Style Round Up: The Biggest Fashion Moments of 2011

Take a look back at some of 2011's biggest style moments.

As the sun sets on what has been an incredible year for fashion, we take a look back at some of 2011’s biggest style moments. From the wedding of the century to the death of an icon, these moments have defined a year in fashion and shaped our perception of style over the past twelve months.

The Death of Elizabeth Taylor

At the age of 79, Elizabeth Taylor, one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, passed away following a long history of ill health. She left behind a legacy of style that defined a generation, epitomised by ultra glamorous designer clothing and a lick of thick black eyeliner. Taylor’s iconic looks would be typically adorned with extravagant jewellery from the many men in her life; a collection which would later be valued at $30 million.

Gaga’s Grammy Arrival

On the 13th February the celebrity world was abuzz with talk of Lady Gaga’s flamboyant entrance to this year’s Grammy Awards ceremony. Held aloft by four bronzed attendants, Gaga was encased in a futuristic egg (or ‘vessel’ as the lady herself called it) and carried into the building, with nothing but a regal wave to her eager audience. Gaga later emerged from her ‘embryonic state’ in a sheer gold top and cropped skirt to perform her hit single ‘Born This Way.’

The Royal Wedding

On a brisk April morning, the world watched with baited breath as Kate Middleton stepped out of her royal carriage in one of the fashion world’s most closely guarded secrets. Designed by Sarah Burton, Kate’s ivory lace and silk dress and long, sheer veil was simple and elegant, effortlessly combining both ‘tradition and modernity.’ The big day also spawned another style star: Kate’s younger sister Pippa, who still remains one of the world’s favourite ‘It’ girls.

The return of Azzedine Alaia

When July came around, the Autumn/Winter 2011/12 haute couture shows got under way with the world’s leading designers taking to the catwalk to showcase trends for the upcoming season. The most hotly anticipated show of the week belonged to Azzedine Alaia, the lauded Tunisian-born couturier, who returned to the catwalk following an eight year absence. At the end of his exclusive show, resplendent with his signature style of sculpted silhouettes, an audience of superstars rose to their feet for a ten minute standing ovation.

Colour Blocking

Spring 2011 was awash with bold hues and bright shades as colour blocking told a hold of the high street. The big hitters for this kaleidoscopic trend were orange and purple, as seen on Cheryl Cole and later Nicole Scherzinger, in what appeared to be a colour block battle between the ousted X-Factor USA judge and her replacement. As we moved into autumn the trend followed suit, shifting gear from lurid tones to the burnt shades of fallen leaves.