Sixties Vibe

While the 60's fashion took root in fall 2011, don't think they will be gone by spring.  The trend was filtered onto the spring/summer 2012 runways as we saw bright block colors, graphic and geometric prints, and penny loafers.  The trend was seen with a very mod look, but we also saw a more softer sexier 60's look; Heavy lace pieces, peter-pan collars, monochrome white, cream, and black.  This trend brings back memories of an era of stunning screen stars like Sophia Loren and Elizabeth Taylor.  Its all about the curves, and cuts that draw in the waist and accentuate the bust and hips.

Color Blocking

The spring runways was more colorful than a rainbow this season.  Bold, solid color pieces - like wrap dresses or one-piece suits made simple dressing look glam.  The color that ruled the runway was orange!!  So if you are in need of a new dress, be daring and buy it in orange.  The forecast of colors promises for a beautiful season to come.  Warm brights of poppy, and geranium to canary yellow, tiffany blue and hyacinth.  Honey and sandstone offered a neutral break from all the color seen strewn accross the runways. Our style tip: Stick to three colors max in one outfit.

 Super Bold Prints

Birds? It was the season of the bird and models were seen all over the runways flocking bold prints of hummingbirds, swans and parrots.  Whimsical prints from deers to fruit to feathers were seen on everything from blouses to dresses.  All caps are necessary to describe the vibrant head-to-toe prints that were seen coming down the runways.  Hyperbright florals in all the seasons bold colors were seen everywhere, even on pants.  Digital photographic images were printed on garments to give the illusion of a 3D effect - tropical landscapes on blouses and flower fields on dresses.  Stripes have seemed to hold their place in fashion year after year, and were seen on everything from nautical tops, dresses, handbags, and even shoes. Out style tip: To keep things in this day and age, pair and print piece with something simple that will not go out of style.

 Peplum Accents

A short flared ruffle that sits at the natural waist, was seen on tops, skirts, dresses, and even jackets.  Whether you prefer chic and retro or something edgier, a peplum ensemble will be the go-to trend for spring/summer 2012.  First popular in the 1940's, it made its way back in the 80's, but the peplum for 2012 is taking a whole new modern approach.  The vintage silhouette has never looked so versatile, from a starchy little overskirt that flares from the waist, to feminine frills that accent the hemline on blouses.

 Doily Lace

Lace has been a huge trend on the runways since spring 2011.  Lace embellishments, overlays, and edgings are being seen on apparel, shoes, handbags and even jewelry.  In the past, lace dresses and blouses were the norm, but this season more originality is being used with lace.  Lace pencil skirts and jackets, short and long gypsy skirts, and even lace shoes.  Avoid all stereotypes about lace dresses being to feminine or dressy for day-to-day wear, and don't be weary about trying bold colored lace, its no longer just for the bedroom.

Denim

Denim is so integral in today's fashion industry that it is difficult to imagine it getting any bigger.  But it is.  Denim is set to become an increasingly significant aspect over the next couple years.  Many of the designer brand jeans will continue to be defined by rips and tears, bleach and colored embroidery.  However, with the economy still in recovery, style and cleanliness is replacing these designer weathered jeans.  The worn and weathered look is being put on the back burner for now and there are fewer rips and tears, and fading is subtler.  Clean denim, in bold colors is very strong for spring/summer 2012, and jeans are becoming more classic in cut and turning into more formal styles to look like pants rather than being associated with denim.

 Accessories

From tribal to floral, whites to sorbets, and oversized to chunky, accessories were seen all over the runways for spring/summer 2012.  Accessories ranged from simple, minimal choices to pure opulence.  Belts have become popular again, the corset belt made a big comeback as the fitted hourglass silhouettes return.  Bracelets and rings are still stacked in multiples, but are toned down to two or three key pieces.  The "arm cuff" worn from wrist to upper arm is seen in thin, chunky or knotted styles in metal and smooth wood finishes.  Chunky bangles in unconventional shapes, and varying widths and colors are styled together for contrast.  Tubular chokers, are the season's biggest must-have accessory.  Seen in silver, gold, or leather, these can be styled with simple tops or a structured blazer for a stunning look.  The modern Gladstone Bag, aka the Doctor's Bag, was once a workingman's asset but has now become a women's luxury.  Gladstones are to be treated like a classic vintage piece, they have the capability to overshadow all other accessories of an outfit.