Baroque is the period of history when western art challenged the 1600s.
The style started in Rome and spread to most of Europe. Full, loose sleeves ended just below the elbow by the mid-century and became longer and tighter in keeping with the new trend.
The body was tightly corseted, with a low, broad neckline and dropped shoulders. In later decades, the overskirt was drawn back and pinned up to display the petticoat.
The Baroque trend is this winter’s most lavish look. Opulent flocked fabrics and 17th century-style separates are this season’s most exciting fashion pieces and are perfect for the impending party season.
From a Baroque skirt to ornate dresses and jacquard jackets gilded with gold, you only need to wear one item in your look to represent the trend. This can be a pair of shoes, Jacquard trousers, fancy earrings or a stunning embroidered jacket. Keep the rest of your look neutral.
The components of Baroque are all very formal in nature, so keep in mind that there are appropriate and inappropriate times to flaunt this look. Evening is obviously the right time and even an office where suits are the norm could still handle this look, but never outshine your female boss.
Be subtle but confident because Baroque items are created to be attention-grabbing. Even the smallest nod to the trend will stand out.
If you remember the version of Baroque from the 1980s and cannot face another experience, don’t worry. Trends come and go and there will be another one right around the corner that suits where you are now.
So the current fashion rule is not too much or you may look like you’re an extra in Blackadder or a Shakespeare play.
For me the gods of contemporary Baroque are Dolce & Gabbana and Versace, but don’t let their price tags worry you as Top Shop and New Look have now joined the party.
To find out more about Louise, log on to khrysalis.co.uk
Comments