FALL 2011 | Trends

This Fall, just about anything goes. Pants are skinny, wide, high-waisted, trouser cut, you name it. Skirts are short, long, knee length and midi. So all body types can find the perfect shape. The one thing to remember, though is what goes on top - of skinny, wide, short and long. If you've got a skinny pant, an over-sized shirt or sweater is best. If you've got a long, flowing wide-leg pant, pair it with a form fitting top. You just need to remember proportions.

SPRING 2011 | Looking Fashion Forward for Spring

Ever wonder how the hot new looks you see in stores become trends?

Designers (like Chanel) work well over a year in advance coming up with new collections to launch on the runway. From there, fashion forecasters and stylists review the collections and look for commonalities across lines and then identify trends. Working at about six to eight months out, the ready-to-wear manufacturers look at the fashion forecast and determine how to interpret the looks in the lines they produce. Finally, retailers work one to two seasons ahead, and evaluate the new pieces from various manufacturers and purchase items that they think will appeal to their particular customers.

So, while you may read about the new Bohemian trend for Spring 2011, you’re bound to see it adapted several different ways. Pick a trend or two, and you’re ready to shop.

The 70s returns. This time around it has a sleek, glamorous style and a modern eye. The Halter neckline resurfaces and is a major silhouette for Spring 2011. Look for halter necklines in tops, dresses and jumpsuits. That’s right --the jumpsuit. Femininity and sensuality are keys to this updated silhouette in wovens, silks, satin and chiffon.

Wide leg pants. Think palazzo pants, in soft fabrics that drape. It can be a very feminine look, but, it’s not for everyone. If you’re tall and long-legged, go for it. Pair the pants with halter tops, t-shirts, anything that is body-hugging. Throw on a pair of platforms and you’re right in step with the other fashionistas.

Bohemian chic. This look is easy and effortless and encompasses lace and femininity in sheer fabrics that flatter any body type. Colors are soft organics – whites, pale greens, blues, pinks and warm earth tones. Look for accents of embroidery and layers of lace. Wide brimmed hats and leather sandals accessorize the look.

Retro prints and patterns abound! Not only has color made a huge comeback, but so have wacky and colorful prints. And, it’s not just the prints, it’s the mixing & matching of prints that takes the stage this Spring. Don’t be afraid to mix! Adding some bold stripes will really liven up your wardrobe. Choose rich shades of yellows, reds and blues.

Bold color. Orange is the ‘it’ color of the season. Look for bright bold shades of orange and citrus hues in clothing and accessories. These hot new colors make updating last summer’s cobalt and aquamarine clothes a cinch. The trick with color is that you want the right bold color near your face.

Minimal white. It appears that designers all have their own shade of white. And every woman should be able to find the right shade to complement her skin tone. Use white to balance out some of this year’s bolder prints and colors.

Well, there you have it! Now that you’ve read about some of the season’s hottest new trends, you’re bound to start noticing them everywhere. But remember, not all trends are for everyone. Find the ones that best fit your individual style and body shape and you’ll be stepping out in style this Spring.

By Lesley Jane Hunt