>> Escape the gift-buying bustle and cold-city hustle — the season's sunnier side is all about jet-setting in style. In bold primary hues, graphic prints, and easy shapes, these pack-now essentials will have you in a cruise state of mind in no time. See them all now.
Photo: Stella McCartney Resort 2012, courtesy of Getty
>> Giorgio Armani revisited one of his favorite references for Pre-Fall 2012: androgyny. This time around, his signature suits came double-breasted, slim, and cut in rich charcoal and deep onyx. Trousers — another Armani mainstay — were pleated low on the hip for just a hint of '80s jaunt. Also recalling that era was an appealing selection of wear-now party dresses — some drop-waisted with bubble poufs, some body-con with cutouts, and all accented with high-impact neon.
>> For Pre-Fall 2012, Erdem Moralioglu infused his signature prim-and-proper silhouettes with an eye-popping mix of tangerine, citron, deep blue, and blood orange — just the thing for the girl who likes her sweater sets with a side of boldness. Prints and lace — two more Erdem classics — were used strategically and to great effect: fiery florals sprinkled the hem of a full-pleated skirt or the bodice of a slim-lined shift, and dainty lace added graphic intrigue in the form of applique on trenches and sweaters.
>>The 1967 film Far from the Madding Crowd was the touchpoint for the darkly aristocratic Pre-Fall 2012 McQ collection. A rich olive green — found on anoraks, military-tinged riding jackets, and quilted biker coats — along with a smattering of tweed and cable knit lent an English countryside vibe, while high-neck collars, ruffled blouses, and fit-and-flare silhouettes added a dose of primness. This being McQ, there was still plenty of accessible edge: wide black belts, cropped leather gloves, and moody prints.
