It seems like it’s been forever since Alber Elbaz sent exposed zippers, applied unexpectedly on pretty chiffon dresses, down the Lanvin runway and started a craze. Infact, it was the Fall 2003 collection, which in fashion trend years, might as well have been forever ago. Yet, exposed zippers and zipper trim keep appearing on clothes and accessories season after season. I suppose it almost isn’t even fair to consider this a trend anymore, perhaps Elbaz changed the face of fashion for good. My favorite recent zipper looks from Versace, Narcisco Rodriguez, Yves Saint Laurent and Proenza Schouler:

The best part is, that the trend has been around long enough for brands that I an actually afford to adopt it, and even get it right (unlike some trends that don’t translate well from designer to discount duds).

L.A.M.B. makes quite a few zipper trim shoes, but I love these because they incorporate the entire zipper tape, not just the teeth.

Not only does this Charlotte Ronson dress zip-up the front but also has cute exposed zipper detailing on the front pockets.

The zipper detailing on this Anne Klein skirt adds a fun touch to a conservative and office friendly skirt.

Image Source: Style.com, ELLE.com