Autum/Winter 2009 Fashion Trends: Postmodern at its Finest

by Blaine Metzgar | July 13, 2009 at 03:12 pm

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Get ready, summer sales are going on, all the stores are clearing out their warm weather wears and making valuable shelf-space for the 2009 Autumn/Winter collections. As far as trends go, as with everything, post-modern is the key. Think dark, think luxe, think mix-and-match.

For all the ladies out there here are the trendiest of the trends to take cues from. We ain't talking everyday looks, this is fashion, high-fashion.

The 80s are back:

• Leather: Jackets, skirts, belts, everything. Go black, it's definitely the color of the season.

• Strong Shoulders: Bring out your mom's blazers from the era of the yuppies, shoulder pads are back. This trend isn't limited to blazers though; shirts, dresses, coats, anything--the silhouette is aggressive but shockingly wearable for a variety of body shapes.

• Gilded Glitz and Glam: Be like a barracuda, head for the shiny things. Think sequin, metallic, and patent leather pieces. Don't be afraid to go big: this trend can be implemented on major pieces like dresses, pants, or coats as long as it's paired with something more subdued and matte.

Shoes, Oh My God, Shoes:

• Booties: We've seen them on the runways for a few years now but they haven't quite hit the mainstream until now. Get out of your comfort zone and buy a pair, they are a staple for the Fall/Winter season. Keep an eye out for a leather pair as they'll go with everything and hold up in the rain and or snow.

• Boots: It is Fall, so boots are obviously in. Look for flat boots as flats are not in this season, I repeat, flats are not in.

• No Flats: Sorry, I hate to break it to you but flats are a no this season. Instead opt for creative heels or if you're looking for comfort a flat boot is always a viable alternative.

As far as colors go this season gloomy is in. Go dark, blacks, greys, and just darker hues in general. Use the desaturated tones as a backdrop for standout pieces like necklaces or metallic pieces.

Another big staple this coming season is ripped tights, I know what you're thinking but try them. Post-modern is cool, remember. Mix your old tights, nicked to perfection with a cheese grader or otherwise, with some luxe leather or a sequinned mini dress and tear up the town. It's a little bit hipster, but hey, nothing wrong with being too cool for school.

And finally here are some tips for choosing denim, cause we can't be glitzed out 24/7. As far as denim goes, the skinny is still in but go for grey washes or the standard dark wash with their fair share of lovin'. I'm talking rips, holes, worn out. I know, it sounds tough and scary, boo. Just pair your ripped pair with a clean, dark top and the look becomes a lot less harsh and a lot more cool.

For the true trendsters out there try a pair of harem pants; it's an update to the hammer pants of yore. Drop-crotch trousers with pleats, yes pleats, are being adopted by more than just 90s one-hit-wonder. It’s a bold look but easier to pull off than you would think.

Well, there you have it, take a few cues or dive right in; keep up the good looks for Fall 2009.