TREND SPOTTING

 Sorting through the looks from all the shows of five different cities,we’re now here to  do the heavy lifting for you. We’ve analyzed the best collections from New York, London,  Milan, and Paris to bring you the top trends that will be making the biggest impact on our  wardrobes next fall. Whether you’re looking to bring the interiors out or embracing an  Eastern influence, here’s your cheat sheet to all the top trends from the season:

1. Patchwork has come a long way. It is not just for awesome quilts and fixing jeans anymore. It gives off a chic, laid-back vibe. Some designers have stayed traditional with mismatched pieces of wool arbitrarily sewn together à la Oliver Twist, but others like Derek Lam have streamlined the trend in blocks of suede and supple leather. Since patchwork is typically done in heavier fabrics, fall is the perfect time to incorporate it into your wardrobe. Phive Rivers is soon to introduce a stylish Patchwork range in colourful as well as subtle colours. A mix and match of textured Saffiano leather with smooth Chamonix leather in complimentary colours will give a new definition to the vintage technique.

This idea of quilting—stitching contrasting patterns, colors, and textures—has been utilized by countless cultures for generations, from Egyptian masons to Native American weavers. Patchwork is about creating homogeneity, about telling a coherent narrative from a combination of elements. It’s no wonder why fashion designers, especially this season, are drawn to this chimerical style.

2. Consider this the perfect guide to your next big handbag purchase. The Fall runways gave way to the ultimate wish list of both old styles and fresh trends we can't wait to try out. The new shape this season? Well, let's just say it's hip to be square. Even straps are getting an update, as is your grandmother's tendency to match her dress to her purse. But for those looking for something more timeless, be thankful that the runways were still filled with classic trimmings, like exotic prints and fringe.