Trend of the week: Utility looks

The message this season is plain and simple, says Annmarie O'Connor.

INSPIRATION

Fashion and function find parity this season as utility looks command attention. Clean cuts and fluid lines allow for ease of movement while accents like paper-bag waists, patch pockets and statement sleeves add visual interest.

Rendered in subtle shades of khaki, iced coffee, hazelnut, sand and pale dogwood, the result is one of unstudied elegance.

STYLE NOTES

VOLUME CONTROL

Pair khaki trousers with killer heels and augmented sleeves for a new spin on the wardrobe basics.

EASTERN PROMISE

Kimono-style jackets and wide-legged trousers give fuss-free dressing an exotic edge.

EASY SLIDERS

Obey this season’s flat footwear edict with mules, sliders and ballet pumps in earthy tones.

THROWBACK

Large patch pockets on women’s skirts rose to popularity in the 1940s as a means of carrying air raid masks and ration cards.