Innovative Spring/Summer Fashion
28-03-2008
This Spring/Summer is set to be one of the most vibrant, alluring and experimental of them all. With designers setting the forecast of global meets glam meets off-the-shoulder meets the tropics!!
These are some of the strongest trends going, but if you’re not completely sure which is suited to you, or are hesitant to try a daring new look, opt for the simplest of changes that shall without a doubt still have a huge impact of your style, giving it an update and you a huge boost!
One small adaptation to your wardrobe/style is venturing out into the world of accessories – invest in a range of different bangles and cuffs – in varying, materials, colours, textures and sizes. Include them into your outfit and you’ve a guaranteed change, but make sure to be creative – using just one, unless the clothing your wearing is made from diamonds will look non-existent, so layer up and show us your artistic streak…
But accessories, although can make or break an outfit, are a tiny part in this feature as the trends I’m talking about speak for themselves and need no dressing up…
Starting with the neither un-complex nor challenging styles – is the ‘off-the-shoulder‘ neckline. The ‘IT’ Neckline for the summer! This style oozes eloquence, sex appeal and femininity. Draping over the body creating an aspirational silhouette of elegance. A move in this direction offers major kudos! Plus with some designs you get added glam and accents of global to you look, bumping you way up in the fashion stakes. An example of this is the ‘grecian‘ dress, not only do most feature the off-the-shoulder neckline but they can also either be kept earthy and sensual in shades of white, cream and caramel as seen on the catwalk by Lanvin or upped a notch with an impact colour, which we can see is an impressive display of this by Gianfranco in fuchsia. Hermès made for an utterly glamorous take on the Grecian style dress – a white draping garment with metallic sash detailing trim.

Refrain from neck jewellery/accessories as it most definitely clash with the neckline – focus on eye catching earrings or statement cuffs up one arm.
Big prints have been a massive trend that by the looks of things has no intention of going anywhere just yet. The twist on this look is the design of the print. It’s time to think ambitious ethnic, tribal, African and native Amerian influence – as seen on the Balmain, Etro and Oscar De La Renta catwalks. Think safari chic – Matthew Williamson and Michael Kors had some sensational pieces in their collection, Oriental/Japanese kimonos and you could even go as far as Indian Summers with saris.
Bringing us on to the fabulous trend that is – Tropics – uplifting and perfect for the summer. Colours to watch out for are orange and fuchsia. A striking design by Nanette LePore uses this dynamic duo of colours with a combining accent of grey. Jaeger also has a fantastic piece for those wanting to embrace the bright and warming tones of tangerine and fuchsia, as does Alberta Ferretti with the Ferocious orange dress below.

For an instant touch of LUX add glitz (an everlasting trend) to your ensemble with metallic accessories or you could settle upon a metallic dress (with shimmer?) – all of which will enable you to achieve a red carpet look.
Other trends to grace the catwalks this season are: Odyssey, nautical, florals, ruffles, geometric prints, animal, the all-in-one, 70’s, checks, romantic, feminine chiffon and lace dresses, colour blocking, dip-dye, violet, neutral, red, white and blue, and sheer. So there’s no question about it, there’s a trend out there made for you. You just have to experiment with them all until one fits.
By Luisa Savino







