Trends

The softer side of spring 2012

 in Color Trends / General Fashion / Trends  tagged pastels / runway trends / spring 2012 by

Spring 2012 is all about color. While bright and bold colors are hot, Paris gave the fashion world another color palette to think about; pastels. The Paris pastel trend seemed to be nothing more than a mere introduction when it graced the runways during Paris Fashion Week last fall. Normally when a trend first appears on the runways, store buyers and Fashionistas take notice, but do not go full force into wearing the trend. Not true this spring 2012 season. Pastels are more important than one would think.

When Paris introduced pastels, many forecasters thought it was an introduction and that in 2013 and 2014 pastels would overtake the bright colors we have grown to love during the past year. Although bright colors are highly sought after and important for spring 2012, pastels are taking an equal place in the world of spring fashion.

Pastels shades are being shown in many forms from color blocking to stand-alone hues. Pastels are being shown with whites, creams, pale beige and soft neutrals on feminine silhouettes; playing up the sweet side of the pastel color spectrum.

There is no denying that pastels are a fast up-and-comer. The hues are being shown in make-up for spring as well as on store shelves everywhere. While this is no signal to stop investing in bright colors, it does tell shoppers to mix it up in spring 2012 and invest in both bright colors and pastels. Look for pastel florals, stand-alone colors and soft color blocking. Pastels are a great way to feel fresh and perfect for days when orange, the color of 2012, is just too bright for the occasion.

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Sparkle and shine like its red carpet time

 in General Fashion / Jewelry / Trends  tagged spring 2012 by

One of the biggest trends right now is to sparkle and shine. Whether a Fashionista is shining by wearing Christian Louboutin glitter pumps or a sequin party dress, everyone is wearing at least one item which sparkles. The shimmering trend, which took off in 2011 is heading full steam ahead into 2012. Therefore, it is no wonder that Fashionistas are looking to the red carpet for a little shimmering inspiration. Of course celebrities are always wearing something that shines whether it is a garment, accessory or piece of jewelry.

When it comes to jewelry, many of us assume that celebrities are wearing carets upon carets of sparkling diamonds when gracing the red carpet; this is not always the case. There are many diamond stimulants and other types of stones which appear on the red carpet and shine just as much, or more than, a real diamond. Who knew!?

Recently we took a shopping trip to the Swarovski store and fell in love with everything that glitters; much more than gold. Swarovski crystal earrings, bracelets, necklaces and more graced the shelves of the shop and we soon learned which items were worn by which fabulous celebrity. Of course two of us purchased a pair of earrings worn by Jennifer Lopez; let’s face, J.Lo defines sparkle and shine!

Celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Emma Roberts, Carrie Underwood and Halle Berry have been spotted on the red carpet dripping in Swarovski crystal. In fact, Jennifer Lopez made the “Fit Silver Shade” earrings famous when she was spotted wearing them in a music video. The earrings have become so popular that people have been flocking to Swarovski stores nationwide and asking for the “Jennifer Lopez Earrings.” According to a Swarovski employee.

The sparkle trend is one which is fun and embodies the vibe of 2012 which is light-hearted. During the day, the easiest way to wear this trend is with one key piece such as a pair of shoes, belt or bold and sparkling piece of jewelry. For evening occasions, you can wear multiple shimmering items and shine like it’s red carpet time

Whichever way you decide to wear this trend, you can’t go wrong. Shimmer, shine and stay fabulous

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Goodbye 2011 and all the trends we are happy to leave behind

 in General Fashion / Trends  tagged new years style / spring 2012 / tips by

Happy New Year! 2011 is coming to an end and as we get ready to ring in 2012, let’s reflect on the tired trends from 2011 which are not continuing into the new year, and celebrate those fabulous trends which we will see more of in 2012.

Bye-bye 2011!

Hair feathers and tinsel: While feather extensions and tinsel were favored more by ages 16 and under, a few adults here and there flocked to their hair stylists and had the horrific things attached to their heads. Thank goodness people saw the light and had those things removed. Adios!

Black shoes: Color is the new black. Store black for next year, everyone is bored.

Capes: This fleeting trend never really caught on. While we all ran out and bought a cape, it barely left the closet. Where were we flying to anyway? So last year. Buh-Bye.

Hooker dresses: Tight dresses which barely cover the derrière are so last year. 2012 is all about looser and more flattering silhouettes; plus no-one wants to see your bottom no matter how hot you are-I’m not kidding.

Tights with daisy dukes: While this trend was mainly spotted in Southern California during the fall of 2011, girls wearing tights under cut-offs and daisy dukes was only hot for 24 hours. Just say no. Thank you.

Hello 2012!

Color blocking: While this trend continues from 2011, it has come front and center for the new year. Bring on the multi-colored shoes, handbags and garments! Smile and don’t take it too seriously, this trend is all about F-U-N!

Bold Jewelry: Another continuing trend from 2011. Going back to the mid-1900’s, the new mindset is that “bigger is better” in 2012.

Ankle breaking platforms: The bigger the platform, the hotter the shoe. Flat soles are so two years ago. This trend is not for the faint of heart, make sure you wear it to locations where you won’t have to do much walking. Go BIG!

Clutches: The hottest handbag for 2012 is the clutch. Daytime, nighttime, anytime! Look for bright colors, multi-colors and sparkle. Your clutch should be seen 

Hats: Topping off your look with a hat is all the rage. Look for floppy and colorful hats for everyday and semi-formal attire. For evening events, go royal and try a kitschy fascinator. Hats are fun-make a personality statement.

2012 is all about FUN and making a cheerful, lighthearted statement with your attire. Look for happy bright colors, mixed pastels, fun florals, conversation starting prints, unique jewelry and a hat! Careful in those platforms-pack a pair of flats just in case the balancing act becomes too much 

What are your favorite trends for 2012? Which trends are you happy to say “Good Riddance” to? Leave a comment below or join us on Facebook or Twitter!

Want to laugh at 2010? Click here for our 2010 into 2011 article.

Happy New Years and stay fabulous 

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