The most prominent trend is the re-emergence of '80s fashions. From sharp-shouldered jackets and disco dresses to day-glo accessories and fingerless gloves, the presence of the '80s is everywhere. Many of the fashions from Giorgio Armani, Marc Jacobs, Donna Karan and Diane von Furstenberg are influenced by the culture of the times, with film at the forefront of inspiration. Movies such as Desperately Seeking Susan starring Madonna and Body Double with Melanie Griffith, epitomize the punk rock feeling that resonates on the runways for fall 2009.
"Movies offer a compelling fantasy world where anything is possible," says Stephanie Solomon, Fashion Director for ready-to-wear at Bloomingdale's. "Film has a way of captivating and inspiring its audience, including most notably, classic American designers such as Michael Kors and Ralph Lauren. These designers looked to the trends and cultural influences of the 1980s and reinterpreted its finest moments to create a modern look for fall 2009."
Other decades making their way onto the fall fashion scene include the 1950s and 1960s, inspired by American movie classics such as High Society, and the 1920s, through an ode to romance films with a European flair like Dr. Zhivago.
To further celebrate the influence of movies in fashion, Bloomingdale's has partnered with major movie studios to give away more than 30,000 movie tickets to its customers through various gift-with-purchase promotions. In addition, select Bloomingdale's stores will recreate the mystery and enchantment of the Amelia Earhart story with pop-up shops featuring merchandise inspired by the upcoming film based on her life, Amelia, starring Hillary Swank and Richard Gere. The shops will carry clothing and accessories with an aviation twist from designers such as Burberry and Ralph Lauren.
Trends taking over the season
TAKE 1...The '80s Are Back
The strong-shouldered jacket is this season's answer to the boyfriend blazer. Donna Karan, Marc Jacobs and Giorgio Armani all showed strong-shouldered jackets in their fall 2009 runway collections. Along with leggings, it changes the silhouette of the moment to an inverted triangle. The jacket is the perfect look for work, evoking strength and self-confidence. It can also be worn over a dress for a newly defined and sophisticated evening outfit.
Dazzling disco dresses and mini skirts in shimmering brocade, shiny gold lame or covered in sequins, reference the club culture of the '80s. One-shoulder micro minis and peek-a-boo cutouts are two must-haves for the power party girl. Nanette Lepore embraced this flashy trend of sequined t-shirts and micro-minis, as she sent multiple glittery pieces down the runway in her fall '09 collection. Jackets and liquid leggings in silver, bronze, black and gold lame and embellished with studs, zippers and chains offer additional ways to shine.
Acid brights. Reminiscent of the Stephen Sprouse era of neon graffiti, day-glo colors are making their way back onto the scene. Gone are the days of black, winter white and grey as staple fall colors. Shocking pink, orange, acid green, cobalt, chrome yellow, and orchard are just some of the bright colors pervading the runway collections of Yigal Azrouël, Michael Kors and Marc Jacobs.
Knits. With generous proportions and chunky stitches, knits are sure to be a real hit for fall 2009. Bold colors and familiar patterns such as fair isle were seen all over the runways from Matthew Williamson and Michael Kors, to Missoni and Ralph Lauren. Mixing color and pattern, layering of chunky knits over skinny pants or leggings masters the perfect balance needed to create that inverted triangle trend that is so hot this season. Also making a statement on the runways were knit and fur cowls. They are an integral punctuation mark to the layered look for the season.
Over-the-knee boots dominated the runway in New York, Milan and Paris. Worn like leggings with the ever-present bold-shouldered jacket and mini skirt, these thigh-high boots look rich in leather and suede, and are best in black. The short boot also appeared on several runways as the punk answer to fall footwear. Colorful, short, lace-up "work boots" and pull on leather boots with details like crystals and studs are sure to add a rock 'n' roll appeal to any outfit.
Leggings, hosiery and gloves. Liquid leggings and shiny tights will be the standout choices for this season, but fishnets, ribbed knit tights, and animal prints are all important layering pieces. Gloves have the upper hand in fashion this season. Leather gloves look fresh and add the finishing touch to the '80s mood. Often embellished with zippers and studs, fingerless gloves as seen at Chanel, and Alberta Ferretti are a surefire way to channel one's inner Material Girl.
