Every new season finds new ways to play with what’s in your closet, augmented by what’s new on store racks.
Ala Moana Center will be the first of the major malls to showcase the trends of fall 2014 when it stages its Fall Fashion Event Sept. 12 to 14. Festivities will begin at 5 p.m. Sept. 12 with DJ music throughout the center, cupcakes for shoppers to enjoy and a gift of an exclusive clutch by local designer Jana Lam for shoppers who redeem $200 in Ala Moana Center store and restaurant receipts dated Sept. 12 to 14. Receipts can be redeemed at the Customer Service Center, one per person while supplies last.
There will also be fashion shows all weekend long at Center Stage, as follows:
Sept. 12
6 p.m.: Reyn Spooner
7 p.m.: Entertainment by Sunway
Sept. 13
Noon: Ann Taylor
1 p.m.: Banana Republic
2 p.m.: Diane von Furstenberg
3 p.m.: CH Carolina Herrera
4 p.m.: Cache
5 p.m.: Old Navy
Sept. 14
Noon: Spiral Girl
1 p.m.: Macy’s
2 p.m.: bebe
3 p.m.: Valerie Joseph
4 p.m.: Pepsi fashion show featuring designs by Honolulu Community College students
Here are some of the trends you’ll be seeing on the runway, and, soon, the streets:
Knitwear: Knits are always a natural for the chilly season, though for those of us who live in perpetual warm weather, it can be more about texture than weight. And sometimes wrapping yourself in a nubby scarf is enough.
Sixties: Simple shift and trapeze dresses and boxy coats represent a return to classy minimalism at its finest, though often they are delivered with prints inspired by the Pop Art era.
Sheer and shearling: No, you wouldn’t necessarily put these two ideas together, but shearling is popping up in everything from vests and bomber-style jackets to full-length coats. The sheer look is a continuation of summer’s trend, with transparency adding a luxurious feel to what would otherwise be exposed shoulders, arms, midriffs and knees, especially as the glamorous holiday season approaches.
Fur: The presence of fur always rankles a few, but travelers to cold climes swear by the extra layer of warmth.
Emerald: Deep forest and hunter greens bring a touch of gravitas to the fall season, with rich jewel tones emerging for evenings and the sparkling holiday season.
Moto: If you’re shopping for a new jacket, observe the road warrior for inspiration. The look of biker leather, with metal zippers and buckles, reads powerful and edgy, applicable to both men and women this fall.
Other event highlights:
Beijing getaway: Enter for a chance to win a getaway for two to Beijing on Hawaiian Airlines, a four-night stay in the Four Seasons Hotel Beijing’s ambassador suite and a $500 Ala Moana Center gift card. Submit an entry form Saturday through Sept. 14 on Mall Level 2 near Louis Vuitton or by visiting www.facebook.com/ alamoanacenter. Must be at least 18 years old to enter.
Give back: The center will accept donations on behalf of Dress for Success Honolulu, a nonprofit organization that promotes economic independence for disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a support network and career development tools. Shoppers are invited to bring classic suits and separates, dresses, jackets and sweater sets, handbags, accessories and shoes, unused cosmetics, creams and toiletries to participating merchants: Ann Taylor, Dooney & Bourke, Folli Follie, LeSportsac, Maui Divers Jewelry, Tapestries by Hau’oli, Tommy Bahama and Valerie Joseph. Those who donate will have access to discounts and offers at select retailers.
For updates, visit www.alamoanacenter.com and follow @AlaMoanaCenter on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram via the hashtag #TFFE.