TREND I-SPY

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.

Roberto Cavalli F09 Several designers showed thigh high black leather boots this year and they have every sign of staying around for F10 making them a great investment. Why the longevity of the trend? It's part of a general desire to wrap up in layers that protect against the slings and arrows of our modern world! These photos are from the Cavalli show for Fall 09. It was interesting to me that this designer so well known for Luxe Hippie and overly-embellished Italian styles showed more severe, body-conscious black-on-black looks trimmed with gold grommets. Perfect for the modern Warrior Woman! Jimmy Choo for H&M, $299 Here is another version from Jimmy Choo, part of a great capsule collection from H&M. Again the styling evokes Medieval knights!