It seems as if my mind is in a constant state of flux, wondering how to incorporate a select few SS12 trends into my already overflowing wardrobe, whilst also coveting the AW12 Pre-Fall collections from afar. I like to think of it as Trend Multitasking, the art of using and taking ideas from the 'wrong' seasons to incorporate into your life now and making do with the resources we have available at the moment. You might have the urge to wear a jumper with a grid like pattern as seen at J.W Anderson and Jonathan Saunders, but end up having to compromise with some other garment alluding to this until the High Street kicks into gear (or a canny sample sale arises). I was prepared for a lot of clothing envy at the AW12 Bread and Butter show in Berlin last week and being drawn to so much that wouldn't be in store for another 6 months and a potentially massive shift in what I might be wanting to wear. I knew what to expect from my visit last July and since then I've gradually incorporated a few of the brands and trends into my wardrobe. Despite the rainy weather, I was determined to come back and get a glimpse of what might influence me later in the year (or ten minutes later that evening).
Once again, I was drawn to the merchandising details almost as much as the clothes, with each brand taking the effort to make a layout that reflected their vision for the season. There were plenty of interactive elements such as a customised luggage tag available at the Fossil area, live knitting demos at the We Are Knitters stand and the chance to get paint-happy on a Mavi t-shirt. I picked up plenty of lookbooks in order to form some sort of physical inspiration board and have posted a heavily edited version of what I've seen, to keep some sort of element of surprise for when these all go into stores.
With regards to clothing and accessories, I was definitely drawn to some of the more exciting colour combinations, especially with the reworked Breton tops seen at Saint James and 90s clashing brights at Motel. I am now a full converted Happy Socks devotee, who have created the perfect mint polka dot pair of tights and a really exciting range for later in the year. I also discovered a bit more about the brand Friis and Company, loving everything from their flatform shoes, to their insect inspired jewellery.
As you can see, my preferred shoe styles of choice are pretty consistent with plenty more chunky heels, flatforms and mannish details to keep me amused. Brands of choice were Carin Wester, Cheap Monday, Dr Martens, Vagabond and surprisingly Bensimon. I'm not quite a trainer devotee yet (those Isabel Marant sneakers have passed me by, I'm sorry) but I'm definitely welcoming the sheer amount of colour choice when it comes to their footwear.
Some silly snaps taken in the photobooth with Susie, perfecting the art of the smize.
I know that AW12 trends might not have crossed your mind yet, but have you seen anything here that catches your eye that you might want to wear now? If you want to have a closer look, I've popped a few more pictures on my Facebook page, so comment on anything you like! I am prepared for a huge influx of brightly patterned socks and flatforms this year!
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