How to wear colour at work

Wearing colour with black trousers makes it acceptable in the office

Brightly coloured pants

Don't think we're doodling in those notebooks we keep out during runway shows—they're filled to the binding with trend notes and observations. And don't think we're flipping through all the fall fashion show images online for sheer pleasure—we're cataloging them, grouping them, and filing them. As for our sleeping schedules? Not important—as long as we've compiled the ultimate list of fall '11 trends that are actually relevant to you. From the color you're going to be stocking up on to new takes on old favorites that'll have you looking at your wardrobe in a whole new way, here are the 2011 fall trends you'll be seeing everywhere very soon.

Brightly Colored Pants



Whether they were cropped, flared, tapered, or high-waisted, the hottest shapes of the season also came in super-saturated hues, perfectly for punching up the clean silhouettes for fall. 

TREND SPOT: Satin Pants

Satin pants are still on my mind. And who could blame me? A light, fluid fabric is the perfect choice for the summer. Take a look!

Fuchsia, turquoise and white pantsuits at Adam.

The abundance of accessories continues the flashy theme of the satin pants at Diane von Fuerstenberg and Maurizio Pecoraro. That asymmetrical jade necklace is to die for!

Monochromatic but in no way boring at Doo.Ri.

Cropped oversize pants work whether you prefer the clean bare look at Badgley Mishka or the heavily patterned ensemble at Marc Jacobs.

Fancy oversize at Derecuny and lots of hips at Celine and Ohne Titel.

TREND SPOT: TIE-TOP PANTS

As hot summer days turn into chilly fall evenings, we’re looking for versatile garment that can pull a double duty. One of the summer’s trends that can easily be carried over to fall are the tie-top pants. What exactly are tie-top pants, you say? They are similar to harem pants in that they are loose, but the waist is gathered with a string, belt or bow. Depending on the fabric and the styling, they can be dressy or casual. As with other loose styles, tie-top pants are practically begging for a tucked-in shirt to emphasize the figure. Here’s some inspiration on how to add this style to your swag collection.


Roberto Cavalli keeps it loose and layered, don’t forget the heels for a feminine touch.

Matthew Williamson – always a Zebreezy favorite – is never afraid of color. Here’s a sophisticated take on tie-dye and a couple of super trendy work-appropriate looks. I still can’t get over those shoes!

A shiny, crispy fabric makes Isaac Mizrahi’s looks more formal. Even though he continues the oversize theme with the jacket, the skintight body underneath is the figure-flattering focal point.

Burberry offers an updated rider-look and a fun way to wear your strappy sandals in the fall.

Whether it’s a loose pull over or a button-up sweater, Sonia Rykiel and Tory Burch show you that you can still tuck it in.

Jenny Kayne channeling a hippie vibe.

And for those holding on to summer just a little longer, a few short looks. Tie-top bubble skirt at Matthew Williamson.

Shorts work too, at Thakoon and Tory Burch.

Printed Pantaloons - A summer runway hit!

Printed trousers will instantly electrify your summer wardrobe

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Pleats please

I'm fully digging pleated pants at the moment - it took me a while to warm up to these, but now I'm a full blown (paid up and carded) fan. Here are a few outfits.

I love pairing such a masculine pant with pieces that have have fun, feminine embellishment like sequins and bows - whilst still letting the cut and strength of the pant take centre stage. I love them paired with an endearingly frumpy "serious bag" - solid, reliable.

Top Row: Boy By Band Of Outsiders Double Pleat Pants, Topshop Sequin Crop Vest, Marsell Open Toe Back Strap Low Boots.

Middle Row: Chloe Bow Embellished Suede Pumps, Boy By Band Of Outsiders Paperbag Pant, Lanvin Gloria Leather Bag.

Bottom Row: Topshop Striped Gold Button Cardi, Chloe Small Marlow Top Handle, Alexander Wang Sheer Back Sweatshirt,

Sources: Topshop, Net-A-Porter, La Garconne, Luisaviaroma

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Paper bag Anyone?

Paperbag Waistlines at Issac Mizrahi, Zac Posen, and Marc by Marc Jacobs.

Style tip? Spring 2009 is characterized by selective volume - on slouchy pants, poufy sleeves, and and bubble shaped skirts. The paperbag waistline is a fresh take on selective volume - plus the naturally high waistline can visually elongate the leg and make you look taller (or allow you to wear cropped pants).

What do you think? Would you wear pants with a paperbag waistline? Share your thoughts in the comments!