What will you be wearing this Spring Summer?

I know, I know, it's only February, we're all still shivering in our chunky knits, but time stops for no man and this is certainly true in the fashion industry.

Most of the sales have come to an end now and with that means the new season stock is filtering though. So what are we meant to be wearing Spring Summer 2012? I have given the low down on this seasons trends and where to find them on the high street, but don't forget, as Yves Saint Laurent said "fashion fades, style is eternal", so look for items that will stand the test of time, suit your body shape and your lifestyle and that can be worn a variety of ways (think capsule).

Prints

Rodarte

Beautiful bouquets and paisley prints were featured by many designers.  Florals were big and bright.  Go as bold as you dare.  If big prints are a step too far for you, incorporate this look with a scarf or try a bright T and team with a plain jacket to break up the print.

Warehouse £50

Whistles £75

The 20's

Gucci

Channel The Great Gatsby with ultra glam drop waist evening wear.  Love this look but don't like to show your arms? Try a fur (faux of course) wrap.  With a looser cut this style dress is great if you're conscious of a tum.

All Saints on sale £147

River Island at ASOS £45

Colours

Phillip Lim

Think sugary cup cake toppings.  Don't forget everyone can wear every colour, it's just finding the right way for you.  If pastels wash you out, wear it on your lower half, or accessorise with a pastel belt or bag.

Mint Velvet £79

Dune £75

In complete contrast to the sugary pastel shades, yellow is tipped to feature a lot, not a shade for everyone though, but who can resist a little sunshine in their wardrobe?

Oasis £45

Shapes

YSL

It's all about the waist, 50's full skirts, cropped tops and peplums.  Perfect for creating the hour glass body shape.

Lipsy £65

Sports Lux

Versus

The new season sportswear, isn't about chucking on your trackies and working up a sweat.  It's all about the details, exposed zips,mesh and shiny anoraks.

Warehouse £45

So what do you think you will be wearing this Spring Summer?  Will you be updating your look or wardrobe this year?

Are you going wild for animal print?

I love animal print particularly of the leopard variety.  I have a pair of Dune flats that I have had for a couple of years now and i'm so sad that they are finally having to be sent to shoe heaven.

This is one area where I get most resistance from clients, and I kind of get it, not being much of a print wearer myself.  However animal print is such an easy way to add an interesting touch to an otherwise mundane outfit and I promise you won't end up looking like Bet Lynch.  Animal print can be lux, a statement or a subtle addition, it will not date and can look classic or contemporary.  It's everywhere on the high street at the moment too and this is one trend that you should invest in as you will get so much wear out of it year after year.

Add a animal print belt to a simple shirt and trousers combo and straight away you look chic.  A black dress, thick opaques and a leopard print boot is one of my favourite combinations.  Or make a statement with a bold print accessory.

A few items available in the shops now.

Duo Boots

Topshop

John Lewis

ASOS

Wolford

So have I persuaded you to try a little of the wild thing in your wardrobe?  Comments are great - pictures are even better!

Versace For H&M

As collaborations go, this is a pretty exciting one. The collection is full of pieces that look straight off the versace runway.

“The collection for H&M is the essence of Versace,” said Donatella Versace. “For the collaboration we’ve brought back from the archives, as well as from more recent collections, some of the icons of Versace, such as the bright prints, the Greek key and daring cuts. I can’t wait to see how H&M’s wide audience will make these pieces their own.”



Really love Donatella's parting words, "my house, my rules, my pleasure", I don't doubt it for a second love.

Singing in the rain

I live in the North West, rain is an everyday fact of life for about 11 months of the year.  So when I saw these little beauties I had to share.  These will cheer you up even on the greyest of days.

Love Umbrellas are a Manchester based company that produce the most gorgeous umbrellas that can be customised however you like.  Perfect for brides and days at the races or for just keeping the rain off.  Prices are so reasonable and would make a lovely gift - I'm a fan of the clear dome if anyone was wondering :0)

Bright pink heart shaped umbrella... can be used in sun or rain - £18 

Absolutely stunning - Ivory Edwardian umbrella with red flowers on each panel - £23

I have featured a pair of Muddz on my Facebook page before, however I couldn't write a piece about rainy days without these sparkling wellies now could I?

Since 2009 Muddz have been adorning the feet of festival goers, celebrities and those who simply want a bit of sparkle on their wellington boot.

Muddz Boots - Front

Flower strap boot £79.99

This mac from Topshop is such a cute buy at £49 what better way to add some fun to a rainy day?

Topshop £49

Boden Rainyday Mac £115

Don't forget to get in touch if you have any questions regarding image, style, body shape, fashion or shopping. 

I'm off to do a rain dance...

Spring 2011

There's a few different trends predicted for Spring 2011, from biker chic to floaty florals. Block citrus brights to loud prints and barely there hues. It's hard to know what us normal girls should be investing in, especially while the weather still means hats, gloves and scarves are the must have accessory.

One trend that really seems to have taken hold is 70's glamour and I must say now - I love this look. Don't get me wrong I'm not talking mustard coloured cord flares worn with brown paisley large collared shirts. This look is all about taking the best bits from the era and mixing them with modern pieces.

Wide leg trousers, high waisted jeans, oversized accessories, maxi dresses and jumpsuits will be the staple items with modern chiffon staples thrown into the mix. A truly classic trend that I foresee might be around way past spring summer 2011.

ASOS

Gap

Hobbs NW3

Office

Topshop

Topshop

Whistles

All That Jazz

With the release of Golden Globe nominated Burlesque, starring Christina Aquilera and Burlesque Undressed which follows British showgirl Immodesty Blaze.  Don't be surprised if Spring Summer sees us channelling the Dita Von Teese within us.

Louis Vuitton

So how does this translate for us 'normal' folk?  Well it's all about the vintage glamour, evening wear of fringed or flapper style dresses à la Louis Vuitton and femine tailoring for the day.  Lace is another big trend which easily fits into this style and the high street is awash with it at the moment, don't just go for black, nudes work really well with this look.


Here are a couple of high street finds that may inspire you, all you will need now is a quellazaire, super high heels and you're set...

Topshop

Warehouse

ASOS

Oasis