Halloween is the perfect time to live out our luxury fashion fantasies. We can let go of our chic everyday style for something a little crazier, more exciting, and, dare I say it, fun!
Fashion designers have long been inspired by the wilder side of life. From the scary, spooky gothic aesthetic to the wacky and wonderful world of camp, dressing up lets us break free from our adult responsibilities and run wild, even if it’s just for the day.
There’s no need to run out to the nearest party store; let’s banish the cheap plastic costumes. Not only are they usually an eyesore, they’re terrible for the environment and highly flammable. Instead, look to your own wardrobe for inspiration this year. Are you not going to a party? No problem, you can still have fun with a slight nod and wink to this creepy holiday. What could be more chic than a hauntingly beautiful black lace or tulle ensemble for dinner? Or how about a splash of color at the office with some pumpkin orange. Let’s not leave all the fun to the children! We can take lots of inspiration from the world of luxury fashion. From the runways to editorials, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to dressing up and having fun this Halloween.
The dark designer side
If you’re looking to bring out your darker side, look no further than the avant-garde designers. These creative geniuses love to shock and delight with their art.
Spooky
The extraordinary Alexander McQueen, once known as the enfant terrible of his generation of British designers, often took inspiration from the darker side of life. His true talent lay in creating beauty from pain. He crafted exquisitely tailored clothes that set him apart from his contemporaries. His designs could indeed be shocking but also romantic, beautiful, and poetic. Perfect for a whimsical evening of dark fantasy. His skull prints and knuckle duster clutch bags are the perfect accessories for any spooky evening.
American fashion designer Rick Owens has a unique aesthetic. Think dystopian futuristic clothes mixed with sky-high glam rock boots and experimental silhouettes. Maybe a touch dramatic for the office, but perfect for an evening out for all you daring fashionistas out there!
Fairy tale chic
Simone Rocha is one of my favorite designers. Her bold silhouettes and billowing, soft-flowing tulle are perfect for a romantic gothic moment this Halloween and beyond.
Fashion is art
If you’re looking for something a little more unusual, look to Gareth Pugh for inspiration. His daring designs could be mistaken for art sculptures rather than clothes. These pieces are for the collectors out there. You could keep them in your wardrobe or hang them on your wall; both would give you endless enjoyment. Halloween may be the perfect and only opportunity to wear them!
Comme des Garçons, is another favourite of the bold fashionista. These striking silhouettes designed by Rei Kawakubo are slightly more wearable than Gareth Pugh’s but just as beautifully innovative and interesting. Rei was celebrated in 2017 by the Metropolitan museum with her own show dedicated to her career. The Met Gala red carpet was a feast for the eyes, with many of the celebrities wearing Comme des Garçons’s extreme designs. A perfect choice for any wild party, scary or not.
Deathly glamorous
Not all designers are inspired by the avant-garde; some express their art through the beauty and power of the female form. If you’re attending a gala or ball this season, a spectacular black form-fitting dress or dramatic ball gown will steal the show. Designers such as Dolce & Gabbana, Ellie Saab, and Zuhair Murad know how to harness the power of the femme fatale. From Dolce & Gabanna’s exquisite black lace to Ellie Saab and Zuhair Murad’s knock-out fierce glamour in tulle and beading. Be the queen of the party in a gown fit for royalty. Halloween doesn’t have to be scary, but it can be terrifyingly beautiful!
A subtle nod
Halloween doesn’t have to be just about clothes. Add an interesting accessory to join in the fun without feeling like you’re going to a costume party. Some of my favorite headpieces are by Maison Michel. Who could resist playful bunny ears with a chic black lace veil?
Release your wild side
However you celebrate this holiday, by dressing up or not, it’s a wonderful reminder to have some fun with fashion and let your imagination run wild. Ditch the camel coats and gold Hermès Birkins for the day. Wait a minute… Gwyneth Paltrow’s character Margot, from the Royal Tenenbaums movie, would be a really fabulous fashion costume moment. Ok, now my outfit is sorted. I just have to find a party!
Text by Pamela McKillop
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