Complete Index

Ottoman-inspired styles are popping up on runways in established fashion capitals around the globe. Istanbul has long been a source of textiles for the fashion world, but now the bi-continental city is becoming a hub of culture and design in its own right.

Paris Fall 2009 Fashion Week embraced the current recession by turning it on its head: ostentation, bright colors and pieces verging on the outlandish responded to the economic downturn by insulting it rather than granting it concessions. Other designers incorporated 1980s trends, such as wide shoulders and high-waisted pants, in the latest iteration of fashion’s usual 20-year cycle.

Milan Fashion Week is arguably the most luxurious fashion and accessories showcase of all the fashion weeks. Italian fashion design is known for timeless pieces and the use of rich fabrics and fur. Fall 2009 spoke to these traditions, somewhat more—but not too much more—conservatively than usual.

London Fashion Week turned 25 this year, and flaunted the milestone with Fall 2009 shows that captured the event’s usual blend of youth, adventurousness and edgy sophistication.

Models who pose nude for Paris art schools faced cold temperatures as they appeared outside unclothed to strike for better wages, benefits and respect.