FOR THE STYLE FOCUSED, FALL IS LIKE CHRISTMAS MORNING ONE DELIGHTFUL, BRIGHTLY WRAPPED SURPRISE AFTER ANOTHER. WE SURVEYED THE LATEST FROM THE WORLD’S MOST COVETED DESIGNERS AND DISCOVERED A CORNUCOPIA OF COLOR AND CUTTING EDGE INSPIRATION

BY LAURA D.C. KOLNOSKI

ALEXANDER McQUEEN
The head turning ethos of the late British designer continues via his successors at the London fashion house. The autumn/winter 2018 campaign evokes the beauty of nature, the importance of culture, and contemporary society. Women are dressed in softly armored hybrids that are at once respectful of, and at one with, her environment. Blacks, whites, reds, and butterfly themes abound. The men’s line takes inspiration from the spirit and emotion of mid Century artists vulnerable yet powerful, the ultimate in individuality and creativity. Available at CoCo Parì, Deal & Red Bank; cocopari.com

BRAX
Founded in Berlin in 1888 by a master tailor and his wife, the company excels in premium, reliable casual clothing with trousers as its core product. In the changing world of fashion, BRAX, both modern and innovative, is a byword for quality. The “BRAX Feel Good” slogan and design line emphasizes smart, stylish expressions of men’s and women’s fashion trends, whether the theme is classically elegant, sporty, and/or sophisticated. The firm’s brands also include Raphaela by BRAX, Durex by BRAX, BRAX Golf, and BRAX Active with details like hidden zip pockets, stretch fabrics, and flexible waistbands that ensure comfort and the perfect silhouette. Available at Michael Duru Clothiers, Shrewsbury; michaelduru.com

BRUNELLO CUCINELLI
The Italian creative director and the chief executive of his eponymous luxury brand, Brunello Cucinelli has been described as a “philosopher designer.” Esquire named him one of its top 10 best dressed men in 2017. Surveying the house’s fall 2018 line, Vogue noted: “There were subtle tweaks on fi t, which was slightly looser, and on proportions, with jackets and pants slightly longer…effective in giving the look a fresh update.” Italian made fabrics include corduroy velvet, used to make comfortably stylish pantsuits paired with alpaca sweaters. Styling is simple and layered with warm colours, and all is “tastefully blended and balanced.” Available at Garmany, Red Bank; garmany.com

CAMILLA
Founded 14 years ago in Sydney’s Bondi Beach by designer and artist Camilla Franks, CAMILLA home collections. Her signature designer prints, with names line “Space Cowgirl” and “Found in Translation,” pop with red, blue, and bold accent tones this season, rendered in her coveted kaftans, kimonos, dresses, playsuits, pants, and more. Available at SeeSaw, Fort Lee & Tenafly; seesaw boutique.com

CANALI
Canali has been a paradigm of tailor made luxury and men’s elegance for more than 80 years, promoting Made in Italy excellence through artisanal know how. Sartorial masterpieces of exceptional wear ability and comfort balance elements that blend culture and history with style and taste. A family run company, Canali has its own production centers in Italy. Expressing a 1920s aesthetic, the fall/winter collection is the meeting point between classic cuts and contemporary colors, textures, and fabrics, providing the epitome of power dressing for the urban gentleman. The collection creates a modern transition between formal and informal in a blue, Bordeaux, and green. Formal wear reflects refined lines, luminous colors, and luxurious materials. Available at Sal Lauretta for Men, Midland Park; sallauretta.com

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN
Love and imagination rule from the shoe legend this season. Geometric prints, incorporation of the word “Love” on shoes and bags, combinations of red, tan, and white, and the use of stylized yellow measurement tapes as shoe straps and on handbags mix high style with whimsy. Louboutin’s women’s Space Oddity line pays tribute to David Bowie’s transcendent sense of style with studs, silver, and black. Men’s loafers and sneakers echo those themes, mixing street style, casual chic, and formality with animal prints and more. The house’s leather goods, beauty products, and perfumes have all been revamped for fall. us.christianlouboutin.com Available at CoCo Parì, Deal & Red Bank, cocopari.com

