A Guide To Recognizing Your (Female) Saints

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Rihanna in Italian Vogue September 2009

It's feeling to me like a Joan of Arc moment! So many of the Fall 09 and now Pre-Fall 10 looks had an element of protectiveness about them, classic pieces reworked in leather, over-the-knee or thigh-high boots, massive shoulders ... Then there was that great spread in Italian Vogue this September featuring Rihanna in metal armor-like shin plates.


Lanvin Fall 07

The Joan of Arc/Warrior Woman look all began in Fall 07 with a seminal runway show from Alber Elbaz for Lanvin. It saw the return of jackets with built-up shoulders and puffed sleeves over slim leggings or pants, metallic dresses and metal grommet trims.


Lanvin Fall 07

I think the shaggy cropped bob still looks cool and ultra-modern.


Acne, S2010

Finally, from Swedish denim brand Acne, designer Jonny Johansson sent jeans to the British jeweler Husam El Odeh, who came back with flexible silver nickel plates to bolt on as knee armor and back-pocket patches.

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