Fall 2012 trends: baroque

Sep 21, 2012
LadyLUX • Fashion

In line with opulence and bejeweled styles, baroque-inspired apparel, footwear and accessories is one of the key trends for Fall 2012. Designers referenced the excessive ornamentation and design that began around 1600 in Rome and spread throughout Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. Similar to the art and architecture of the era, Fall pieces illustrated decadence with intricate design patterns, brilliant gold motifs, velvet tapestries and an overwhelming abundance of embellishments. Dolce and Gabbana resurrected Sicilian traditions with cardinal’s vestments, communion dresses and capes all dripping in gold bullion. Balmain expressed exuberance with a collection inspired by the Fabergé egg. Boxy silhouettes and body-con dresses were blanketed in tiny pearls and crystals crafted in elaborate arrangements. Alexander McQueen, Ralph Lauren Collection and a handful of other designers also infused baroque ideas into their assortments, easily making this one of the most popular trends of Fall 2012.

Perfect for a party, Nanette Lepore’s society sheath dress is just what the Romans had in mind. Metallic sequins in an abstract pattern envelope the dress, creating the utmost elegance. Step into fur ankle strap heeled sandals and accessorize with a purple snakeskin minaudiere.

Alexander McQueen’s intarsia knit dress goes for grandeur. The fitted style with a rounded neckline in cherry and black boasts an elaborate design that perfectly illustrates the theme. Round out the bold dress with gold sculpted wedge heels and stacked bracelets.

With matching gold leaf earrings, Oscar de la Renta offers the collar necklace to indulge in. The stunner exhibits 24-karat yellow gold-plated pewter and brass throughout the refined design. Layer the leaf motif piece over a lace blouse combined with an A-line skirt for a ladylike appearance.

Ralph Lauren Collection Bettina suede boots exude beauty with a gold-tone heel detailed with cutouts and crystal embellishments. The black ankle bootie is versatile with pants, denim or skirts, but offers a little extra with the heel. Treat the boot as your staple footwear for the season, made for day or night, dressed up or down.

Emilio Pucci’s beaded Milano stitch jacket is the epitome of lavish design and versatility. The black blazer features exquisite gold beading in an extravagant all-over pattern. The jacket could easily pair with all-black looks complete with a leather pencil skirt or wide-leg velvet pants. For a more festive ensemble, try teal or purple pants. Skip on the jewelry to let the jacket be the statement.

J Brand blends its popular skinny with a floral velvet paisley print. The lush texture offers a sophisticated lux appeal. Replace your usual skinnies this season and pair the unique style with a leather t-shirt and oversized vest to fully embody the trend. Finish the look with ankle booties and a gold cuff or necklace.

Unabashedly decadent, Alexander McQueen’s floral embroidered box clutch is a statement on its own. The hand-held style boasts a bright floral embroidery accented with a skull and unicorn knuckle closure. Add character to a dress-down denim and knitwear or consider accessorizing a gold cocktail dress with the clutch.

As gold is the key color of the baroque trend, Kendra Scott’s Ainsley cuff is a must-have. The bold bracelet features frenzied filigree and organic lines in 14-karat yellow plate gold. Every Fall ensemble, daytime or night, could benefit from the touch of opulence the cuff offers.

Oscar de la Renta knows lux and these gold leaf earrings prove it. The 24-karat yellow gold-plated set displays an appealing rich design. Finish baroque-styled looks with the clip-on earrings and the matching necklace for a fancy appeal.