CUSHNIE
Cushnie (formerly Cushnie et Ochs) is a luxury American fashion house founded in 2008. Now CEO, Creative Director Carly Cushnie empowers modern women and celebrates diversity and inclusion. Artfully crafted with clean, sculptural lines, the Cushnie collection is precisely tailored to achieve the perfect fi t. Defi ned by the balance of proportion, structure, and fl uidity, the aesthetic embodies a refi ned sense of cosmopolitan minimalism and femininity. The brand graces such infl uential women as Michelle Obama, Gal Gadot, Lupita Nyong’o, Jessica Biel, and Jennifer Lopez. Available at CoCo Parì, Deal & Red Bank; cocopari.com

DOLCE & GABBANA
The famed Italian luxury fashion house was founded in 1985 by designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana. Among their global devotees are actresses Anna Magnani, Sophia Loren, Scarlett Johansson, and Isabella Rossellini. The designers unveiled their fall 2018 “Fashion Devotion” Collection in Italy in February in a church like setting. Vatican City vestment brocades, cut velvet, and sumptuous embroidery defined the main collection, while paying homage to the brand’s 1990s religious themed garments. The collection was modelled by famous offspring, including Destry Spielberg, Renee Stewart, Sofia Richie, Sailor Brinkley Cook, and Dylan Lee, along with Royals Lady Amelia Windsor and Lady Kitty Spencer. Flair on the catwalk came from lace and leopard print dresses, sequined jackets, velvet suits, and jeans decorated with playing cards, rocket ships, and graffiti. us.dolcegabbana.com

ETON
Evolving from Swedish craftsmanship and attention to detail, Eton has been crafting premium shirts since 1928, guaranteeing high quality, impeccable performance, and extraordinary comfort. The original factory and headquarters remain in Gånghester, Sweden. The company’s stock in trade includes the use of exquisite cotton fibers and unique finishing to create long lasting and timeless garments. For autumn, casual and dress shirts with accompanying accessories like ties and pocket squares range from classic solids to bold stripes, statement making checks, denims, and seasonal florals. Available at Garmany, Red Bank; garmany.com

FENDI
From Fashionista.com: “Fendi is feeling the ’80s for fall 2018.” Pieces express urban femininity, mixing typically masculine fabrics with pleating, powerful silhouettes, and an intense color palette. Romantic white dresses embroidered with delicate flowers are eye catching. Fur sweatshirts and Western boots in various leathers were well received, while the double F logo was omnipresent. For the menswear line, plaids and checks in grays and browns set the tone, offset by navy, plum, and olive. Blazers and coats are built with a structural nod to the past. fendi.com

GIANVITO ROSSI

One of the planet’s top footwear designers proves yet again that animal prints and red are perfect together! Seductive and true to its roots, the Gianvito Rossi Fall/Winter 2018-19 Collection offers multiple themes: animal, punk, lace, sparkle, and brogue accents. Silhouettes are sleek and modern, while classics are updated with new proportions and materials. Signatures include the pointed toe pump, slip on booties, high décolleté pump backs, and ankle cuff straps. Refi ned and elegant, the Gianvito Rossi men’s collection has a timeless, ageless look, with just the right amount of edge. Don’t miss this contemporary wardrobe of men’s shoes, each one the very best in class. Available at CoCo Parì, Deal & Red Bank; cocopari.com

GIVENCHY
This season, Artistic Director Clare Waight Keller, formerly of Chloé, celebrates the thrill of where the night may lead. Where her work at Chloé focused on youthful bohemian, her Givenchy creations are sophisticated, smart, and well suited to the modern woman. The Givenchy Night Noir Fall Winter 2018 Collection was called “dark, glamorous, and entirely wearable” by Savoir Flair. Faux fur coats, tailored suits, and chubs were a counterpoint to eveningwear dresses and separates decorated with fringe, bows, and ruffles. Waight Keller also presented her first Givenchy pre collection for men. The 4G emblem and jewellery focused on the zodiac signs drew praise, as did the urban influences and couture sensibility. Savoir Flair noted. givenchy.com

