What’s old, is new! in Fashion
3 Jan 2008,

  The hip look  
The world of fashion is constantly changing, more and more designers and stylists are looking to the past for inspiration; what’s old is new, and nowadays fashion is shaped by all the cultural influences from around the globe.

The past continues to be the inspiration for the future but more than ever, designers are concerned about where fashion and beauty trends originate. The styles and trends we will see in 2008 will inevitably reflect modern interpretations of past designs, while also keeping an eye on emerging global trends in beauty and culture.

What’s IN

Feminine dressing, thin belts, head scarves, pencil skirts that are knee length or longer, sequins, metallics, silk jersey and chiffon, hats, clutches, dressing up, colours — orange, rose, lavender, green and silver, the new neutral. Remember, comfort factor should be foremost.

What’s OUT

Wicker and raffia shoes, ultra short skirts and shorts, peasant skirts, jersey knits, baby doll dresses, lots of black and/or other dark colours, loud geometric prints. The takeaway would be a focus on fit and quality — less on brand. Go cheap on accessories like the skinny belt and metallic purses.

Experts’ forecast

Stylist Asha Hariharan says this year is going to be a clear celebration of Bohemian lifestyle. The beach blonde and copper blonde look will be back. Hair doesn’t need to be poker straight, in fact a vintage, luminous look is in.

Solo shades and shine lines are going to be in. With the winter going into autumn, the black accentuated look is back. People are going to revel in the effortless luxury in hair, couture and living spaces. The key word would be luxury in summer time. A taste for cigars, aged old whiskey in hues of vintage gold and ochre, rich boudoir, burgundy on endless silk drapes will rock the 2008 look.

Accessories designer Nina Lekhi, who recently won an award for not using leather, feels individuals would opt for utilitarian accessories in 2008. Men would go for bags with slings, mobile phone pouches and comfortable shoes. “There will be a conscientious drift from using real leather to moving away from practices which harm animals and the environment” she adds.

Stylist and designer Rocky S says, “My forecast for 2008 is that the silhouettes will be a mix of restricted and relaxed mood. The tent will continue with natural and high waist accents, bottoms are either narrow or completely flared. Colours will be neutral, fresh pastels with vivid trims running into rich deep shades. Long, flowy dresses will be in vogue, voluminous skirts and bit of power dressing for women. As for men, it will be the tapered slim fit in both top and bottom wear for semis and formals and more of lounge wear.

Designer Manish Malhotra plays it articulate. He says, “Palazzo trousers, skinny pants and jeans for men and women are cool. Knee-length dresses of fitted but quenched at the waist with a belt is a great look to watch out for.”

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