Disco bags, most often seen in leather with long chains or leather straps, can be worn cross body or swinging at your side. The bag is the perfect compliment to the disco dress, and should be just big enough for a cell phone and a lipstick.
Star shades. The newest looking shape to emerge for the season is the shield. This powerful looking sunglass shape, shown most memorably by Gucci and Marc Jacobs, is perfect for assertive girl who knows that she is a star.
Take 2...American Movie Classics
Button-down shirts nipped at the waist as shown by Ralph Lauren are reminiscent of Katherine Hepburn in the mid 1900s. Often paired with slouchy menswear trousers or cigarette pants, this trend understands sophistication and elegance, and will stand the test of time.
The little black dress has staying power as it transcends decades, age groups and changing trends. Along with the sheath dress, these two styles offer recession-proof quality and a perfectly timeless appeal.
Novelty patterns create the layered effect that is so prominent this season. Tweed, plaid, houndstooth and pinstripe are just a few of the patterns seen on the runways of Giorgio Armani that evoke memories of classic American film stars like Grace Kelly.
Take 3...Romance Classics
Russian inspired prints and furs are two top trends that appeared in Chanel's fall '09 collection. Julie Christie in Dr. Zhivago made the fur hat a memorable accessory that exudes luxury and flair. Jewel tones such as green, red and gold as well as highly embellished materials were also incorporated to create the opulence was so prominent ancient Russia.
Military details that adorn navy and charcoal colored coats and jackets for the fall are also essential to the 1920s inspired trends. Boots with buckles and military hats are two accessories that add a tough, structured element that compliments this regal era.
Fashion and pop culture have always shared a symbiotic relationship, and this fall season is no exception. Fashion has reverted back to classic styles that remind us of a different time, seeking inspiration from the whimsical and romanticized world of film.
Bloomingdale's to Support amfAR with Fashionable Fundraiser in Black & White
For the seventh year in a row, Bloomingdale's will host a charity shopping night in each of its stores—the Fashionable Fundraiser in Black and White. Held each February and August, the Fashionable Fundraiser helps raise awareness and funds for national and local charities. This August, Bloomingdale's will partner with amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, for the four-day event, running from Thursday, August 27 through Sunday, August 30.
Fashionable Fundraiser in Black and White invites shoppers to support Bloomingdale's and its involvement in its communities. Customers will have the opportunity to shop for a cause, enjoy special offers, and learn more about amfAR and how to get involved in their own communities. Bloomingdale's pledges to make a donation of $75,000 to amfAR, which the organization will use in support of its global programmatic efforts in the fight against AIDS.
"Bloomingdale's has a long-standing history of supporting AIDS research, and we are proud to continue to aid the fight with this season's Fashionable Fundraiser in Black and White," says Michael Gould, chairman and CEO of Bloomingdale's. "What better partner could we ask for than amfAR, an organization that has helped to advance AIDS research in leaps and bounds since its inception, and gotten this world ever closer to a cure."
Designer Kenneth Cole, chairman of the board of amfAR, has designed a t-shirt exclusively for Bloomingdale's for the Fashionable Fundraiser in Black and White. The black tee proclaims in red and white writing, "Make the Most of Wearing Times," in classic Kenneth Cole style. Seventy-five percent of the $35 retail price of the tee will go directly to amfAR.
"amfAR is grateful to Bloomingdale's for its generosity and its forward-thinking philanthropic leadership," said Cole. "We applaud them for recognizing the importance of supporting cutting-edge research and for keeping AIDS in the public eye."
The tee will be showcased on the "Good Deeds" wall—a new addition to stores this fall. The "Good Deeds" wall will highlight products that support charities and other various causes. Beginning with Fashionable Fundraiser, the wall will be seen in all stores, with a rotating selection of products, through the Holiday season.
The black and white theme, which is a Bloomingdale's signature, will play out in surprising and delighting ways throughout the stores. A Black and White movie quiz will be placed randomly throughout each store, leading shoppers to the Good Deeds wall. Once there, they can select a mystery envelope and win a prize. A $1 donation will be made to amfAR for each person who completes the quiz.
In addition, customers can have their photos snapped in black and white photo booths or drawn by sketch artists, black and white cookies will satiate hungry shoppers, and shoppers can even watch classic black and white movies in special viewing lounges.
