DRESSING LIKE DOWNTON...

Amid budding romances, widespread social changes and unforeseen betrayals of PBS's popular drama Downton Abbey, one thing is certain - the clothes are always marvelous! Beginning in the post-Edwardian era, the show has progressed with acute historic accuracy into the 1920's thanks to costume designer, Susannah Buxton. “They don't look like actors in costumes. They look like real people," she states. With such popularity, it isn't surprising that many of the wardrobe elements continue to flow concurrent with the fashion on the runway and in stores this year. Who wouldn't like to master the looks of the ladies and gents of the Abbey? I took a closer look at some of the influences and follow them to current venues, including the yet-to-ship Fall 2013 collections...

With a focus on frontal embellishment and "table-top dressing", bibs and decollete novelty is front and center. Clockwise from top left: Spring 2013 - Chloe, Fall 2013 - Free People, Ralph Lauren, Gwendolynne and Kirrily Johnston.

On a backdrop of black, pretty floral blooms in print, embroidery and beading. Clockwise from top left: Fall 2013 - Ralph Lauren detail, Dior, Ralph Lauren, Dolce and Gabbana at Neiman Marcus and Etro at Neiman Marcus.

Branson, the chauffeur has a style all his own, easily adapted to the Fall 2013 collection jackets and accessories. Clockwise from top left: Fall 2013 - Jill Stuart, Chanel, Ralph Lauren detail and Chloe. 

The ladies of the house are ultra feminine and always elegantly enrobed, here in light colors and delicate fabrics. Clockwise from the left: Autumn 2013 - Miltos Undefined, Paradise Lost by Luca Meneghel, Free People, Luis Vuitton, bDba.

Bordeaux, Merlot and Chardonnay flow in yards of draped sheers and satins. From the left: Fall 2013 - Escada, St. John Collection at Neiman Marcus, J. Mendel at Neiman Marcus and Givenchy.

Menswear checks are a great mate for modern cuts and layering. Clockwise from top left: Fall 2013 - Sacai, Chanel, Billy Reid, Lanvin and Rag & Bone.

Dressing like Downton has obviously settled in the house of fashion for awhile... Following upstairs and down and back up again. xoxo-Sonya