GUCCI
Synonymous with modern luxury fashion, the global brand is now under the everything from the suits his father wore to work to tribal headdresses. More than 100 looks included New York Yankee logos and team patches. Flamboyance was as evident as the Gucci logos, expressed with jewelled embroidery, feathers, sequins, and metallics. Garnering particular attention was a capsule collection inspired by Elton John called “The Levon Lineup.” gucci.com

GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI
When the Italian designing icon’s fall line was introduced, the fashion world swooned. Zanotti delivered a sensual attitude expressed by glamorous choices sandals with crystal covered straps and heels, and oversized boots with statement buttons that keep any look in the spotlight. Studded jackets in soft patent leather epitomize rock pin up allure, while black leggings complement booties adorned by a crystal studded floral motif. The season’s must haves for males include loafers in printed velvet with stylized lightning detailing, ultramodern sneakers, and velvet lace up sneakers contrasting sporty and elegant. This collection is marked by unrestrained beauty, luxury, and originality. Available at CoCo Parì, Deal & Red Bank; cocopari.com

JIMMY CHOO
Captivating and cosmopolitan, Jimmy Choo Fall 2018 pulsates with urban kudos blended with signature glamorous spirit. Discover the iconic ‘I WANT CHOO’ pieces, new styles of Lancer and Lockett, and a focus on red, rose, and chalk colours. The kellygreen women’s Mischa open toed strap suede dress shoe, adorned with a stunning, sparkly circular buckle, is ideal for holiday wear. “New Choos” for men emphasize style, comfort, and individuality. “Man Blue” is a new fragrance suitable for giving and living. Available at CoCo Parì, Deal & Red Bank; cocopari.com

JITROIS
Innovative and luxurious describe the iconic leather brand with a French subversive mindset. The fashion house was famously created by a former health professional, author, and lecturer who treated children with learning difficulties, dressing them in hand made costumes to help them feel comfortable. This fall, the house is all about leather and suede in black, cherry, Indian pink, and ash green replete with zippers, cutwork, and sexy embellishments. Long coats, jackets, skirts, accessories, and more beckon confident, fashion forward women, while men can find expression in jackets, pants, shirts, and tee shirts. Available at CoCo Parì, Deal & Red Bank; cocopari.com

LAFAYETTE 148 NEW YORK
Drawing inspiration from architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Creative Director Emily Smith created a versatile fall collection rich in texture and pattern, defined by dimension and depth for the women’s fashion brand named after its SoHo address. Colours reflect the autumnal season oranges, vino, spruce green, and saffron red. The blue sky is represented, as are coming winter shades. Sophisticated, clean lined designs fuse luxurious fabrics, outstanding craftsmanship, and a modern sensibility. Soft fall suits, bomber jackets, blazers, vests, and sumptuous options in leather and suede are ideal seasonal transition garments. Dresses are crafted from velvet, crepe, silk, and Italian stretch twill. The brand also includes an impressive line of plus sized classic pieces. Available at Emily’s, Staten Island; emilysny.com

MAC JEANS
The fashion company was founded in 1973 in Germany. Today, it is a leading manufacturer of men’s trousers, selling more than 6 million pairs per year. The company’s philosophy focuses on perfect fi t, above average quality, exceptional value, and above all highly fashionable products. A wide range of colours and style preferences can be seen throughout the firm’s offerings in jeans, pants, shorts, and jackets. Mac-jeans.com. Available at Tessuto Menswear, Somerville; tessutomenswear.com

