TROUSERS. DRESSES. WHICH?
In the latest issue of US Vogue magazine, Miuccia Prada declares, “Dresses have become too trendy… I’m convinced by trousers.”
Prada’s 2012 Fall collection… trousers are it.
Convinced!
For the magazine, this wearing-of-the-trousers moment amounts to a seismic shift in fashion but some of us have never really stopped wearing them. Sure, the dress has dominated the fashion scene for the past few years, what with its easy promise of one step and you’re out the door, but nothing really makes you feel pulled together like a well-cut pair of pants and some great heels.
Of course, I’m not immune to seemingly inexplicable fashion thoughts of my own.
As soon as I heard that yesterday was forecast to be sunny and mild – after two days of gloomy, rainy weather – I immediately thought, “Oh, good, I can wear spring’s pastels.” Um, spring? Maybe in three months. But pastels it was. And as it happens, it was trousers, too.
Do you have any fashion rules or mantras? And are you convinced by trousers?

Doing: hearing about some exciting new launches for Dermalogica, expected on counters later this year; getting a personal introduction to the luxe world of Sisley skincare from the company’s Australian general manager, Irene Robinson (her own flawless skin is the best testimonial!).
Wearing: Szen cardigan; Nathan Smith T-shirt; Zara trousers; Belle by Sigerson Morrison ankle boots; Givenchy handbag.
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*Michelle Bateman is a freelance writer and editor who blogs about fashion, beauty and the arts on The Modernity Project, as well as contributing to Australian Vogue, Women’s Health, Harper’s Bazaar and Emporium, among other titles. When not testing new lipsticks (and the occasional gloss), she can be found rearranging her wardrobe in a perpetual quest for more space. This season, she is enjoying mixing patterns and clashing colours; she has always been a sucker for a good leopard print.
9 Responses to this article
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The Huntress June 13, 2012
Nope, not convinced by trousers. I am a dress lady, through and through and have been since my teen years. I love a beautiful dress, I love how I can change my look with the addition of belts, tights and a coat. I was thrilled when dresses became fashionable again a few years back and I will be sad if designers start to embrace trousers again. Nothing can make you feel more like a lady than a gorgeous dress. I particularly loved D&G’s mad, crazy, tired halter dresses they sent down the catwalk this European S/S. I still sit on my hands every time I look at it on Net-a-Porter for fear of buying one – which I honestly can’t afford at the moment. Nevermind.
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kelli June 13, 2012
is this serious? really?
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Katerina June 13, 2012
I have been a dress girl for a long time, instant outfits, but have found myself looking at pants more and more the last few months – loving the relaxed look, pair them with an amazing blazer, t-shirt, statement necklace and killer shoes, awesome.
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Nelle June 13, 2012
Going out in spring or summer? A frock is nice but for everyday comfort and practicality, it’s pants!
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Michelle @ The Modernity Project June 13, 2012
Some great arguments here from both sides of the dress/trousers divide. The good news is the old days of a singular fashion “trend” are long gone (sorry Mrs Prada!) – we can now wear whatever makes us look and feel our best.
PS @The Huntress: I hear Net-A-Porter will be starting their international sale soon!-
The Huntress June 15, 2012
Oooh, thanks for the tip! Maybe I can still have that frock yet
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anna June 14, 2012
I am convince..yes pants














