Here in London, the last long weekend of the summer has crept up on us. It’s official, summer is over. But before you go and start feeling sorry for me, let me tell you what a glorious two weeks the British summer was! Making way for Fall 2008 is not all bad news. With the onset of fall, comes an excuse to update your wardrobe and the appearance of new collections to browse. We’re all a little sick of the 2005 merchandise they keep adding to the end of summer sales anyhow.
As you can imagine, it can be difficult for even the most advanced stylist to adapt season after season of inventive designer visions into a business wardrobe. Given the list of endless possibilities (imagine “Asymmetrical Gothic Sailor” or “Superhero Grunge Cowboy” just to name a few), it is not hard to believe that the fabulous life of a desk ridden professional doesn’t often spark a designer’s imagination.
Not to worry, the theme for Fall 2008 is different. Think my new favourite show and yours, Mad Men. Ladylike sophistication and polished looks dominate this season. With dark colour palettes and classic tailoring, it shouldn’t be difficult to pick out a few new pieces to add to your work wardrobe. Tartan is also big, but perhaps approach this with caution and only go plaid crazy after your lawyer-ing is done.
Fall ’08 highlights:
For men:
- 3-piece suits
- Waistcoats
- Sport coats and blazers
- Pea coats
For women:
- Belted shift dresses
- Skinny trouser pants
- Peplumed jackets or blouses
- Shirts with high necklines and neck detailing
- Turtlenecks
- Skinny belts (cinched waists)
Terry Chan is a Canadian lawyer practicing finance law in London. She writes every Friday on style and fashion, perfectly aware that the next big thing is not looking like a lawyer.