This year’s fall fashions take inspiration from the Medieval and Renaissance periods, from rich velvet, satin, and brocade to armor-like details and streamlined silhouettes. Below, we showcase the top trends of the season against the architectural backdrop of the American Swedish Institute’s modern Scandinavian edifice.
Dark Romance
The gothic look goes romantic this fall with Victorian-inspired dresses in sheer, soft fabrics.
Veronica Beard dress, $695 @ Grethen House; Stephanie Lake Design necklace, $695, and earrings, $415, both @ stephanielakedesign.com; Gucci sandals, $795 @ Nordstrom
Photos by William Clark, styling by Jahna Peloquin, Hair and Makeup by Fatima Olive. Model: Anita Joo, Ignite Models.
Brocade
The ornate fabric—which was worn to convey social status during the 16th and 17th centuries—has turned up on everything from dresses to coats.
Etro dress, $1,995, Etro jacket, $2,170, and Christian Dior stilettos, $830, all @ Nordstrom; Krewe du Optic sunglasses, $295 @ Mille; Stephanie Lake Design necklace, $1,035 @ stephanielakedesign.com
New Bohemians
Detailed embroidery and billowing sleeves put a fresh spin on this romantic, ’70s-inspired trend.
Fanm Mon dress, $724 @ Mille; Stephanie Lake Design necklace, $315, and cuffs, $1,235 for pair, both @ stephanielakedesign.com; Gucci sandals, $795 @ Nordstrom
Shearling Redux
The classic shearling jacket gets a bold makeover for fall, via chunky patchwork styles and minimalist mod silhouettes.
Fabiana Filippi shearling coat, $2,595, Isabel Marant Étoile turtleneck, $170, Proenza Schouler skirt, $1,450, Valentino studded ankle boots, $1,395, Saint Laurent clutch, $1,290, all @ Nordstrom; Stephanie Lake Design earrings, $275 @ stephanielakedesign.com; Milanastile ring, $70 @ Showroom
Satin & Velvet
Sumptuous satin and velvet get a modern update this season when paired with intricate pleats and folds.
George Moskal top and skirt, price upon request to email@georgemoskal.com; Stephanie Lake Design earrings, $645 @ stephanielakedesign.com; Milanastile ring, $170 @ Showroom; Gucci sandals, $795 @ Nordstrom
In the Navy
This fall, designers have reimagined the iconic Marine Corps uniform via sharp double-breasted coats and dresses.
Veronica Beard dress, $495, Isabel Marant Étoile turtleneck, $170, Brixton hat, $58, and Chloé handbag, $1,950, all @ Nordstrom; Maryam Nassir Zadeh sandals, $395 @ Mille
Go Medieval
Take charge in structured looks that mimic the appearance of armor—softened by rich fabrics and floral embroidery.
Caroline Hayden vest, $2,295, turtleneck, $895, and skirt, $2,995 (contact info@carolinehayden.com to purchase); Milanastile earrings, $59 @ Showroom; Christian Dior stilettos, $830 @ Nordstrom
