A is for Abstract Appeal

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Casey Kettleson

By Casey Kettleson in ABCs of Fall/Winter Fashion
on August 23, 2010

Kicking off our new style series – ABCs of Fall Fashion – is the undeniable appeal of abstract prints. From Erdem and Generra to DVF, this trend hit the runway hard and promises to be one of the biggest trends of the season.

A is for Abstract Appeal

There's no denying that cat prints are big right now (read the New Rules for Wearing Leopard here) – but so are the chic, new, abstract ones. Splashes of colors and scribbled black and white prints create a more subtle visual feast than the in-your-face leopard ones, and will add a healthy dose of sophistication to your wardrobe instantly.

According Fairchild's Dictionary of Fashion, the term 'abstract' in fashion refers to stylized designs of a non-naturalistic type – Op art, geometric prints, and others are included here. Lines, color and geometric forms may all be emphasized in different types of abstract prints.

Above: Robert Robinson's "Sunset" Abstract (print available for $1,500 at Neiman Marcus); Epice's spiral print scarf, now $59 from $255; Earrings by Nicole Romano, $205; Scribble print dress by Temperley London, $995.

Our favorite head-to-toe abstract looks from the fall 2010 runways came from Doo.ri, Proenza Schouler and Erdem (and OMG, we die for the printed boots Nicholas Kirkwood created for the show), but smaller accessories such as scarves from Epice (see above) and Prova might be the best way to begin playing with the print in real life.

And as much as we love the looks right off the catwalk, one of the greatest things about this trend is that it can easily be found vintage shopping – and probably by shopping in your own closet. True of most trends, this one has been recycled many times and while the cuts of the fall 2010 pieces will no-doubt prove most modern, you may be able to find something great at the thrift store or shoved into the back corner of a drawer, which could either be altered or mended for not much cash, but still give you the look.

Go ahead: Fall for abstract prints on the runway at Doo.Ri, Erdem, Diane von Furstenberg and Carolina Herrera, seen above.

Not sure if this trend is for you? More of a minimal gal? Perhaps you'd be more comfortable rocking this trend via geometric cut-out pieces such as Donna Karan's laser-cut leather gloves (shown in the top image) or through the addition of some cool cut-out booties this season – and for a great lower-priced option be sure to check out Lela Rose for Payless in stores now - she has a great boot available for well under $50.

Are you feeling the abstract appeal?
Visit us often for more of this new series, the ABCs of Fall Fashion.

7 Comments

  • natapoo

    natapoo • almost 2 years ago
    Oooh I'm so excited for the series! Off to a great start so far!

  • Casey Kettleson

    Casey Kettleson • almost 2 years ago
    Thanks Natalie ;)

  • Abbie

    Abbie • almost 2 years ago
    Fact: Some of the abstract prints at DVF are of her visage.

  • katie

    katie • over 1 year ago
    gah, esp in love with the two dresses in the middle!!

  • Casey Kettleson

    Casey Kettleson • over 1 year ago
    I'm with you katie - die for that Erdem this season!

  • Lainey

    Lainey • over 1 year ago
    Very, very nice. That is one of the best designed Tibi dresses I have seen.

  • LeandraMedine

    LeandraMedine • over 1 year ago
    love this!!!!!