Asian Fusion

While there are loads of spring trends we cannot wait to explore (extreme wedges, digital prints, and khaki craze, oh my!) we couldn't help but notice that some of our most-watched dressers have been venturing off into exotic territory and wearing a trend that we have affectionately termed Asian Fusion fashion. Though some of these pieces seem like they could be souvenirs from a trip to the Far East, the current iteration of this look is actually anchored in the American and European fashion communities. Specifically, the style sprung from talents like Marc Jacobs and the inimitable Vivienne Westwood, both of whom sent brilliant brocades, deft draped garments, and gloriously printed pieces down their S/S 10 runways. Clearly, these designers and darling dressers are onto something, so we thought we would chart how four sartorial stars are incorporating this interesting influence into their regular rotation in today's Trend Report feature!


Before we delve into our subjects' outfit details, we first wanted to dole out a few pointers on how to wear these eclectic and decorative styles. While Marc Jacobs and Vivienne Westwood's runway shows offered extreme head-to-toe looks (the Kabuki makeup on the models certainly adds to the theatrical aura), we particularly like the fresh way these four fashion-philes are wearing these Asian-influenced pieces. By mixing a cheongsam-style top or a kimono-sleeve jacket with closet staples like silk harem pants, jeans, or chic winter shorts, these pieces are getting decidedly modern fashion cred.

Now that we've given you the broad brushstrokes on how to wear these Asian-fusion items, let's tackle the specificsstarting with Rachel Zoe! Seen here at the Rodarte S/S 10 show, the star stylist opted for a Marc Jacobs V-Neck Embroidered Top with Waist Tie ($895, 212.343.1490). The piece is a bit boxy, but the belt nips in the waist and creates a strong silhouette that compliments its lovely violet hue. Meanwhile, at the Elle-hosted Ports 1961 cocktail party at New York's flagship Bloomingdales store, Olivia Palermo added a little flare to her outfit via a vintage brocade blouse. This print offers another prime example of how the combination of a pop of color plus a nature-inspired print feels perfect for spring. To recreate Palermo's stylish ensemble, try Guess' Daylily Kimono Top ($138), Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent's Silk Flutter Caftan ($295), or an authentic Brocade Mandarin Top ($40) from Pearl River Mart with a great pair of silk harem pants (like Zoe's Pajama Pant ($845) also from Marc Jacobs' collection) or chic winter shorts (Palermo's are from Topshop) and your favorite heels!

Of course, you can also try the trend via a chic coat, as Ashley Olsen did while attending the amfAR New York Gala. The petite powerhouse, who received rave reviews for The Row's first runway show, added an exotic touch to her Pre Fall Silk Suit from The Row by topping it with a divine Dries Van Noten coat from the S/S 10 collection. The contrast of the nude and noir looked lovely, and the textured pattern on the coat really elevates an already standout ensemble! We think this is a brilliant way to add a touch of far-off flare without going overboard, so make sure to try Dries Van Noten's Rowlin Coat ($1611), Marc Jacob's Brocade Jacket ($1931), or P.A.R.O.S.H Silk Wrap Top ($312) for similar results.

Though our three previous examples dressed this look up, we wanted to include Nicole Richie because she can teach us a thing or two about how to incorporate this style in a more casual way. Spotted exiting LA eatery Madeo last month, the mother-of-two opted for an unstructured plume-printed Jasmine Cardy ($215) from her debut clothing collection, Winter Kate. The lux peacock feather print feels exquisitely exotic, while the loose fit of the bed jacket is as effortless as it is chic!We also quite like Joie's Bora Ruffle Top with Dropped Sleeves ($208) or Tibi's Silk Print Wrap Top ($265), which are similarly shaped and features a flirty floral print.