Fall and Winter 2010 is defined by all things Bohemian – supple, fringed suede boots, peasant-style blouses that evoke the hidden Gypsy in all of us, chunky gold jewellery and a range of accessories hewn and crafted out of exotic pelts, furs and skins.
Ostrich, crocodile and snake skin the natural ‘fabrics’ of choiceThe overriding hue appears to be dominated by the purples and lilacs of the palette with premier designers Prada, Gucci and Louis Vuitton creating stylish leather purses and wallets dyed the brightest lavenders, plums, wines and amethysts. Exotic leathers and snake skin are the chosen natural ‘fabrics’ used by the fashionistas of New York, Milan and Paris to create unique and expensive ostrich bags, crocodile belts and snakeskin boots.
Fur is back with a vengeance
Fur, both real and faux, is back with a vengeance with the full-length traditional fur coat making the biggest of comebacks, especially in the icy northern climes. The more planet-conscious, however, are opting for faux fur trims on coats, hats and even scarves, but the emphasis is not on emulating the real furs of chinchilla, fox or mink but rather going right over the top with an obvious fake fur look – exotic animal prints like leopard and zebra and faux fur dyed in subdued pinks, yellows and purples.
Coats of choice this chilly winter are made from pure wool, not only because they are decidedly eco friendly but long lasting and durable too. Suppressed colours like brown, camel, grey and black are the more traditional offerings but, for the extreme team of designers, flamingo pinks, bright reds and startling plaids are not unusual.
Laces are the ‘sexy’ accessory for 2010
Ankle-high boots and shoes with tassels are big again this winter but it appears as if laces in all sorts of guises are the principle lures this winter. Whether laced-up boots or stilettos with ‘string’, laces have been branded the ’sexy’ accessory to include in all footwear collections in 2009.
Magnificent feathers and opulent plumes are favoured not only as suitable ‘dressing’ for outsized hats but as details on dresses, skirts, scarves and collars with the ostrich, peacock, pheasant and marabou preferred over all other birds.
Neo-grunge gets the nod
Neo-grunge has been given the nod with fashion-conscious women opting for torn stockings or laddered leggings. Add a military-style jacket resplendent with gold detailing and ornate trims and you’re starting to get the idea for 2010.
SHEARLING COAT
MINK COAT
FOX FUR COAT
By: Kayla Reid
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The Safari Club specializes in exotic skin goods, ranging from fur, crocodile & ostrich handbags, wallets, purses and belts to zebra skins, leather luggage and home accessories like ottomans, antique chairs, sofas and frames of the finest quality - proudly handcrafted in South Africa from only 1st grade and Nature Conservation-approved animal skins and hides.