Vintage tassels

Similar to the fringe trend that hit the streets last season, this season women are elongating the trend with tassels. Tassels are not only a whimsical and cheerful embellishment, but they also give great movement and depth to any piece. It is remarkable how designers can effortlessly take the trend and make it transition from classic to modern to hippie. Italian fashion powerhouse Gucci created a scarlet red bell sleeve dress. Tassels extend from the hem of the bell sleeve, which stops at the elbow. The high neck dress is not form fitting, giving it a more relaxed look. Belgian fashion designer Dries Van Noten created a stunning multi coloured tassel mid-length skirt. The tassels drape from mid-hip to mid calf in an array of hues from fuchsia to mint to sky blue to black. The cheerful skirt would be ideal for an outdoor music festival. American fashion designer Calvin Klein took a more minimalistic approach to the tassel look, and created a solid black and white dress. The unique draping of the tassels, combined with the sharp geometric angles and hems, create a fresh look on a traditional trend. Beloved fashion label Chanel created a Nordic looking tassel skirt. The crème skirt is woven with patterns of red, tan and brown. The tassels extend from the hem of the knee-length skirt. Socialites and Hollywood favourites are brining this characteristically fun style to the streets. Gwen Stefani, and designer herself of line L.A.M.B., wore a full Salvatore Ferragamo halter tassel dress. She paired with black satin shoes, a bun at the top of her head, and her signature red lips. Nicole Richie, daughter to musical genius Lionel Richie, wore a crème mid-thigh length tassel top. She paired with an oversized faux fur jacket and gray leather skinny jeans. On the red carpet, American actress Jena Malone, most recently known for her role in The Hunger Games:Catching Fire, wore a scarlet Monique Lhuillier gown. The tassels begin at the tip of her shoulder and cascade down her arm. She paired with swept up hair and minimal jewelry. Tassels are a great way to add a vintage, feminine and flirty look to your ensemble. For a quieter approach, follow Nicole Richie’s lead and wear a tassel top. Mix the look with capri trousers and ankle strap shoes to be fully on trend. For a more eye-catching look, ensure your entire gown is head to toe tassels. In that case, stick to one colour, and keep accessories to a minimum. That’s the fashion scoop for this week. Got a thought? Trend? Style you hate? Send it my way. Rachel Breaux is an American living in Rwanda.