MEZLAN SHOES
Mezlan is a specialty factory located in Spain’s shoe making region and run by owner, designer, and President Antonio Sanchez. The leather design house creates a heritage brand rooted in authentic surroundings, melding past and present. The brand embraces evolving footwear technologies while retaining artistry and tradition. Each style is adorned with its own personality using creativity, balance, honed skill, and passion. New for fall are exclusive styles in shoes and accessories from loafers to lace ups, boots, spectators, moccasins, and athleisure in classic and unexpected colors with distinctive detailing. Available at Michael Duru Clothiers, Shrewsbury; michaelduru.com

M MISSONI
Dedicated to young, sophisticated women, M Missoni’s Fall 2018 Collection provides a total look easily recognizable on an international level thanks to its distinct style: casual, cool, and chic enhanced by versatility. This fall’s palette, patterns, and prints demonstrate a keen sense of taste. Motifs are inspired by nature, art and architecture, and different cultures. Pieces are made with practical, comfortable materials, are easy to mix and match, and are intended to be worn around the clock through passing trends. The warmth of the colours and the vitality of the prints capture a contemporary cosmopolitan feel. Available at THEO, Red Bank; theoclothier.com

NICOLE MILLER
The renowned American fashion designer is known for her graphic prints, innovative silhouettes, and skill full draping. Born to a French mother, Nicole was trained at the Rhode Island School of Design and the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in Paris, hence her mastery of classic techniques. Her brand launched in 1992, becoming renowned for popularizing the little black dress. Loyalists include Angelina Jolie and Blake Lively. Women’s Wear Daily reported that Miller decided not to offer a specific theme this season but instead searched for everyday realism. A combination of masculine and feminine references dominated the lineup, which featured a wide range of sartorial elements mixed with military and romantic details. Feminine looks in floral blouses and a handkerchief dress were called “lovely, chic, and nicely uncomplicated.” Hollywood Life Editor Bonnie Fuller described the collection as “confident and kick ass.” Available at Emily’s, Staten Island; emilysny.com

OSCAR DE LA RENTA
Graceful feminine detailing is the hallmark of the late master’s design descendants. Originally from the Dominican Republic, de la Renta became internationally known in the 1960s as one of the couturiers who dressed Jacqueline Kennedy. This fall, the house presents delicate fl orals and undulating vines in “flower harvest” motifs. Saffiano mini Tro Bags are adorned with large, cheerful flowers; evening versions sparkle with Swarovski crystals. Dress mules and evening gowns echo the daywear themes, and a vast jewellery collection ensures the right accents for any look. Don’t miss the Mykonos Collection of resort wear and pieces rendered in holiday red plaid. oscardelarenta.com

PINKO
Founded in the late 1980s by CEO Pietro Negra and his wife, Cristina Rubini, this season the house presents a sexy, sporty style remix for the strong yet feminine woman. The PINKO image was visually crafted by photographers like Terry Richardson, working with supermodels like Naomi Campbell and Alessandra Ambrosio. The collections stand out for their unique, eclectic, original, and contemporary style with purple, black, and gray prominent in bags and shoes. Dresses this fall focus on florals on black, shades of tan, ruffles, block colours, and stripes. Available at THEO, Red Bank; theoclothier.com

STENSTRÖMS
Stenströms originated in Sweden, and embodies a long standing tradition of crafting high quality shirts. Founded in 1899 by August Stenström, it is still a family owned company with a reputation for making elegant shirts for stylish men who care about attention to detail. It’s the brand of choice for the Swedish King and Queen. This fall’s men’s line boasts sumptuous ties, shirts, sweaters, accessories, silk ties, quilted vests, and Merino sweaters. Available at Tessuto Menswear, Somerville; tessutomenswear.com

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO
Prior to his death in 1960, the late Salvatore Ferragamo realized his dream: creating and producing beautiful shoes. His muse, Marilyn Monroe, was the inspiration behind the classic Ferragamo pump. His family carried that dream forward, transforming the brand into a renowned fashion house. For its fall/winter campaign, the house uses an international “Patchwork of Characters” to present its newest creations. The Fall/Winter 2018 Women’s Collection celebrates dynamic, confident women. Timeless elegance is mixed with fun details for women who love playing with style. For men, timeless elegance is celebrated and reinterpreted with modern and trendy accents. As always, the focus remains on excellent craftsmanship and high end Italian quality. The Ferragamo Studio Bag is termed “essential.” Available at Garmany, Red Bank; garmany.com

