CONTEMPORARY KEY ITEMS

 New ways of layering is a key theme this season. Long-over-long styling continues with tunics over pants or longer skirts, but fresh takes on the look combine clingy, ribbed or nearly-sheer knits, or pattern-on-pattern. All kinds of dresses are worn atop sweaters or shirts, while bodysuits serve as a base layer for everything. Softened A-line shapes and slouchy silhouettes contrast with second skin effects, and asymmetry goes nonchalant in the form of draped skirts or uneven hemlines. Victorian fashion is still a driving inspiration for demure blouses and dresses. Texture plays an important role — lacy crochets, lustrous satins and wet-look synthetics call out to be touched.