Utilitario

The Pre-Fall 2011 shows are beginning to show themselves...I am always drawn to the Pre-Fall collections, because they show the core of what a designer is feeling at that moment. Not too done up or wild, just straight up design.

The below Thakoon shows where the military trend mashed up with Minimalism to create the simple and flattering Utility look. It was visible in the Spring shows as well, and I'm happy to see it continue. Boxy silhouettes and straight lines with a few over-sized pockets here and there; something so straightforward is hard to dislike!

Click on any designer's name to see their full runway show.

Thakoon (Pre-Fall 2011)

Acne (Spring 2011)

Behnaz Sarafpour (Spring 2011)

Nicole Farhi (Spring 2011)

Sonia Rykiel (Spring 2011)

All runway photos courtesy of Style.com

Maximum Effect

I never thought I would say this...but I really want a maxi dress. Somehow these long dresses went from boho blandness (usually paired with some unfortunate Ugg boots) to an easy way to make your day wardrobe a bit classier. I'm talking strictly about updating your casual wardrobe, dresses for more formal events are a different story.

Here are a few from the Resort shows that are looking great - they are a lovely variety of dresses, from straight off the beach to borderline formal. What a sleek way to dress up any summer day...

Click on any designer's name to see the full runway show.

Kenzo (Resort 2011)

Sonia Rykiel (Resort 2011)


Preen (Resort 2011)


3.1 Phillip Lim (Resort 2011)

Lanvin (Resort 2011)

All runway photos courtesy of Style.com