Many men view fashion as frivolous, and are unaware of the benefits of watching good-looking people parading on a stage in bizarre-looking outfits. There are, however, many valuable lessons to take away from fashion shows -- whether they're live, televised or simply catwalk pictures -- that can help you make wise wardrobe decisions now and in the future. And with Montreal Fashion Week upon us, there's no better time to find out how to watch a fashion show to the max and pick up killer style tips.
So to be light years ahead of everyone else in the style department, read on to learn what you'll be drooling over in spring 2009 as we tell you how to watch a fashion show. Then check back in daily for more tips, as we'll be dissecting the trends we see emerging at the shows in Montreal.
Identify themes and colors
Though the outfits you see in a fashion show may seem impractical, remember that these are the latest trends in clothing. Instead of dismissing bizarre ensembles, try to discern the overall themes that unite them. For example, at Zegna's New York Spring/Summer ‘09 show, an array of light-colored suits were spotted on the runway, suggesting that suiting up for business is back in vogue, but in the summer, something more sweat-proof is in order. Also, when learning how to watch a fashion show, paying attention to the color scheme will tell you what hues are hot right now. A burnt orange sweater on Pringle of Scotland's Spring/Summer ‘09 runway highlighted the return of ‘70s-influenced autumnal colors in fashion.
Identify cuts
Just as important as the trends in a season are, so are the cuts of garments. When learning how to watch a fashion show, notice whether skinny or tapered pants are in or whether baggier trousers are de rigueur. At Dries Van Noten's Spring/Summer ‘09 show, looser fit pants were shown everywhere, while Pringle, like many other 2009 collections, featured double-breasted blazers, indicating that this jacket style is not one you should be without in 2009.
Pick up on grooming cues
Models have to stay on top of trends in hair and facial hair because it's part of their job. Additionally, stylists will often give models a quick snip backstage to tweak their haircuts so that they look as cutting-edge as possible. You can also get an idea of whether or not certain hairstyles will work for you by figuring out which guy's face shape is most similar to your own. The short, slicked-back hair seen on the Spring/Summer ‘09 runway at Givenchy, for instance, can work with many face shapes and complement the serious and proper suits from the collection.
Identify accessories
Sometimes accessories can really make or break an outfit, so don't neglect them. A fashion show can also provide you with innovative ideas on how to put your accessories together. At Paul Smith, for Spring/Summer ‘09, we saw lightweight scarves in tones like gray that were perfect for more conservative dressers to team with neutral-colored garments or for more daring guys to pair with bright pops of color.
Keep all promotional materials
Should you be fortunate enough to attend a fashion show in person, know that programs, advertisements from stores or up-and-coming labels and any free magazines you can get your hands on are all great resources. Look back at these materials the following day or the next time you want to go shopping as they will remind you of the show, the important trends of the season, what you saw that you thought would work for you, and where you can get it.
catwalk lessons
By now you should understand that you can use what you see in fashion shows as a compass for upcoming trends. Of course, you probably won't shell out big bucks for designer duds, but once you have a good grasp of what to wear in a given season, you'll easily be able to find cheaper alternatives to apply the trends you love to your daily life. So if you haven't done it yet, start taking in fashion shows whenever you can to breathe some fresh air into your personal style and stretch your closet even further.
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