STEPHEN YEARICK
For evening glam, the Yearick name is a standout for elegance and exceptional attention to the fi nest details. Lace, illusion, and trumpet skirts dominate the exclusive creations. The New York based high fashion house sparkles in myriad ways. Beyond black and white, gowns in eye popping hues offer back, shoulder, hem, and silhouette embellishments splashed with beaded artwork, feathers, and capes. Pant looks and jumpsuits make the scene, and various sleeve lengths expand options. Available at Diane & Co., Freehold Township; dianeandcoonline.com

STUART WEITZMAN
Supermodel Gisele Bundchen is the face, and feet, of the fall campaign for footwear from Stuart A. Weitzman, American shoe designer, entrepreneur, and founder of his company. From the multi coloured and multi faceted glass heel of his Comet pumps, sandals, and booties to the country girl vibe of the Casey suede boot, it’s easy to see why Weitzman is the choice of celebrities including Beyoncé and Taylor Swift. There are also suede and leather sneakers, bags, totes, satchels, and a statement making jewelry collection with key fobs. Available at Garmany, Red Bank; garmany.com

THEORY
Twenty years ago, this brand created pants with stretch fabric that hugely affected how American women dress. When Theory for Men was established, similar foundation principles were used, further maximizing highly functional, stylish clothes. Versatile, sophisticated, and easy to wear, Theory’s seasonal collections are designed and built on smart, essential pieces. Of the current men’s line, Women’s Wear Daily observed: “Fabrics and construction methods brought technical details to the collection, resulting in laser cut blazers made from nylon stretch, knit trousers, and a lightweight puffer coat.” The company’s Good Wool program offers pieces made with yarn from a New Zealand farm and manufactured in an environment friendly way. The palette ranges from a deep camel, maroon and mustard to stone, white, and cobalt blue. theory.com

THE ROW
Former child actresses and famous twins Ashley and Mary Kate Olsen (Full House) established The Row in 2006, naming it after London’s Savile Row. The label preserves the bespoke standards of exquisite fabrics, impeccable details, and perfect silhouettes in both the women’s and menswear collections. Collections for men and women explore the strength of minimalistic shapes in interpretations based on understated basics. For fall, the runway spotlight shone on trench coats, roll neck sweaters, wide pants, and bathrobe coats accessorized with small shoulder bags and mid height stiletto boots. therow.com

TOM FORD
Texas born Ford studied architecture at Parsons School of Design in New York City, eventually becoming creative director at Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche. He created his own brand in 2005. Today, it is recognized as the choice of finely tailored men and women. Lauren Hutton, Brad Pitt, Howard Stern, Daniel Craig, George Clooney, and Michelle Obama are all Ford fans. Seated in the front row at his runway show were Julianne Moore, Elizabeth Banks, and Zayn Malik. Vogue observed: “There will be wait lists for Ford’s sparkly sweatshirt, which he accessorized with leopard print leggings, one of many pairs in many different materials that gave this collection its athletic mien.” Fashionista lauded Ford’s “practical pieces for everyday wear.” tomford.com

TWINSET
Founded in Capri in 1987, the Italian fashion house began with the union of a cardigan and a sweater. International outlook and harmony are at the heart of the designs, seen on models like Emily Ratajkowski and Tina Kunakey. Collections are designed for strong, sophisticated women who enjoy combining romantic applications, such as sequins, tulle, and embroidery, with striking prints and bolder materials including leather, studs, and technical fabrics. Fashions are characterized by technological innovations paired with sensitivity through skills such as embroidery, hand made appliqués, and unconventional printing and dying techniques. Available at SeeSaw, Fort Lee & Tenafly; seesaw boutique.com

