Writing this article in early January on Spring Summer 2011’s key looks and trends is not an easy task. The shops are still full of sale stock and there are just dribs and drabs of new season stock arriving onto the high street each week.
So instead of predicting the future I shall just cast my mind back to a cold and rather blustery September, wrapped up in many layers observing the delights of this year’s Spring Summer collections at London Fashion Week.
From this magnificent display on the catwalks the High Street will take key elements and filter them down into a showcase of wearable looks and pieces for us normal (body and bank balance) everyday people, hooray!
This is the time to lift your spirits with the new clothes you buy. They should bring you happiness, confidence and above all, make you look and feel fabulous.
There are many trends, cuts, colours and fabrics this new season. I have picked out just a few, so all you have to do is stamp your personal style all over them.
The catwalks back in September were a rebellion of what was going on outside with a riot of dazzling brights. Sumptuous Jewell tones and glowing fluro’s exploded across so many of the collections. Worn in one head-to-toe look or by layering up bold, clashing blocks of colour combinations. Colour is Spring Summer 2011 biggest style story.
The most featured colours on the catwalk were electric royal blue and bright tangerineorange. However, literally all the colours under the rainbow exploded in a brilliant burst featured by so many of the designers. Go with what you like and what suits your skin tone.
If you’re slightly scared of colour then make it easy and pair brights with black or white.The most flattering look is to pick one vibrant shade and wear it top to bottom. If the head-to-toe look is too bold for you then introduce colour as an accent. Opt for eye-catching accessories such as bags, belts, shoes and sunglasses, to add a dazzling electric hit of pure colour to your outfit.
For those of you on a budget you will be pleased to know that the Maxi is back! Spring Summer sees the fall of the hemline. Designers have gone to great lengths (excuse the pun) and have focused on below the knee and floor skimming skirts, dresses and trousers.
Trousers are bringing back the 70’s with super wide, palazzo pant style high-waisted, sweeping to the floor. You don’t have to be tall to wear long, it is a beautiful and classic style that elongates and flatters any figure. If you are on the small side just keep it sleek and avoid anything too full and wide.
As for an easy to wear style, team a ground skimming summer maxi skirt or dress with a pair of flat sandals, comfy yet chic.
If you have a lovely décolleté then bring attention to the top half of your body by opting for a decorative Jewell laden neckline. Great to disguise a pear shape and perfect for those of you with a small bust as it will add the detail you need.
If you’ve got fantastic legs then show them off with a billowing slash-front skirt or dress. This will take any unwanted attention away from your tummy or bust.
Sometimes a little detail is all that it takes to change the feel of a garment. Some of the most popular trimmings for Spring Summer are fringing, tassels and feathers. The catwalks saw them adorning everything from handbags to shoes and dresses.
Although colour made a spectacular return this spring fear not, there is an alternative. With a palette of dusty sand, soft blush, nude and of course pure crisp clean white. Flattering tones for those of us without a permanent sun kissed glow.
The white shirt is, as I have always said, a key piece. It can work so well with many garments already in a wardrobe. If you’re struggling to find one that fits and is flattering, then you need me!
All in all Spring Summer 2011 is sensual and sophisticated. If all this is somewhat scary rather than seductive, and you would like a little help and advice from a professional, either for yourself or a loved one, then please do not hesitate to contact me. I am your Fairy Clothes Mother, and after all looking good doesn’t just happen, so it is my job to show people how!