Hold aGrunge

‘The idea to grunge is to impose a Salvation-Army atmosphere on highly-polished streets.’

So we’ve been told: Grunge is back. The stylish set has started trading in refined and structured pieces of seasons past for cable knits, open weaves and mesh in distinct Viktor and Rolf manner. As rock culture becomes a prime mover in fashion, statement shirts, distressed jackets and bubble skirts reflected in Galliano’s line climb their way to the top of the charts. We’re tuning in to Alexander McQueen’s layered, draped and sweeping fabrics that evoke a feeling of nostalgia. Inspired by Nirvana’s notorious groove, silhouettes defy style standards with wide-legged pants, slouchy tops and overalls. Colors are beyond pale with the return of ’90s heroine chic fashion. Concrete grays, stark blacks and burnt browns are made extra lush by Marc Jacobs, Balenciaga and Comme des Garcons.

Throw in a plaid skirt or a loud tour tee for an ensemble that is partly rebellious, partly collegiate. While some might cringe at the thought of having unwanted bulge from this season’s favorite look, revealing minis and funky tartans show more skin than usual resulting in a sexily undone look. Footwear is big – literally. With Louis Vuitton’s rock-worthy wedged boots, knee-highs from Dior and diva-esque booties from Yamamoto, Fall ’06 is witness to a march unlike any other. Pearl Jam or Alice in Chains? Accessories as prescribed by style scion Lagerfeld are subtle while still in sync with this year’s affection for bling. Chunky chains in silver or gold are encrusted with fine gemstones to give your look that luxe Classic Chanel effect.

Relive the days when unkempt, almost carelessly put-together pieces were key in making a strong fashion statement – that of cinematic melancholy glamorized by the rise of music videos and indie documentaries. Think Reality Bites. This year, fashion interprets the genre that defined Generation X with these requisite pieces. The idea to grunge is to impose a Salvation- Army atmosphere on highly-polished streets. Embrace the anti-thesis to all things prim and proper this season and hold on to a new philosophy that is grunge.

Steady Strums

Speak your mind with a statement shirt. Wear it with figure-flattering minis and layer with a black dress for decisive disarray. Walk tall in this ensemble as a steady strum plays.

Rich in Riff

As grunge utilizes strong musical riffs, this season’s fashion season rocks with new composition. A vest is paired with a paper bag-inspired skirt to create a look that is visually exciting. Still keeping with the trends, you’ll want to throw in a pair of suspenders to give just the right amount of androgyny.

The Pretty Punk

Layer an oversized army jacket over elaborate tops to create interesting contrast. A knee-length skirt will complete the look as it adds a blasé feel to the ensemble.

A Sexy Slouch

Yes, the slouch is back. But this time, it comes with a new brand of attitude. It’s more about confidence as opposed to angst. Who says we have to swallow a bitter pill every so often? A knitted top in neutral colors comes to life when worn with a classic plaid skirt.