As we enter 2011, the start of a WHOLE NEW decade, many of us fashionistas are ready to throw off some of the angst of 2010.  (The economy? Snowpocalypse? Jeggings??)

 No. Just....No.

Though some designers are choosing to take an understated route for their 2011 collections, dripping their collections with pieces reflecting subtle consumption mixed with obvious quality, fashion-savvy folk and some more daring designers are playfully pulling from less economically stressed decades.  Delicate and intricate lace, harking back to a more playful, carefree era, made an appearance at the Oscar de la Renta and Zac Posen Spring 2011 shows; 80s punk and leather featured heavy in the Balenciaga collection.

But what about those who even go a step further - pulling from an era in history that only exists in the art, writings, plays, and popular conscience of the people who fondly reflect on its importance?

Futuristic Punk - 80s style dystopian chic.

And, for our NYC residents especially, the Steampunk trend has most certainly gained "steam" over the past year, and seems to be a strong force in the indie fashion scene...

Steampunk - think of a bespoke risk taker in an H.G. Wells universe. Taken at an event in Dumbo, Brooklyn.

One huge aspect of "statement" trends such as these - which draw heavily from current trends but still exist outside the mainstream realm of fashion - are accessories, such as lavish costume earrings or sparkly, stately collars.  We'll keep our eyes peeled for more exciting, future-forward (or nostalgia-heavy!) style on the fashionable streets of the world!