Fashion One features Fall’s Most Coveted Color: Oxblood

The fall/winter 2012 circuit was brimming with autumn trends. Runways were filled with dark leathers, layers of lush velvet and lace, and decadent brocade-like prints. However, amidst all of these lavish ensembles, one color stood out among the rest…enter oxblood.

Also known as burgundy, maroon, or wine…newly named oxblood carries all the richness of red with deep undertones of brown and violet. This “color of the moment” has been painting designer’s collections, covering everything from jackets, blouses, and trousers, to lips and nails. Here are some oxblood hued pieces you should scoop up to have you looking fashionably fresh all winter long.

Jackets/Tops:

Jackets and blazers for fall are a must, not only do they offer warmth in the colder months, but they are also great for layering up. Instead of a traditional tailored look, go for something a bit more edgy, like a motorcycle jacket. Make sure the silhouette is slightly fitted to accent your shape and adorned with excess zipper hardware. Try these styles from All Saints and McQ by Alexander McQueen. If you’re more into the fur trend, wrap up in McQ‘s cropped leather trimmed option. Oxblood blouses this season have striking details while remaining simplistic. Check out Topshop’s mesh and jersey bodysuit with sexy sheer paneling or Alexander Wang’s merino wool sweater with an asymmetrical hemline.

Dresses/Skirts:

Dresses this season fall on two extremes, romantic and minimalist. For an evening out, dress up with Nina Ricci’s ruffled chiffon number. Feeling weekend ready? Try OAK’s long-sleeved jersey dress with a revealing cowl back. Mini skirts are back in focus, designed in supple leather. McQ takes the spotlight with diagonal zippers, while Miu Miu plays up preppy style with their pleated version.

Trousers/leggings:

A fantastic pair of pants are a wardrobe staple. FOIY’s leather paneled trousers or Dorothy Perkins’ coated leggings can be paired with chucky knits or breezy blouses. Stay on trend this fall with textured denim and printed cigarette pants, all decked out in oxblood tones. 7 for All Mankind ‘s version has a pebble glazed sateen finish, while Topshop’s trousers don a geometrical pattern.

Shoes:

Shoes are the perfect way to make a statement. Slip into collection stunners, like structured monkstrap boots from Cole Haan or polished metal toe cap heels by Dune Balmoral. Mix up textures with YSL’s wedge booties. The combination of leather and ultra-suede creates a dramatic effect, while still remaining casual. For something more playful, try Alexander McQueen‘s oxblood ballet flats, decorated with signature crystal embellished skulls.

Handbags/Accessories:

Top off your fall looks with classic glossy handbags or utilitarian satchels. Selections from 3.1 Phillip Lim and Ralph Lauren make it easy to look put together while still wearing the season’s most coveted color. Hats and jewelry are another way to wear the oxblood trend. Try French Connection’s boho floppy hat or Alexander McQueen’s iconic ruby skull cocktail ring.

Lips/Nails:

Just in case you haven’t reached oxblood overload, or if you’re looking to try this trend in moderation, check out these lip colors and polishes. You’ll be mistletoe ready in Guerlain’s holiday collection color, or Stila’s lip and cheek stain. However, a new manicure painted in Deborah Lippmann’s or Laura Mercier’s deep shades are an easy way to add just the right amount of burgundy to your life.

You don’t have to be decked out in head-to-toe oxblood to look fashionable this winter. Find separates that you can add to your closet and still work with pieces you already have. Remember, when shopping, choose a shade that works with your skin’s natural undertones. If you’re more on the rosy side, go for oxblood that’s more on the violoet side; if you’re golden, pick colors with a brown base. Regardless of whether you decide to sport this hue in your wardrobe or on your makeup palette, it’s intensity and popularity prove it’s here to stay…at least until spring.

Author: Megan Lynn Lewis