We might be smack dab in the middle of NYFW, where designers are showcasing Spring 2014 collections, but that doesn’t mean we’ve forgotten about fall. (It is the season we’re currently dressing for after all.)
Chanel’s fall 2013 runway collection was a hybrid of glossy futurism, a little bit of punk rock and the label’s signature ladylike details. Models wore jackets and thick sweaters over miniskirts and fierce thigh-high boots wrapped with chain links. Lagerfeld still upheld a soft femininity in his looks, with tapered waists and full skirts in tweeds and other thick fabrics.
Toward the end of the show, designer Karl Lagerfeld upped the rebel attitude with long flowy hems, exaggerated collars and hardcore chunky metal bracelets and necklaces.
Emulate Lagerfeld’s punk chic look with sophisticated, sleek black separates. Give most of the attention to statement accessories, and keep the look from looking trashy by staying with conservative shapes. Don’t wear a lot of eye makeup; only highlight the glow of your natural skin.
Start with the shoes. Those thigh-highs. Wow. Look for a wicked pair of your own, and feel free to pile on the embellishments. Studs, chains, a tall heel. Check out these mamas from Nasty Gal, or these thigh-high lace-up wedge boots from Solestruck. They’ll really turn heads.
The rest of the outfit should be more muted, balanced by simple silhouettes made from tough materials. Try a short leather skirt with a full hem, such as this one from Second Female or this PVC leather number from Black Milk Clothing. Top it off with a clean-cut but form-fitted sweater in a neutral tone, such as this ribbed boat neck version by Zara. Finally, complete the look with some chunky punk jewelry, and, if you’re a lucky enough lady — your iconic chain-link Chanel bag.
