(See what we did there? Like the love child of ‘Got milk’ and ‘You’ve been tangoed’)
Laura Reynolds looks at the hype surrounding the collaboration.
Just a week to go until the man in red arrives...
As winter releases us from her icy grasp, its finally time to ditch the fairilse knits and embrace a bit of spring slash summer loving. Admittedly, I am not a spring person; I obviously can’t complain about the improved (slightly warmer than winter) weather conditions. But as for the S/S seasonal trends, I’m no avid fan. My over worn yet trusty Levi shorts adequately see me right through until September, without a ditsy print in sight.
That aside, here is my look ahead to what spring / summer ‘11 brings to the shops and ultimately your wardrobe.
THE NEW MAXI
Although maxi skirts and dresses will continue to fight for prize position in our wardrobes in S/S 2011, it will face tough competition in the form of its latest rival. I introduce - the midi, which is self-explanatory really, anything calf-length or the half-way point between the mini and the maxi. The midi has steadily been creeping its way from the catwalks onto the high street but it looks set to reign supreme this forthcoming season. Swinging pleats are the choice of the day styled with graphic print tees or pretty, sheer blouses and lady-like heels.
By night I would team asymmetric lines and graduated hems with block platform sandals and maybe a dash of leather to contrast the delicate fabrics. As my views on the maxi go; I am simply not tall enough. However, I am a firm believer of the mantra - don’t knock it until you’ve tried it and so I won’t.
A FRINGE and FLARE AFFAIR
Welcome back to the Seventies. If you want to be pernickety circa ’73, ’74. Think a 21st century take on the Seventies mixed with all the goodness of tribal chic. As trousers remain popular, it is no surprise that one of the pivotal items channelling this trend is a fresh update on a leg wear classic. I give you the kick flare, bell bottom, bootleg x100, call it what you will. Personally, skinny fit will always have a special place in my wardrobe but maybe with the new year that will change. I do think it will take substantial time for these to replace the skinny jean though. Resist conformity and team pale denim bell bottom flares adorned with patchwork detailing with knitted tank tops with and of course, the IT shoe of the year - the platform.
The flare (plus bell-bottomed sleeves) go hand in hand with fringing and it has no limits. My initial reaction is ‘oh really’ but the other day my best mate rocked a lush fringed biker jacket, so maybe it’ll rub off in time. Pringle showcased the trend with shoes while Betty Jackson went the extra mile with her black ostrich feather trousers as did Matthew Williamson with his bejewelled, tasselled purple, black and cream dresses and fringed skirts. Bag, shoes, coats, skirts - you name it you’ll find a fringed equivalent.
If you are struggling for inspiration look to [www.wheredidugetthat.com www.wheredidugetthat.com] - founder Karen epitomises Seventies styling.
PRINTS (as per.)
Oh quelle surprise!? I for one didn’t see this one coming. Cue blatant sarcasm. What could it be this year? The return of the floral / animal / tribal print. Oh all three you say? Sort of. Think the brighter and busier the better a la McQueen (or Rihanna‘s newest video). Bright abstract and geometric prints steal the style limelight this spring. But if you cannot resist one of the standards throw cut-out suede or crochet over crazy florals to capture the folksy feel, plaster yourself with playful polka dots and flatter yourself with feathery patterns. All at once. More is definitely more this spring.
A BURST OF COLOUR
Last but by no means least, accessories. Bold rainbow hues look set to be the colour of choice for bags, shoes, belts etc. As before, the brighter the better. Fashion packs predictions are that orange and green in particular are set to be the favourite. Neon will try to slime its way in but I don’t see 2011 being the year of the return of the nu-rave craze.
Pop colouring will extend its efforts to the make-up counters of the high-street. Light pinks and oranges on the eyes coupled with blueish-black liners and topped-off with strong red lips will prove a popular look. Judging by the general theme of S/S ‘11 fashion weeks worldwide, unnatural hair colours look set to become a big trend this forthcoming season too. A welcome burst of colour, hurrah.
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