Brocade was a major trend for Fall 2012, and why not? Done up in dark hues, this heavy-looking textile seems like the perfect embellishment for cold weather dressing. But wait, brocade doesn't have to be relegated to heavy layering and dour colors, you say? It can be light and frothy? Some of our favorite designers prove just that with a bevy of brocade looks for Spring 2013. We're seeing beautiful pieces done in confectionary shades with metallic touches that make our most feminine sensibilities stand at attention. Here are some tips on how to wear brocade this season along with some of our favorite pieces to shop now.
Fall's Dark Horse Fabric Transitions to Spring -- Flawlessly
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Ice Blue
The barely-there blue of this frock is so on-target for spring. Seek it out in your brocade hunting adventures. As Suno shows us, coral and light blue are a must-have color combo. You can't go wrong with a geometric pattern, either.
Image: IMAXtree
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Separates
Cropped looks may have made their way down red carpets a few months ago, but are far from "over." Case in point: this look. Make sure your top leaves more to the imagination than not, and you'll be keeping it chic.
Suno image: IMAXtree
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Gold Tipped
The piping on this dress that calls to mind corsetry is sexy, yet subtle, two lovable attributes in clothing.
Jill Stuart image: IMAXtree
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Garden Stroll
Brocade tends to be rendered in delicate patterns, which is why this bold floral pattern feels fresh and makes us wonder if we'll be seeing its like in any of our favorite, more affordable, shops. The square neckline is a historic touch that's been missing for so long, it feels new again. It's ultra flattering, do pick it up if you get the chance.
Badgley Mischka image: IMAXtree
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Think Pink
Marchesa's been having an Eastern Love Moment and we love them for it. This gorgeous fabric needs no adornment. A drape and sweetheart neckline is enough.
Image: IMAXtree
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Sherbet Hued
Your favorite dress can now be a reminder of your favorite summertime popsicle (well, mine anyway). Kidding aside, try orange on for size. It's hardly worn often enough and is a delightful color.
Karen Walker image: IMAXtree
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Lady in Red
What we didn't see on the runways this spring, but is making its way through stores, is the cropped brocade pant. Warmer weather is the time to skip your gray denim skinnies and go for lighter, more fun fare. These red pants can be paired with a sweet cardi set at the office and a sexy tank for cocktails.
$242 at Saks Fifth Avenue.
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Neon
Yep, neon is still a thing. Skip the ubiquitous hot pink and try green instead. It's unexpected and totally fresh.
$629 at Net-a-Porter.
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Cut Out
Cut-outs and brocade might be the ultimate "everything old is new again" mashup. Like with the cropped top, as long as you keep it classy, you can maintain the integrity of brocade while still being modern and sexy.
$170 at Topshop.
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Shorts Style
What would summer be without a pair of hot night-out shorts? If you've been waiting for the dressy shorts trend to go away, you're wasting your time. Might as well grab a pair made of metallic brocade and get the party started.
$295 at Bergdorf Goodman.
