Why I Will Never Wear Polka Dots – Fall ’12 Trend Report

By Punch Correspondent Hannah Roth

It’s beginning to smell like September. Summer days are coming to a close – gone are the days of ice cream, pool barbeques, and too much beer. While the DC summer humidity left my hair frizztastic and the summer sun left my skin sizzled, I for one am a major fan of the fall months. Fall – in my humble opinion – is one of the best seasons for beauty and fashion. From perfectly smooth hair, nonsticky weather, layering – everything just flatters. Not to mention all those autumn snacks – pumpkin, cinnamon, and apples (I heard one a day…) – even the food puts me in a sleek and sensuous mood.

The massive September magazine issues are out, and with them comes the pressure for upcoming fall shopping binges. But what to buy? This season there is practically a trend for every clothing personality – from pretty and prim suiting to outfits for the globally inspired girl. I myself am an avid believer in not splurging on trends – and picking the best trends to suit your individual tastes.

For instance, while I LOVE polka dots on other people, I honestly will never be caught dead wearing them. I am not a fan of the adorable…precious never suited my look. When I was a little dancer child wearing my first costume, I remember being indignant when someone’s mom called me cute. Adversely, I cannot ironically wear polka dots, as some punky or alternative girls can do, pulled off flawlessly with tattoos and red lipstick. Therefore, I stay away altogether, no matter how many collaborations Marc Jacobs does with Yayoi Kusami and her insane dotted creations. Here are some examples of fabulous females (NOT me) pulling off polka dots flawlessly:

from celebspotter.com

from lookbook.nu

Thankfully, this fall there’s a trend for every preference. Take charge of your wardrobe because it’s all about female power this year – showcased in rich colors, bold patterns, and ornate fabrics. I love brocades, metallics, and unique embellishments (extra points if you mix and match!). Those who know me understand that I am somewhat of an eclectic dresser and prefer interesting prints, exciting embellishments, and unique color pairings. For those who shy away from powerful prints and pattern mixing, I guarantee there is a way to pull this off. Try a smaller printed shirt with a larger patterned bottom (or visa-versa) – as long as the colors are within the same family, you will have a perfectly on-trend hit. Florence Welch pulls off Prada pattern mixing to a tee here:

from thefashion-court.com

Watch out for oxblood (too many vampire movies!) as the new color-du-jour. Oxblood is just a fancy name for a deep burgundy and can be worn as a neutral dark (don’t you love how there’s always a color that is “the new black of the season”?). I myself luckily happened to pick up a pair of glittering patent platform penny loafers (say that five times fast) in this choice color a couple months ago on a whim (they were 10 dollars on clearance from T.J. Maxx, and I thought they were delightfully tacky). Little did I know they would be such a good investment for my fall wardrobe! Here’s a lil pic of them, in case you’re curious:

writer's own TJ Maxx burgandy pumps

Paired with another powerful and dark hue, especially in black leather or wetlook patent, this shade is pure fashion. For those more laid-back about their Fashionista debut, try wearing this new color as a neutral accessory – in a soft leather bag or wedge boot.

Another major look – prim and proper to the extreme, made sexy because of close-fitting cuts – button up those blouses and add a chunky chain necklace for instant office chic. Collars make a statement, adorned with studs or sequins – and the skin to show is a graceful ankle peeking out from cropped trousers or secret cutout backs or shoulders. Skirts are longer, more interesting and fuller volume than the bandaged minis of seasons past. Monochromatic is continuously chic, especially with the new silhouettes for fall – longer skirts or trousers paired with impeccable blouses.

Pattern and high-textured fabrics (metallics, leathers, polyurethane…too much?) are the freshest trend. With the advent of new technologies and rapidly changing lifestyle, designers are beginning to modernize their fabrics and use new pattern technology to make truly unique pieces. However, another trend that I will not be partaking in is the fuzzy furry sweaters making an appearance for winter. My hair gets pretty fuzzy in the dry winter months, so I will be fluffed enough, thanks but no thanks. Fur collars, however, are worth looking into – they project an extra rich sumptuousness to an outfit, and also, my neck is ALWAYS cold in winter.

NOT for me are fuzzy sweaters, however ….I am more excited about this look:

from fashionista.com

This is my final recommendation for the fall season, and basically for dressing for life in general – be your own fabulous self. Don’t let anyone force you to wear polka dots, or bloodred (if it doesn’t suit your coloring), or fuzztastic sweaters (there’s plenty of warm and equally fashionable options). Do, you darlings, and look all the more powerful for it.