As we say goodbye to the long cold nights of winter the days are getting longer, soon the skies will be blue with rays of hot sunshine. The shops are full of clothes that are bright and can turn a dreary day into a blooming ray of sunshine.
The key to wearing this season’s style is to know what suits your proportions and frame. Small and petite women should stay clear of anything big and brash! Big Boobs avoid huge ruffles and bows on tops!
Spring/Summer 2008 has got the designers going green. It’s official Green is the new black! The eco debate is here to stay, you will see more eco friendly clothes in the shops from the cheaper market right through to the high end stores. The key factor in environmental style is the raw materials. Designers are going for fabrics produced using traditional crops; versatile fibres like bamboo, hemp and soybeans even recycled plastic to seaweed. Weaving and quilting using traditional means by indigenous cultures put a personal stamp on the garments. The development of plant-based, non-toxic dyes are now being used in today’s ‘green clothing’.
Colour is back. The hottest colours to be seen are electric blue, the sunniest shade of yellow, dazzling white, hot pink, purple and sugar almond are the order of the day.
Tie-dye, dipped or marbled effect fabrics are going to be appearing in the stores in various form from long, short dresses to tops and even trousers.
Anything floral - flowers and foliage from big and blousy to delicate and ditzy.
Stars and stripes – You too could be an American Idol. Another must have for this season from clothes to accessories. The nautical look will be hot for this summer, ‘ahoy captain’
Dresses - will be big. Whether its office smart of party diva the shops will be full of something for your taste. Romantic and ethereal or short, sharp and sporty, the see-through drew was a hit on the catwalks but and the high street will be selling their own versions. The draped dress is one of this seasons most flattering trends. A touch of Grecian draping will add glamour, long or short, one shoulder just play to your strengths. From maxi to shift to the mini you will not be disappointed The Maxi dress – is still a fashion staple and was seen on the catwalks and will start appearing in the shops.
Trousers – styles to suit all body shapes, ranging from slouchy to skinny, cropped to flared or tailored. High-waisted trousers. The skirt will cinch in your waist and slim you down instantly. Jodhpurs were seen on the recent catwalks and the shops are selling their own styles. Jodhpurs are not for everyone, so wear with great care!
Shorts – city short, short shorts, high-waisted forties style shorts, culottes and combat shorts were seen on the catwalks and will be in the shops shortly. Not advisable if you have sagging knees and dimpled things.
Skirts – Its time to wax, tone and tan as this season’s skirt is feminine and flirty. If you are daring go for the second skin sexy mini, high waisted skirts are still a hit
The smock that hides a multitude of issues is again in for the new season, but it should be worn shorter with a 70’s twist.
Tailoring – For this season the tailored suit has been given a make- over. The jacket has had it’s sleeves cropped, an ideal option for summer and perfect to wear with jeans
Jackets and coats – The Mac, an essential purchase for your wardrobe, keeps your dry in the April showers but it also looks stylish. This garment every women should have in her wardrobe as it can be worn over casual or smart clothes. Leather jackets were still on the catwalk for this season. Bolero jackets and sleeveless jackets can be worn with a variety of garments.
Bling and Embellishments are still hot for this season. If you are blessed with ample assets stay clear of the bling on your top half, stick to bling on your bottom half. If you are pear shaped, bling works well on the top as the detailing draws attention away from your hips. All over embellishment works for slender ladies.
Shoes and Accessories -The focus is on the foot this season. Be bold and daring. Heels are essential for this season. Wedges and Espadrilles have been updated in bold shades and a curvy silhouette. The Gladiator sandal is hot, down to earth by day, decadent by night; the flat strappy sandal is an ideal match with long floaty maxi dresses.
Belts -Showing of the waist is still a must. Just add that touch of femininity to a shapeless outfit with a waist-cinching belt. Belts adorned with stones, just think of a large glitzy necklaces worn round your waist.
Bows-Bows were a big hit on the catwalks with the designers on the catwalks and will be appearing in the stores. They have been seen tied around the waist as a belt and even to jazz up a simple top or dress. The bigger the better but make sure you wear the right size for your proportions. Even shoes have bow and ties at the ankle or across the foot! Top heavy sisters stay clear of big bows on your tops.
Bracelets - Bangles are big. Just stack them on and pile them high whether it is wood, metallic or colours of a spice market. Chunky bangles come in all shapes and sizes, wear all at once for maximum impact. Remember big bangles don’t look good on small and petit frames.
Necklaces - Enamelled, beads, and pendant’s either super sized or super shinny neck wear will be the accessory to be wearing. Draw attention to yourself with strings of delicate beads cute collars and oversized pendants.
Sunglasses - Every lady needs a pair. Keep things clean and simple in black or white but if you are feeling that bit daring try coloured frames in blue, yellow, red…..you will see the world through tinted lenses. Work it like rock star!
Bags - This season it’s all about grabbing attention. Super sized perfect for the nine to five and even to carry your gym kit. Art and crafts design are heavily worked with stitching, embroidery and appliqués either on big or small bags, clutches are still a big just go for out and out glamour. Slouch bags in the softest leather for that touch-me feel me factor.
FINALLY……………..
Make up - The look is polished is essential but must appear effortless