, bags shrank. Minaudières and pocket bags accented outfits, with room enough to hold lipstick and maybe a set of keys at Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, and Dolce & Gabbana.
Looks were polished off with hats: white, black and brown gauchos at Hermès; extra-large, straw wide-brim versions at Marc Jacobs; and flat, vaudevillian toppers at Vivienne Westwood.
And last but certainly not least, large bracelets adorned wrists at every turn, from Gucci’s warrior cuffs to Chanel’s metallics to layering bands at Hermès.
Check them all out in our slideshow, and remember: the more accessories, the merrier this season.
