Spring 2013 runway trends: foiled

Sep 28, 2012
LadyLUX • Fashion

It’s high shine time on the Spring 2013 runways! Designers are giving interest to classic pieces by creating them with foiled textiles. The shimmering, iridescent fabric offered eye-catching moments and gave dimension to simple silhouettes. From metallic gold to shimmery silver to bright purple or yellow, there was a full range of color possibilities that designers tapped into. Foils also proved versatile with soft and strong structures in dresses, jackets, button front shirts, pencil skirts and sleeveless tops. Designers paid extra attention to styling techniques to take the material from modern to glamorous.

Richard Chai’s collection began as an airy, pastel assortment but around halfway through, he kicked it up a notch to finish with foiled looks. Deep, brassy gold glistened down the runway in minidresses and unexpected knee shorts with a coordinating knit. There was a goddess-like quality to the dress with its relaxed fit. The shorts, on the other hand, took sporty styles to a sophisticated level.

Jonathan Saunders went modern with a hint of sci-fi in his lineup of foiled and finished looks. The show’s openers balanced sleek nude tops with glistening pencil skirts. In reverse, the material also appeared on a tank top paired with a plastic skirt. The British designer also stepped outside of the box to craft a cool baseball jacket with the high shine textile.

Where Saunders was modern, Burberry Prorsum went feminine and playful. In citrus and jeweled shades, the presentation of ‘40s glam experimented with foil and mirror finishes in tunic dresses, button-ups and of course, the iconic trench coat. Christopher Bailey gave the outerwear piece a makeover with glossy sleeves and a matte foil finish. Prints and even menswear dress shirts couldn’t escape the trend.