Fall Trend: Go “Baroque” w/out Going Broke

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One of the trends this fall season is inspired by the Baroque period. Defined by it’s rich tapestries, embroidered embellishments, bold prints and decorative art this trend has an old world-fashion feel to it.

The Baroque is a period of artistic style that used exaggerated motion and clear, easily interpreted detail to produce drama, tension, exuberance, and grandeur in sculpture, painting, architecture, literature, dance, and music. The style started around 1600 in Rome, Italy and spread to most of Europe.

Baroque print plays out in a number of guises with varying degrees of intensity. From bold, flashy chain prints on leopard spots intertwined with ropes to ornate rococo swirls. Adorned on the runways of Dior, Rodarte and Balmain this trend is not restricted to clothing, also popular in shoe and accessory design.

Like any trend, one should tread lightly on items purchased. These bold prints will not last long and I don’t consider them “investment pieces.” However, I am loving the Baroque-inspired skinny jeans at the moment. Not too flashy and very wearable.

Here is how to “go Baroque without going broke.”

Go Jane ~ Baroque Print Leggings: $17.50

Arden B ~ Baroque Zoe Skinny Jeans: $69.00

Zara ~ 5B Twill Brush Denim w/ Flock Print: $79.90

Urban Outfitters ~ Insight Beanpole Skinny Jacquard Pant: $94.00

J Brand ~ Baroque Skinny Jeans: $141.10 (sale)

Confirmed: Marchesa Contemporary Line

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The rumors are true, Georgina Chapman and Keren Kraig of Marchesa will bring-out a lower-priced contemporary line sometime next year. The new line does not have a name at this point, but will be priced from $150-$750 and feature much of the brand’s signature embroidery and prints.

Chapman describes the line as “under the Marchesa umbrella, but with a slightly different feel. We envision versatile silk blouses, embroidered and beaded jackets and printed trousers.” Chapman says it will launch around pre-fall 2013 and will likely be the tip of the iceberg in terms of the brand’s expansion into new categories.

About Marchesa:

Marchesa is named after socialite Marchesa Luisa Casati. An heiress, a muse and  fashion legend, Marchesa Luisa Casati dazzled everyone she met in turn-of-the-century Europe. Wherever she went, she set trends, inspired genius and shocked the world by wearing live snakes as accessories and parading around with cheetahs on diamond-studded leads.

Georgina Chapman began her career as a costume designer while Karen Kraig focused on print and embroidery design. Georgina’s draping and design paired with Keren’s textile creations resulted in the establishment of Marchesa in 2004. In 2006, the label was named one of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund’s top ten finalists.