Futurism and sci-fi: futuristic fashion trend
Written by Tania Braukamper
Futurism. It's something of a paradox. The future cannot be predicted; but in envisioning it, we can create self-fulfilling prophecies. You could go crazy just thinking about it - so instead let's just say that the dawn of a new decade has sent 2010's fashion trends into sci-fi and futurism overdrive.
So how do we define futuristic fashion? As a Spring 2010 fashion trend it seems to be less about gadgetry and more about future environments. We're faced with collections that contemplate dystopia or evolutionary change. Topics of science fiction are woven into the threads of some designers' clothing, while others base their designs on more traditional views of futurism.
Futuristic fashion at Alexander McQueen Spring 2010
Futuristic fashion in 2010
The futuristic influences upon fashion in 2010 are far and wide. We've seen everything from the re-interpretation of 1960s views of space age fashion (like the raised collars and metallic fabrics at Louise Goldin), through to reptilian eco-evolutionary creatures at Alexander McQueen and Julien MacDonald; while the likes of Karl Lagerfeld had metallic foil detailing which more called to mind the abstract art of the original early 20th century futurists, who revered technology and speed.
If anything the continual thread through it all is a deep contemplation about what the future might hold. There's wonder more so than excitement; and, for some, trepidation. Science, technology, and the environment - and humankind's effect on the world - are playing upon many minds. But it's not all doom and gloom. Futuristic themes can be fun and playful, as well as stark and fierce.
Future warrior
A subset of the futurism trend is the future warrior; a fierce and forwards-looking collision of the military and tribal trends. Ancient civilisations come to life with a futuristic twist, in leather tunics, metal plating, and war paint. Unequivocally fearless and with room for endless creativity, the main criteria for the modern warrior is confidence. Click to read more about the future warrior trend.
2010's futurism: the elements
Again this trend spans multiple styles and influences, but here are some of the significant common elements we've seen appearing:
- Fish scales or reptile scales making up futuristic forms
- Metallic fabrics, plating, or detailing
- Circuitry inspired patterns
- Robotic looking elements
- Unusual, exaggerated silhouettes like pointed shoulders, cocoon shapes
Louise Goldin Spring 2010
How to wear it
This is one trend for which the runway interpretations were spectacular - especially the likes of Alexander McQueen, who put together an entire evolved look. But if you don't want to look like an Avatar creature from the world of Pandora, or a twisted faun that belongs in Pan's Labrynth, maybe the whole horn-hair and prosthetic gills things isn't for you. We're not surprised.
McQueen's dresses translate well to the street, however, once you leave all that stuff behind; as do many others of the sci-fi inspired looks. The key is to be bold and embrace things a little strange and, well, alien. But you can also play them down by pairing futuristic pieces with more classic ones. Just remember that when it comes to the future, we're dealing with something that doesn't exist yet... and so, the possibilities are endless.
Trend updates
Daily discovery: space-age shoe heaven
Versace fit for a femme fatale
Vintage Inspiration: intergalactic goddess
Dion Lee melds the past and the future: Spring 2010
Reimagining head-to-toe black: Raquel Zimmermann
Gucci's future-sporty 'Sigrid' heels
Beautiful movement: sunray pleats & McQueen shoes
Gabriella Marina Gonzalez Victorian Sci-Fi Surgery
Alla Kostromicheva is the girl from Atlantis
Abbey Lee Kershaw, space cadet
Dion Lee futuristic at LMFF 2010
Karl Lagerfeld not so classic for Fall 2010
Louise Goldin's space army: Autumn / Fall 2010
The future according to Threeasfour: Fall 2010
Crash landings in 160g Magazine
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Written: 2nd February 2010 at 05.50
Written by Tania Braukämper.
There aren't too many alpha-females out there and, though she might deny it, Tania Braukamper certainly exudes their qualities. A keen eye, a focused approach, and a wardrobe spanning three rooms have made her one of the savviest of dressers. But it's not all couture for Tania, earning her fashionista credentials she'll frequently be seen on the town in a one-off, vintage dress and a pair of Gucci heels.
She says: Vintage will never go out of style
We say: Does that include vintage 80s?
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