London Calling: Fall 2012 Collections

Photos courtesy of Burberry.

We are skimming the wave tops in London but wanted to call out two great collections that caught our attention.

Christopher Bailey does it yet again for Burberry Prorsum: a new season, a new must-have trench. This one with peplum detailing in Prince of Wales checks. Feminine, practical and elegant. Note the mustard belt! The rest of the collection soars with rich fabrications, wonderful accents including mustard gloves, and sleek silhouettes matched with belts or cropped jackets. One other thing. Things are changing so quickly in the fashion world that you can even shop this collection today and your order will arrive in eight weeks. It makes our heads spin. Fashion is becoming so virtual that a season seems almost outdated months before it arrives. To watch the show or order, click on here on Burberry Prorsum.

Photos courtesy of Alexander McQueen.

Launched about six years ago, McQ, a brand of the Alexander McQueen family, appeared on the runway for the first time ever at this 2012 fall fashion week in London.  When asked about the collections inspiration, Creative Director, Sarah Burton resolved that “clothes should be beautiful and available at any price.”  The dark romance to the textures and tailoring of the the McQ collection won us over. Special details included the appliquéd multicolor flowers (which appear to be perfectly translated from the Pre-Fall McQueen Collection), tulle, the famous plaid, the  military-inspired menswear! We loved the sculpted skirts and coats and the heavy black lace. And by the way, there’s that glove trend again!

Kathryn, The Blonde & NJ, The Brunette