Style Guide: Shirts vs. Skins

Slithering through the tents of fashion week, we are seeing a trend that is sure to leave you feeling a little cold blooded. Skins of all types, and snake in particular, will be a major trend for Spring 2013.

Printed on shirts and dresses, like J. Crew’s chiffon print snakeskin ensembles or Vince Camuto’s snake print button down shirt, a reptile theme is going full force for spring fashion.

Shoes and bags, too, have adopted this trend, inspired by one of nature’s most fascinating creatures, and couture designers are showing off their skins too, like the leather, python and lizard sandals from Reed Krakoff. Lanvin’s snake skin tote, Mulbberry’s snake embossed metallic leather chain purse, Brian Atwood’s leather fringe quilted snake bag, or even Salvatore Ferragamo’s snake skin whip stitch collar are other perfect examples of the legitimacy of this trend.

Leather also adds to the skin trend, and a leather mini, like M. Patmo’s or BCBG MaxAzria’s faux leather shift dress tone down reptile-inspired accessories.

To accessorize this trend without looking like Medusa, pair jewelry that has a naturalist edge to it. Kimberly Mcdonald’s Zebra opal and diamond earrings are dramatic yet have an organic feel, or Alexis Bittar’s resin and rhinestone pieces are fabulous additions to this sssssssimply sensational trend.