VALENTINO
From the World of Valentino comes men’s and women’s fall collections awash in “overlapping memories, a sense of surprise, romanticism, hues, and emotions imprinted between the intarsias and in the weavings.” Bold VLTN Collection pieces are available in both the men’s and women’s lines. For women, pops of color and animal prints rendered in black and white or in tan, black, and white spark the imagination. Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccolo, formerly of Fendi, strove for “street meets culture” across a wide array of apparel, shoes, bags, jewelry, eyewear, fragrances, and accessories. Karlie Kloss, Dakota Fanning, and Kate Hudson are among the A listers wearing Valentino on red carpets worldwide. The men’s line boasts bomber jackets, trench coats, tracksuits, suits, baseball caps, and sneakers. Available at CoCo Parì, Deal & Red Bank; cocopari.com

VERONICA BEARD
Two sisters in law named Veronica, who married brothers, are the namesakes heading up this American women’s line launched in 2010 with its signature Dickey Jacket, an essential layering piece that remains popular. An East Coast meets West Coast style emanates from the expanded collection of jeans, shoes, sweaters, blouses, dresses, skirts, and accessories, which combine to create a chic and effortless wardrobe. Fall romance, luxe layers, and a Western edge are the hallmarks of the seasonal offerings, striking a balance between cool and classic. Designed with feminine silhouettes and refined tailoring, the collection is built for real life, empowering women from day to night, work to weekend, and in between. Available at Garmany, Red Bank; garmany.com

VERSACE
Always provocative, Donatella Versace and her team present “wild prints” in riveting color combinations. A jungle cat prowls the signature velvet dress, complemented by Borocco print sandals in similar hues; the matching shoulder bag is a standout. Tartans, vibrant mega mix prints, and “clash” prints in primary and jewel tones distinguish the fall women’s collection. Matching ensemble pieces reflect the brand’s edgy, sexy vibe. Animal prints also headline the men’s fall collection, with its Mock Croc Medusa Chain Loafers and the Chain Reaction line of brightly coloured sneakers. Jackets and coats, bags and backpacks, waist bags and weekenders all exude the Versace flair. Many echo items from the women’s line, suggesting intriguing couple ensembles. For true and wannabe rock stars, the Separio Print Denim jacket and the Medusa Pop Foulard Print blazer comply. versace.com

YSA MAKINO
From Tokyo to New York and Europe, runways and red carpets are graced with Makino’s sensuous designs. Since its 2000 Milan debut, the house’s sumptuous evening gowns have been worn by Alicia Keys, Jane Seymour, Mariah Carey, and Reba McEntire. YSA Makino strives to produce a visual experience with impeccable quality. The house’s tailors, artists, and embroiderers are highly experienced with skilled techniques in embroidery and tailoring, ensuring a precise fit coupled with the brilliant use of color and detailing to produce masterful artistic creations. Available at Diane & Co., Freehold Township; dianeandcoonline.com

YVES SAINT LAURENT
The late and revered French fashion designer, known for incorporating elegance and comfort into his creations, founded his eponymous label in 1961. The first customer in the company’s Rive Gauche store was actress Catherine Deneuve. He’d credited with, among other things, approaching style with a perspective that desired women to look comfortable yet elegant simultaneously, famously saying once that he wished that he’d invented blue jeans, which, to him achieved both goals beautifully. (“They have expression, modesty, sex appeal, simplicity all I hope for in my clothes,” he said).

YSL’s fall’s collection debuted across from the Eiffel Tower. According to Women’s Wear Daily, Creative Director Anthony Vaccarello said he was inspired by the Russian collection of Saint Laurent, but with a bit more of a Parisian direction. An all black women’s lineup features versatile leathers, romantic blouses, and decorative flourishes including black leather shorts. The men’s line started with a lean silhouette with volume emanating from outerwear from parkas and bomber jackets to a dramatic Dracula cape tossed over a sweater and trousers. ysl.com