Harvest Hues: Three Colors to Fall for
Between the vibrant brights designers loved this season and the usual moody greys were three traditionally autumnal colors that made a big impact on the fall runways: mustard yellow, rust and emerald green. If these hues feel a bit nostalgic, it's because they have strong roots in the '60s and '70s—eras that also influenced fashion this season.
Marc Jacobs and Gucci embraced the slinky '70s vibe with floaty hemlines, fitted sweaters and retro accessories. Carolina Herrera and Alberta Ferretti referenced the minimal styles of the '60s with little or no embellishments. And Hermes and Diane von Furstenberg referenced no specific time period, but did make a statement by showing different shades of the same color in layered head-to-toe looks.
If you'd like to dip your toe in the trend, experiment with accessories—mustard yellow, rust and emerald green all look rich in wool, suede and leather. But in a season where bright-colored fur and sheer fabrics made everyone’s trend list, why not be fearless and go for an allover look? Try combining feminine silks with heavier knits in different gradations of the same color.
Below, inspirational runway looks and eBay picks to catch the trend.
Mustard Yellow

Fall 2011: Lanvin (photo by Chris Moore/Catwalking/Getty Images), Hermes (photo by Chris Moore/Catwalking/Getty Images), Marc by Marc Jacobs (photo by Karl Prouse/Catwalking/Getty Images)
Rust

Fall 2011: Alberta Ferretti (photo by Karl Prouse/Catwalking/Getty Images), Gucci (photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images), Carolina Herrera (photo by Karl Prouse/Catwalking/Getty Images)
Emerald Green

Fall 2011: Diane von Furstenburg (photo by Chris Moore/Catwalking/Getty Images), Marc by Marc Jacobs (photo by JP Yim/Contributor), Gucci (photo by Karl Prouse/Catwalking/Getty Images)