I like to think designers had me in mind (vain I know) when these looks debuted on the runway. A quick look at my personal outfits as documented in my style diary shows I am for the ‘usually-layered’ party. Dresses worn over trousers and I have long been happy bedfellows.

What stood out to me in particular with these catwalk looks was where the focus of the layering was. The actual layering gathers force waist down, taking shape in the form of the midi length (in the case of Chanel it was knee length) skirt/dress/coat over narrow cropped pants.

Layering is by no means new but the focus on the bottom half in conjunction with the particular proportions and length of the garments makes this feel fresh.

I’d oh so rather be wearing this new look!

What would you rather be wearing?

There is something rather grown up about the fall 2012 palette. The naive sugary easter egg pastel hues are replaced by berry hues, rust, ochre and etc. I particularly like the inclusion of navy blue. It can render rather somber but it is always put-together, always sophisticated.

What would you rather be wearing?

Versace fall 2012 | Alberta Ferretti fall 2012 | Dolce & Gabbana fall 2012 | Gucci fall 2012 | Images in collage via Style.com

More looks I’d rather be wearing.