Spring 2013 runway trends: updated cutouts

Sep 25, 2012
LadyLUX • Fashion

Cutouts are no stranger to the runways but for Spring 2013, designers gave the concept a refresher. Gone were the typical provocative openings at the waist and chest. Instead, the updated cutouts trend revolved around illusions. Slices and splices throughout dresses made it appear as if panels were magically floating on the body. The effect was made possible with mesh or invisible fish-line embroidery that offered structure and support. It was a futuristic result that felt unexpected and undeniably fresh.

Catherine Malandrino opted for little windows that revealed snippets of the body rather than cleavage. The body-hugging silhouettes featured wavy slivers backed by a nude mesh that ran from the sleeves through the bodice and fit together like puzzle pieces. One-sleeved styles further enhanced the new cutout concept.

Alexander Wang took the idea in the most modern direction by deconstructing sections of a dress and reassembling them with fragments of space. The sharp, precise pieces hovered over the body producing a sci-fi, Tron-like effect. While dresses were the main focus, sporty sleeveless tops, hooded sweaters, knee-length shorts and baseball style tees also utilized the cutout. The collection of black and white looks with architectural cuts eventually gave way to wavy splices.

Topshop’s older, more sophisticated sister Topshop Unique also went colorless for Spring 2013 with its sophisticated collection of streamlined silhouettes. The smart collection infused the updated cutout trend with an athletic-inspired flair. Relaxed-fit see-through mesh dresses set the foundation for strategically placed pieces that provided coverage. Peeks of skin appeared at the sleeves, waistline, hem and neckline.