Fall 2012 is the season of dark beauty. Designers dove into the edge of darkness to find inspiration this period, discovering Lisbeth Salander from “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,” crucifixes from the Dark Ages and a whole lot of subtle fetish references. In shadowy colors, the mood was romantic but not the feminine kind. It was the powerful kind. Silhouettes only made the theme stronger as they borrowed from the boys with loose trousers or emphasized shoulders. Materials and textures also played a vital role as Saint Laurent’s sophisticated dominatrix was enhanced with chainmail, while leather combined with velvet or fur evoked confidence on Gucci’s runway. Deep oxblood red lips sealed the deal.
B Brian Atwood gets fierce with the artistic suede and patent leather ankle boots. The cool silhouette is accented with a shiny pattern and boasts a shortened platform and killer heel. Style the booties with coated leggings or leather shorts.
Theyskens’ Theory brings a darkness to t-shirts with an igroh graphic. The staple short-sleeved style can be combined with a miniskirt and a long coat for drama. Balance the proportions with pumps or mid-shaft pointed boots. Add on an arm party of silver bracelets and a foldover clutch.
Tom Binns steps into the Dark Ages with dangling metal earrings with crucifix accents. Black crystals contrast against 14K gold plated crosses for a compelling look. Include the earrings on simple outfits to achieve effortless chic.
Sticking with the crucifix motif, Nasty Gal features a modern cuff. The minimalistic style incorporates the cross design seamlessly into the thin bracelet. Stack up several for some serious attitude.
To add a little mystery to every look, accessorize with Alexander McQueen’s black rabbit skull knuckle clutch. The long rectangular case is wrapped in fur and accented with black leather straps and a four-finger knuckle cluster clasp in gold. The box-clutch pairs brilliantly with a leather minidress or a bundled look of layered knits and a dramatic coat.
Tibi reinvents the pencil skirt with a liquid-like vinyl. The slick appearance is roughed up with a raw hem. Play against the burgundy and texture with a studded velvet sweatshirt and snakeskin heels. Red lips are a must.
Capes on the runway were not only lux but powerful. Rachel Zoe presents the Jeni wool cape with leather trim and welted pockets. Gold-toned accented buttons bring rich quality to the outerwear. Top off an ensemble of suede trousers and sheer blouse with the cape. Go one size up for a chic oversized look as inspired by Gucci.
Versace goes gothic glam with a paneled chainmail dress. The short minidress boasts a silvertone T-shaped panel across the yoke and center. Amp up the theme with over-the-knee boots and kohl-rimmed eyes.
Donna Karan’s reversible patch shearling vest has the right attitude in indigo blue. The lux piece features glazed, cracked leather panels mixed with rich suede patches on the exterior and fur pieces accenting the interior. Simply layer the number over an ensemble of all-black leather pants and long-sleeve top. Complete the look with knee-high boots.
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