THE FEMME FATALE
women’s fashion forecast f/w 22
The ask
my team and I were tasked with curating a WOMEN’S WEAR Fashion Forecast for fall 2022 based on the current zeitgeist of 2022. Through the use of Research to predict trends surrounding color, fabrics, patterns, prints, trims, and details we created the concept “the femme fatale”.
Our forecast is supported by various runway and street-style references.
The process
mood boards
Our forecast is rooted in confident, assertive, and ambitious women.The overturn of Roe V. Wade in June of 2022 was followed by an intense retaliation against the patriarchy that made the shifting state of feminism in American society even more apparent. Women are reclaiming what it means to be a femme fatale. It is not about being more than man, but about being equal and independent. This state of civil and political unrest has influenced the zeitgeist, which can be characterized by the need to express complete autonomy from external influences through dominance and confidence.
Color story
These color palettes emphasize the contrasting narratives of “The Dark Feminine” and “The Divine Feminine”. The Dark Feminine captures elements representing wealth, success, and glamor, which highlights the importance of an independent woman who makes her own money, loves themselves, and is dominant in every aspect of their lives. Divine Feminine color story plays on the bright, radiant, energy the femme fatale brings to any space. Like Mother Earth, she is a force of nature, and natural elements are used to depict the femme fatale’s connection to self and her surroundings.The contrast shows the duality of a woman.
FABRICS
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Piñatex® by Ananas Anam is a non-woven, semi-synthetic leather made from the cellulose fibers extracted from the leaves of the pineapple plant. Founded by Dr. Carmen Hijosa, Pinatex® is a pioneer in creating more sustainable and ethical alternatives to leather from animal skins.
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Precisely known as Urtica Dioica, the first industrial attempts to use the plant for providing textile fibers traditionally used for rug-making date back to 1850, proving to have a long-standing history as a fiber plant. Stinging nettle thrives in highly nitrogenous and fertilized soils, resolving and compensating for agricultural problems such as over-fertilization and over-production; moreover, because of the plant’s natural resilience, it does not need to be treated with any chemicals or pesticides. These unique properties of nettle make it even softer and stronger than hemp or cotton alone; additionally, the fibers of this plant provide a higher degree thermal insulation that is essential for colder seasons. Nettle denim provides both functional and aesthetic benefits for wearers.
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Velvet originally symbolized royalty and wealth and was made from silk. Stretch velvet made of cotton and spandex make garments more flexible, especially in dresses and tops. Considering the 20-year trend cycle, velvet was used on the runway by Gaultier, Saint Laurent, and Gucci in 2004, which is why stretch velvet will make a bold reappearance in 2024.
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Majority of felt fabrics can be recycled, the eco-friendly nature of the textile is expected to augment the demand for garments made from felted cotton and wool blend among customers (Textile Felt Market, 2020). Cotton and Wool are a cozy staple in fall and winter garments due to their high insulation and softness. It will be seen in sweaters and hooded sweatshirts within ready-to-wear collections.
Prints
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This speedy and stealthy animal symbolizes the Divine Feminine; moreover, female leopard have the most unique social dynamic in the animal kingdom. Leopards’ boldness makes it an eye-catching print, and it is also commonly associated with sexual liberation and an animal-like untamedness.
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The pinstripe suit stood as a symbol of power in the business landscape, but modern styling of women’s power suits have made the classic pinstripe print a symbol of dominance and self-assurance (Kalia, 2019). Additionally, the vertical direction of the stripes helps create a natural illusion of an elongated and slimming silhouette.
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Coco Chanel inspired the wide acceptance of the houndstooth pattern in Europe during the 1920s. Today, “The houndstooth has become not only a textile pattern, but also a universal graphic symbol, often used to raise the status of advertised products” (Dekoma, 2020) It has become sign of wealth, luxury, and elegance. Christian Dior further popularized the pattern in his 1948 Haute Couture SS collection. The iconic two-toned textile pattern was first adopted by the upper class, and even in modern times it has remained chic, classy, and timeless.
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weed is another pattern that is considered a staple in women’s fashion, as it is representative of timeless elegance and quality because of its durability and insulating properties. The original inspiration between tweed is said to come from royal influence, specifically from the Duke of Westminster during the 1920s and 1930s. Tweed encapsulates the desire to find comfort in clothing without having to sacrifice style. Tartan is a distinct pattern that designer Vivienne Westwood uses. It is a fundamental, almost signature, pattern of the Westwood identity and has influence fall and winter fashion designs within the punk community.
the Outcome
street style
The Boss:
This look is a fresh interpretation of power dressing which was popular in the 1970s and 1980s as several women entered the corporate world and became interested in dressing for success.The looks follow the same structure of the double breasted shoulders but offer a fun twist with unique prints and bold colors.
The Siren:
The exposed abdomen and mini and maxi skirt combination exudes confidence and sensuality, reflecting the potent energy and passion of women. Historically, hemlines have mirrored societal attitudes, with shorter lengths symbolizing women’s autonomy and freedom. In response to recent challenges to reproductive rights, the resurgence of mini and maxi skirts signifies a renewed fight for bodily autonomy.
The Diva:
The look incorporates intricate and precise layering, combinines clashing elements, mixing textures, and does not follow rules on proportions and silhouettes. The only rule is there are no rules. Asymmetry, pattern play, and juxtaposing textures and concepts combine to design an unexpected, and enchanting appearance.
Runway looks
The Sensualist:
Derives from the Lover archetype. The look includes short hemlines, high necklines, form fitting designs with a fit and flare silhouette. It incorporates leather, vinyl, mesh, and corsetry to add a romantic and sultry feel to the body. The usage of vibrant pinks, fiery reds and deep purples radiate power and wealth. The form-fitting silhouette draws attention to the shoulders and waist to create a slimming and powerful effect.
The Mystic:
Is a feminine archetype. The ultra long hemline delivers the illusion of an elongated silhouette which offers drama a sense of mystery and magnitude. The usage of leopard pattern, fur trim, leather, silk organza and lace combine to elevate the look and establish mystical opulence.
The Coquette:
Encapsulates the personality of the Huntress archetype. It mixes subversive styles and blends the structure of broad big shoulders while adding emphasis to the body and waistline. The low cut neckline draws attention to the chest while the cut outs and sheer fabrics draw attention to the torso and legs. Altogether the garments flow to create a sophisticated, edgy and sensual interpretation of a modern business woman.
