This season, the European runways ushered in a color palette more suited to spring rather than fall. From Mugler to Sonia Rykiel to Christian Dior, we saw a pretty wave of soft-hued peaches, dusty blues and pale pinks on sophisticated silhouettes. Who knew these super feminine hues could work year round?
Fall fashion has a rebellious streak, as this edgy trend is back in a loud and proud way. We saw biker leather jackets, spiked jewelry, slogan shirts and zippers galore at Rodarte, Givenchy and Versace. As a verbal mashup of Versace and the trend, designer Donatella named her fall collection "Vunk!"
There was no escaping plaids and checks this season. Dolce & Gabbana, Celine and Gucci were among the designers who paid tribute to the classic print. Some designers decided to go for a feminine body-hugging silhouette while others paid attention to comfort.
The bigger and bolder the shoulder, the better! We love the subtle drama and modern elegance of this easy-to-wear shape. Balenciaga, Carven and Stella McCartney all sent this fashion-forward silhouette down the runway.
Camouflage prints were anything but discreet this season. The pattern dominated runways, as designers Michael Kors, Christopher Kane and Rebecca Minkoff presented collections featuring the colorful versions of the print. Kors included an oversized printed blue-and white-fur, while Kane created a sexy cutout dress.
We spotted a myriad of flattering skirt choices this season in every shape and size imaginable. Prada featured full A-line silhouette, Burberry Prorsum brought back animal prints in prim pencil skirts and Theyskens' Theory introduced us to double-layered styles.
Blast from the past! Designers' love for the era was clearly apparent on the catwalk in the form of stunning side parts and finger waves, as well as a series of swing and pencil skirts. Marc by Marc Jacobs, Bottega Veneta and Nina Ricci beautifully showcased their modern take on the era's fashion.
There were certainly some head-turning moments on the runway as designers displayed an array of statement pieces. Alexander McQueen featured pearl and diamond encrusted face shields, Dolce & Gabbana styled models with gold crowns and Chanel showcased furry vibrant helmets that added some whimsy to the collection.
The key to this trend is simple: simply show off your armor. Sally LaPointe added sequin embroidery for a mock-crocodile effect, Prabal Gurung incorporated cutout detailing and gold buckles and Chanel offered up a sequel to the gladiator boots.
NEXT GALLERY: Sneak Peek! J.Crew Fall 2013 Collection