The fashions of the past year exuded chic, refinery, and power, with color-blocked shifts and sleek trousers abound. To accompany the streamlined silhouettes were textiles with a strength of their own. Seriously heavy-duty fabrics like denim, leather, and brocade were re-worked into feminine pieces and formed essential basics for every season.

Denim

Source: denimjeansobserver.com

Denim became the new black, as multiple layers of the material –collard chambray shirts paired with skinny jeans and topped with denim jackets or vests – dominated in the fall.

Leather

Source: shoppingthetrend.com

Black stayed on the scene in the form of leather garments ranging from leggings to jackets that shifted to must-haves rather than statement pieces. We saw leather in skirts and pocket detail as the tough material was integrated into everyday style.

Brocade

Source: fashionising.com

Brocade was a major runway trend of 2012. Notably rich and thick, the fabric transitioned from old-time dresses to upholstery, but this year found it mixed with sheer materials and modern silhouettes.

So what’s to come in 2013? We predict a lighter touch. Fashion’s sleek lines aren’t going anywhere, but they’ll be done in brighter, softer fabrics for the coming spring.