Fall 2009 is all about edge. One of the biggest trends we saw on the runways was metal studs. They graced denim jeans and jackets, leather jackets and dresses, boots, belts, bracelets, stilettos, and handbags. The shapes range from flat metal circles to spiky triangles and everything in between. Celebrities spotted wearing this trend include Ashley Olsen, Wyclef Jean, and Thandie Newton. It seems like almost every designer was caught rocking out this trend; Burberry, Balmain, Christian Louboutin, Rock & Republic, Prada, Roberto Cavalli, Donna Karan, William Rast, Tory Burch, Miss Sixty…and the list goes on! There is no escaping this trend.
My favorite look is silver metal studs on black leather. If you’re not one to throw on a leather mini on Saturday night, then pick up a pair of heels or a leather clutch or bag. When it comes to shoes, studs are showing up on the heels of close toed pumps and around the front of booties. They are all over strappy leather platform sandals and Christian Louboutin even has a pair of men’s slip on shoes absolutely covered in pointy circle studs. On purses, the trend is showing up in large squares and small circles. If you are concerned about pulling off this look, but still want to try it, I would suggest a belt or a small clutch. Many belts and clutches just have a single small row of studs.
I would avoid doing head to toe in metal studs. You will end up looking a little too dominatrix or punk. But if that’s the look you’re going for, by all means, go on girl! I also like it on denim, but be careful. Don’t go too overboard. Make sure it is just a pocket or only tracing the side seams down about ¼ of the way. Anything more than that and you can look a little too bedazzled and that’s just simply a no no!
Because many high end designers are selling this trend, you will have a ton of cheaper options to fit your budget. They might not be out in stores yet – but I promise you, after seeing the Fall runways, those budget friendly stores are in the factory right now adding studs to everything so make sure to be on the lookout for these items at Zara, Topshop, H&M and Forever 21.
Forever 21 has a myriad of studded belts and bags starting at just $7. Urban Outfitters has a black leather clutch and a black leather skirt for $88 each. Topshop and Jessica Simpson both have studded booties and platforms between $120 and $180. You’ll find Rock & Republic items starting around $300 and those men’s Christian Louboutins? $995. Have money to spare? Then you will have no problem finding these pieces from most high end designers!
Written By Heather Kilpatrick
