Trend: Casual Folk

Unsurprisingly, the fashion world's interest in the 70s has resulted in a folk feeling that has permeated many stylistic propositions of the moment. Fashion reminder: the cashmere prints, handmade embroideries, gypsy flowers and other artisan details that are invading the fashionista's closets are better off worn dressed down.

Given the latest Vogue cover and the recent fashion editorials in the trend magazines, the tribal, country and even bohemian folklore looks that were so present in the 70s rock festivals seem to have become the keystone look for fall.

The incredibly romantic allure of the shows and the cozy ambiance of the fashion shoots might easily inspire the fashionista to buy this kind of trend as-is and on-sight.

However, it would be a good idea to remember that the clothing compositions developed by the Condé Nast stylists usually tend more towards exaggeration than practical usage.

As of now, following the example of numerous fashionistas having already understood how to intelligently appropriate this trend (i.e., by avoiding looking like Laura Ingalls roaming around the prairie), we will consider softening the contours of our folk pieces by associating them with looks that are casual-to-roots.

The olive, oversized, boyish parkas can be rendered more aesthetic with a few exotic embroideries (Dries Van Noten), whereas a printed satin cashmere jacket will go well with a pair of black slims, boots and easy hair. As for the long printed skirts, they should avoid furs and ancestral looking jewelry in favor of a pair of boots and a cropped denim jacket.

In other words, if this season is about folk digressions, they should be balanced by slightly grunge, dominatingly casual pieces, or consumed in small doses; i.e., a long Kenzo dress would warm up well under a black leather jacket; high-waisted pants will love to be belted with a Native American artisan belt; and a minimalist navy blue look could be given a twist with hippie style earrings.