JOIN USThis season, not everything walks straight and narrow — asymmetric is the talk of the town. Whether it’s asymmetric hemlines tapering off or sharp, one-shouldered pieces by way of precise tailoring through tucking, folding, draping and pleating to create new dimension. The fashion sentiment is to fall in line with spring’s new diagonal dressing.
The asymmetrical fashion has given fabrics the freedom to flow and drape breaking the mould of symmetry. They are bold, experimental and add newness to an otherwise structured frame. Fall-winter weather vibes are in the air, which means you need to start planning your seasonal wardrobe immediately. Let’s look at a few key trends for this autumn-winter.
Twill weaves, gabardines and mid-weight fabrics facilitate structure in asymmetric cuts. As the trend progresses, fashionistas opt for blending this fad with a feeling of comfort, which comes through fabrics that are drapey. Fabrics like modal and viscose are ideal for this trend, as they can be enhanced by faceted, crumpled or pleated structures.
Asymmetric ruffles
From time to time, ruffles make their way back into wardrobes. This flouncy, pleated detail that originated in the 15th century appeared chiefly as decoration on cuffs and hems. This fall, though, ruffles have been popping up in all kinds of shapes and forms, and this coming winter they’ll again be given pride of place on blouses,
asymmetric dresses, sweaters and trousers across a range of collections. The ruffle is frequently used as a detail, and many times even as a layer to build depth in a garment.
For a cocktail night, asymmetric ruffles look fabulous on wrap skirts because they do a really good job of highlighting the drape of the fabric. Opt for viscose skirts with a bigger ruffle trim to bring out your inner salsa dancer. As for the top, a casual-fitted shirt or bodysuit will work in your favour to give you that hourglass silhouette.
Skirt secrets
For a casual day out, put on a wrap skirt of the asymmetric or hi-low variety, as it is a great option if you’re looking to show off some leg. By adding a pair of wedge sandals to it, you will indeed get those “legs for days” that you’re looking for, or you can even sport something atypical like over-the-knee boots. A loose blouse goes perfectly to keep things comfortable yet chic in the warmer weather.
For a formal look, layering would make an ensembles seem streamlined and neat. A cropped jacket would be a perfect choice for a slimmer waistline, while a denim shrug will further enhance the look. Our fashion experts state that prints will be huge for an asymmetric trend. Floral is a great way to maximise the movement of a wrap skirt. You will want to keep things a little more muted on top; pair with a solid colour cami-tank top to let the floral print stand alone.
You can replace your work-day midi skirt with a fresh ruffled update. An asymmetric or offbeat hem is a statement of intent; likewise unexpectedly crisp fabrics gives a feminine touch to the overall outfit.
Although kimonos were a rage this summer, they are paving their way for fall. This is a version of the long jacket that drapes nicely over body-hugging pieces and adds a unique flair. Kimonos lend a feminine touch. Style asymmetric kimonos with a short skirt and tights or over a bodysuit. Remember fall fashion is about being subtle. Pick up kimonos in a flowing sheath design. Such outfits can be worn for a party with dangling earrings, heels and a statement chain or can be toned down with sandals and a printed scarf for meetings. Two birds with one stone!
Go hi-low
Here is another trend, which is inspired by summer. It will take on a new shape for fall and be filled with bold details like asymmetric ruffles, textures and embedded designs. Fluid modals and poly-modal blends have a sumptuous after-dark allure in jewel tones. This season’s shade branches out from the regular blacks, greys, and blues (shocker!). And yes, colours always get richer with fall, but this season is specifically favouring mustard/marigold, burgundy, blue and army green.
Look out for asymmetric skirts with subtle glitter finishes, tonic effects, ombré gradations and shadowed stripes, which give a richer and softer look with a better drape. Hi-low skirts are a fall must-have. Accessories like bag, shoes and sunglasses will make your outfit more chic and fashionable.
Jackets
The weather shouts out loud for a jacket… It’s actually a must have piece all year round, but fall is the time to pull out the stops on the best jackets designers have to offer. This fall, jackets stray from the fitted ones of last season and are a little bulkier and loose, which makes comfort an important factor. Go for fabrics that offer structured cuts, come in bright deeper shades and have a smooth feel on the skin. Natural fabrics are skin friendly and provide utmost comfort.
The best part about the season is that you get to be creative and put on cosy layer over your favourite summer pieces, and you can get away with mimicking the fall colour scheme. Experiment with different materials this season to update your look and stay true to your style at the same time.
(The author is the head of design, Birla Cellulose)