Felder Felder do fringing for S/S 2010

You would be forgiven for that thinking the Spring/Summer catwalks had transported their throngs of seated admirers back to a country and western setting of prairies, cowboys and lassoes with an abundance of fringed embellishment adorning bags, shoes, evening dresses and bolero jackets.

The fringing trend at Felder Felder, Jasmine Di Milo and Marc Jacobs moved away from past seasons’ flirty and sweet flapper vibe towards a sleeker, tougher and altogether more subtle look. Whereas previous seasons would see a dress of vivid colours adorned head to toe in the tassled trim, the look at Pucci was decidedly more wearable; understated was the name of the game with fringed, tan leather bags creating a haberdashery-esque feel.

The look was unashamedly modern and funky. Whereas Marc Jacobs adorned his grey and tan leather bags with fringing and shots of metallic silver to add a fresh twist to the look, Mulberry’s injections of colour; a vivid royal blue, ensured its suede moccasins and Daria bag wowed the crowd with a contemporary, playful take on fringing. The tougher side of the look came out to play with Felder Felder’s black leather jacket complete with studded fringing and eyelet-adorned sleeves. Studs were also seen at Dolce and Gabbana, where thigh-skimming, suede skirts provided cheeky and sexy respite from the tough looks over at Felder Felder.

This look was made to be worn at festivals and for weekend playing, allowing the wearer the freedom to be as adventurous or as subtle as desired. For an impressive take on the trend for the Spring/Summer season wear with classic retro aviators and break up denim with statement fringing. Lipsy have nailed the look with this Pucci-esque messenger bag or try ASOS Premium for a D & G imitation. Alternatively, a fringed waistcoat such as this Lipsy number looks amazing with a maxi dress or denim shorts and slubby top.

With a decidedly pared-back vibe, the fringing trend for S/S ’10 is perfect for the workplace. Subtle details such as the tassels on necklaces at Dries van Noten and tasselled trim on bags at Marc Jacobs allow this look to be worked into a formal or work-appropriate ensemble. Understated embellishment such as on this Oasis bag provides just the right amount to lift formal wear for an on-trend take on the look. Alternatively, small fringe detailing on tops or shoes can work wonders in making a formal outfit eye-catching and covetable. Head to ASOS for fringed separates and look to Kurt Geiger for fringed moccasin-style ankle boots in their Autumn/Winter collection.

Fringe details at Balmain A/W 2010

The good news is that the fringed look is set to continue well into the fall; Balmain and Gareth Pugh both showcased fringe-adorned pieces at their Autumn/Winter shows. Balmain displayed a plethora of sumptuous and covetable looks as fringing offset velvet military jackets, gold micro-mini dresses and brocade dresses complete with ‘laced-up’ details.

Over at Gareth Pugh, an all-black palette ensured a gothic edge to his fringed full-length dress. As usual, when it comes to drama, Pugh pulls it out for the bag. However, the high street has already begun rolling out similar items for the coming season; Lipsy has created an amazing replica in a more wearable length.

Bear in mind that texture is a buzzword for next season as designers teamed the fringing trend with sequins, jacquard fabrics, eyelets, studs, velvet and leather. Don’t be afraid to mix the trend with other looks: think layering tribal, animal print or the new minimalism with fringed pieces for a fresh twist.

Finally, look to old Western films, comic strips and music stars of the era for inspiration and wear the look with cow-girl confidence. Can we get a yee-ha?