How Is Fashion Shaping Up?

With inspiration from the Renaissance and rock 'n' roll, fall fashion runs the gamut, including high-neck taffeta dresses like the one opposite by Chanel (Bergdorf Goodman, 888-774-2424). Chanel brooch (Neiman Marcus, 888-888-4757) and Wolford Velvet de Luxe tights (Wolford, 800-965-3673). This page: Louis Vuitton Shetland-wool pocket top, fox-fur skirt, wool hat and Babouche pump louisvuitton.com) Model: Doutzen Kroes for L'Oréal Paris

Living in a Bubble

Volume explodes in the most unexpected places. This page: Balenciaga by Nicolas Ghesquière silk and velvet embroidered bodice, hand-painted jacquard skirt and leather harness boot (Balenciaga, 212-206-0872); felt hat (Lissilaa, 858-454-0874). Opposite: Lanvin silk organza dress and Swarovski crystal necklace (Barneys New York, 212-826-8900)

A Short Story

Designers are betting on miniskirts this season. Opposite: Miu Miu silk jacquard dress (Miu Miu, 888-977-1900); Wolford Velvet de Luxe tights (Wolford, 800-965-3673). This page: Alexander McQueen silk dress with tulle collar (Alexander McQueen, 212-645-1797); Marc Jacobs patent-leather shoes marcjacobs.com

Going with The Flow

Amid the stiff, constructed shapes of the season, some designers are loosening up the silhouette with softer fabrics and a more romantic feel. Opposite: Dolce & Gabbana Empire-waist chiffon dress and knee-high boots (dolcegabbana.it). This page: Ralph Lauren Collection cashmere cape, cashmere turtleneck and cashmere leggings runway.polo.com) In this story: hair by Kevin Ryan for Aveda; makeup by Frank B. for the Wall Group; manicure by Roseann Singleton for Art Department