New Skirt Shape of a Confused Economy: Hi-Lo Tulip

3.1 Phillip Lim Resort 2010

I was looking at the Resort 2010 collections and noticed that something interesting was going on with the hemlines. No longer is the micro mini or the maxi the new length, but hi-low tulip style skirts seem to be the way to go. Designers like Phillip Lim, Jason Wu, Alice Temperley and Alexander Wang showed this look with Wang pushing hardest with 5 out of 41 looks featuring the new skirt shape.

Perhaps it's because the economic outlook looks uncertain and if you abide by the Hemline Index Theory, designers are not sure where to go next? The Hemline Index theory believes in a relationship between skirt lengths and the economy, in good times the hemlines rise, while in bad they fall. This hasn't seemed true recently but it's an interesting concept nonetheless.

I think this look could be lengthening to the leg, which is a good thing but not for everyone especially for women when hoping to hide upper portions of leg. While the back portion of the skirt is longer the front reveals just as much as a mini, if not more when sitting down. I like Lim and Wang's fluid drapey approach as opposed to Wu and Temperley's approach that may add unwanted hip attention.

Alexander Wang Resort 2010 included multiple Hi-Lo looks

Jason Wu Resort 2010, Temperley Resort 2010

Trend Report: Fringe

Fringe is decorative edging made of hanging threads, strips of fabric, or tassels. It's a great way to add texture to an outfit, and it can add fluidity and movement. Fringe is one hot trend this fall, and below we've got three styles for you to try on.

Also, keep in mind that fringe is not new, so you can find most of these looks at vintage stores (or on eBay), which is more eco-friendly and can be more affordable.


Bohemian Fringe
Sam Edelman Ursula Short Boot $127
Aerosoles Linbo $67
Minnetonka Woodstock $78
For a bohemian look, try fringe made of wider strips, and to avoid looking sloppy, limit this style of fringe to your shoes and accessories. Nothing says hippie love child or Native American princess quite like suede fringe. Try this look with lighter or distressed jeans and a loose sweater. Complete the look with a long beaded necklace or large pendant.


Flapper Fringe
LaROK Cropped Fringe Tank $228
Silence & Noise Flapper Skirt $58
In my mind, the flapper look never went out of style - so chic, so playful, and so feminine. Flapper fringe can be figure flattering, hiding or adding curves if the tiers hit you in the right places.

When buying fringe pieces, examine the layers of fringe. Some cheaper mass market garments will skimp on the tassels, which will make the garment look obviously cheap by exposing the fabric behind the fringe even when the piece is not in motion.

To keep flapper fringe from looking like a Halloween costume, pair with simple, modern accessories such a metal necklace rather than a traditional pearl necklace or pair with contracts such as boots.


Menswear-Inspired Fringe
Perks and Mini Tassels Low Cut Boot $270
Manas Caramel Leather Loafers $65
I love this last look, menswear-inspired fringe on footwear. Pairing masculine and feminine is fun and funky. It's also a little librarian, which is perhaps why the trend hasn't hit mass market retailers just yet. The two links above were the only decent new examples I could find, but there are plenty of vintage options.

My favorites are the old boots that are similar to, but less chunky than Doc Martens with fringe on the toes. If anyone finds a good pair in size 7, holler!