AW15:
The Trend Report

The distinct thread is weaving its way back into our wardrobes as designers breathed new life into heritage checks, transforming traditional pieces into something that feels so now. On the catwalk, Lanvin, Preen by Thornton Bregazzi, sacai and Proenza Schouler set the checked agenda; applied to the season’s clean shapes and streamlined, contemporary silhouettes, these are the round-the-clock plaids that translate from runway to reality with modern ease.

There is nothing like a change in perspective to set fashion alight and right now the focus is on longer and leaner shapes that alter and enhance body proportions. Long, column coats and trophy jackets with dropped sleeves and slender waists bring dramatic drama to outerwear, while floor-sweeping maxi skirts and high-waisted pants serve to lengthen and the body.

Fringing underscores the 1970s aesthetic, which continues to provide designers with endless inspiration. Reworked to softer, less derivative interpretations at Dolce & Gabbana, Chloé and Proenza Schouler, frayed tassels and trims shimmied down the catwalks in the form of warm-weather capes, statement dresses, cross-body bags and knee-high boots.

Buttons are back in the spotlight with oversize metal and plexi-discs at Stella McCartney, hand-painted ceramic statements at Ellery and brass and furry buttons punctuating almost every look at Balenciaga.

Military style gets a reboot as army capes, long guardsmen coats, naval sweaters, side-stripe trousers and sailor’s culottes are ushered into the new season in forest green and air-force blue, and fastened with lots of shiny buttons. These pieces will prove the workhorses of your wardrobe – battling inclement weather as well as adding a masculine edge to everyday outfits.

Architectural compositions and marble-inspired prints adorn this season’s key shoes and accessories. From Opening Ceremony’s flatforms to McQ’s block-heeled sling-backs, these heavyweight pieces exude a luxurious, clean finish.