Turner Classic Movies (TCM) plays a vital role in Bloomingdale's fall film campaign, and has curated the selection of black and white movies screening in stores. And, the network, which is the authority in classic films, has loaned Bloomingdale's its extensive collection of photographs. The "Hollywood's Leading Ladies" and "Hollywood's Leading Men" black and white photograph exhibits will be on display in each store throughout the fall season.
In addition, they have provided prizes for the BQUIZ storewide movie trivia game. One grand prize winner will be chosen from each region to receive a TCM Movie Library, complete with 80 of cinema's greatest films. A second prize winner in each store will receive a TCM gift basket. Additional winners will take home a TCM crossword puzzle book.
Bloomingdale's is America's only nationwide, full-line, upscale department store; and a division of Macy's, Inc. It was founded in 1872 and currently operates 40 stores in New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Illinois, Minnesota, Georgia, Florida, Nevada and California. For more information, or to shop any time, visit www.bloomingdales.com.
amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, is one of the world's leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to the support of AIDS research, HIV prevention, treatment education, and the advocacy of sound AIDS-related public policy. Since 1985, amfAR has invested nearly $290 million in its programs and has awarded grants to more than 2,000 research teams worldwide.
Merchandise List
1. Biker Jacket and Mini Skirt
Vendor: Theory
Color: Blue Topaz
Style: Short Sleeve Shirt with buttons
Price: $85.00
Vendor: Theory
Color: Brown
Style: Leather Jacket
Price: $795.00
Vendor: Diane Von Furstenberg
Color: Bloomsbury Check
Style: Layered Mini Skirt
Price: $275.00
Vendor: Sutton Studio
Color: Black
Style: Beret
Price: $62.00
Vendor: Michael Kors
Color: Deep red
Style: Leather Clutch
Price: $198.00
2. Fargo
Vendor: Theory
Color: Azurite Combo
Style: Long Sleeve Button Down Wrinkled Plaid
Price: $275.00
Vendor: Victorinox
Color: Red
Style: Ultra Light Down Vest
Price: $195.00
Vendor: John Varvatos
Color: Dark Denim
Style: Straight Leg Jean
Price: $165.00
Vendor: Jack Spade
Color: Navy
Style: Field Bag
Price: $195.00
3. Power Suit Acid Brights
Vendor: Tahari
Color: Chartreuse
Style: Silk Short Sleeve Blouse
Price: $148.00
Vendor: Tahari
Color: Black
Style: Suite Jacket
Price: $168.00
Vendor: Tahari
Color: Black
Style: Suite Pant
Price: $128.00
Vendor: Burberry
Color: Black
Style: Tote Slouch Bag
Price: $850.00
4. Southern Comfort
Vendor: Theory
Color: White
Style: Halifax Long Sleeve Button Down
Price: $145.00
Vendor: John Varvatos
Color: Beet Root
Style: Cashmere V-Neck Sweater
Price: $550.00
Vendor: John Varvatos
Color: Black
Style: Virgin Wool Suite
Price: $1595.00
Vendor: Hugo Boss
Color: Black
Style: Suite Pants
Price: $175.00
Vendor: Z Zegna
Color: Dark Grey Fan
Style: Tie
Price: $125.00
Vendor: Tumi
Color: Black
Style: Deluxe Portfolio
Price: $195.00
5. 80's, Disco, Mini, Fur Vest
Vendor: Aqua
Color: Plum
Style: Tunic
Price: $58.00
Vendor: Aqua
Color: Black
Style: Fur Reversible Vest
Price: $248.00
Vendor: John Varvatos
Color: Black
Style: Virgin Wool Suite
Price: $1595.00
Vendor: Hugo Boss
Color: Black
Style: Suite Pants
Price: $175.00
Vendor: Aqua
Color: Black
Style: Spandex
Price: $48.00
Vendor: Aqua
Color: Charcoal
Style: Sequin Mini Skirt
Price: $88.00
Vendor: Marc Jacobs
Color: Purple
Style: Sunglasses
Price: $98.00
Vendor: Bloomingdale's
Color: Black
Style: Fingerless Gloves
Price: $78.00
