Spring 2006 Trend: Hardware Detailing

Hardware at United Bamboo, Marc by Marc Jacobs, and Dolce and Gabbana Menswear.
Photo Credit: NY Metro

Trend Importance Factor: Medium.

Wearability Factor: Medium High.

How to Wear It: Grommets, metal zippers, D rings, snaps, and buckles have found their way to traditional garments ranging from dresses, sweaters, and blouses to pants and skirts. The hardware look gives a bit of an edge to otherwise conservative (read: normal) looks, and really turns up the heat on more risqué garments.

For maximum wearability, keep the metal pieces small and on sections of the body that you want to highlight. If you have a great waistline, for example, wear metal on your belt. And if you love your shoulderline, look for hardware trimmings on or near the shoulder area. For a fresh look, try D rings and buckles in unexpected places.

Where in Trend Lifecycle: This trend has been bubbling up for at least a year. We even made note of hardware detailing at Armani Exchange back in April. And hardware studded bags were a ubiquitous accessory this past season. Look for this trend to continue as a counter to the pretty, overly feminine look dominating the runways.