Spring/Summer 2011 Fashion Trends Report

After the austerity of many shows from the previous two seasons (largely due to the economic downturn) this season, designers are taking a more optimistic view.

The overriding direction is one of simplicity—stripping back to basics with an almost childlike emphasis on bold colour statements married with simple silhouettes making for a very uplifting spring/summer 2011.

Key Trends:

Summer Romance

It’s time to rock the gypsy "skirt" once again ladies, this look is all about comfort. Peasant tops, ruffles, tiers and lace; this is definitely a trend for the ‘Little House on the Prairie’ girl in all of us. Go for whites, apple green, lilac and tan as seen at D&G and Isabel Marant.

Invest in: Broderie Anglaise, gingham, A-line denim skirts, shirt dresses and gypsy skirts.

70s Chic

It’s time to embrace the 70s for summer, channeling studio 54, Yves Saint Laurent safari chic and the summer staple of boho hippie as seen at Marc Jacobs and Salvatore Ferragamo. When it comes to this hedonistic decade with a smorgasbord of styles, there is something to suit every shape, size and pocket.

Invest in: Chiffon maxi dresses, kick-flare jeans, hotpants, suede and safari dresses.

Rockin’ The Rockabilly

Most definitely a look for fashion forward extroverts, this trend lends another nod to the 70s, with influences from the mid-decade punk invasion mixed with overtones of teddy-boy-inspired tailoring. Channel your inner rock chick, taking influence from the runways at Balenciaga and Balmain and sport the basics with leather and denim or go full throttle with leopard print, mesh and sleeveless blazers.

Invest in: Black biker jackets, drainpipe jeans, striped knits and button-down sleeveless shirts.

Activate

Simplicity is the name of the game for this down to earth, active style. Think streamlined and functional in neutral tones, making this the perfect trend to take you from casual office wear to cocktails with the girls on a balmy evening.

Look for pieces with plastic zippers, drawcords, mesh inserts and sheers as seen at Marni and Acne.

Invest in: Parkas, sheer tees, zippered gilets, cargo pants and parachute-silk dresses.

Columns of Color

It’s all about color blocking with this trend. Simple lines and minimal silhouettes are given a boost with bright pops of color; tangerine, yellow, royal blue, pink and green with accents of black and sand. This is a very flattering style dominated by columns of color, as seen at Prada and Céline.

Invest in: Skater skirts, shirt dresses, boxy Harrington jackets, slouchy pants and tailored knee-length dresses.

So ladies, kick off the winter blues and head straight for summer with these five key trends. Remember, it’s all about the way you interpret a trend in your own unique way that ensures you wear the look, and the look doesn’t wear you!