Fringe Benefits?

After watching more hours of RTW Spring 2009 runway shows than is clinically recommended, I think it's time for a second opinion diagnosis of one of the big Spring runway trends: the return of fringe.

It seemed to be everywhere--from the more rugged-looking fringe of William Rast and Hermés to the silky strands of Jil Sander and Alexander McQueen. Many of the looks were dramatic...others were fairly tragic, but their popularity among designers this season brings up a very important debate that divides humanity right down the middle. Because no matter how you try to find a gray area, there are two types of people in the world: people who love fringe, and people who don't.

Yours truly is a proud member of "Team Hem" on this one; because when you get right down to it, fringe always looks sort of costume-y. And whether you're a die-hard fan of the wild, wild west or perhaps just preparing your wardrobe to reflect the fashion era of the first great depression as we enter into the second one, there is no excuse for you to look like a cowboy or a flapper gal almost a decade into the 21st century.

No Excuse.

If you must wear fringe, you're less likely to become a cautionary tale if you stick to fringed accessories. A nice scarf, a fringed handbag, and a necklace or belt with a tassel are a few simple ways to capitalize on the hypnotically feminine movement and texture that fringe provides. But beware. it's easy to go overboard. I wouldn't was this to happen to any of you...