We've all heard the saying that history repeats itself, and this statement is relevant in the fashion world. Major designers launched their spring lines during Fashion Week this past January and February.
Fashion Week is the time when numerous designers put on fashion shows in major cities in Europe, as well as in New York, exhibiting their new spring lines -- the clothes shown are the best indicator of what will be in style that season. Though each designer label has a distinctiveness that differentiates them from all the others, there are always a few overarching trends which tend to dictate what will be hot that coming season.
This spring, much like the past few seasons, we will see a return to the classic and timeless. Nothing embodies this idea quite like the trench coat.
This season, however, instead of just the traditional beige or black, this wardrobe staple is popping up in fun, spring colors like green, blue and pink, and is being shown on the runways of top designers such as Kenneth Cole, Perry Ellis and Burberry.
A big comeback this season is the return of the dominance of head-to-toe white. This forever-in-style trend was displayed in the toned down, neutralized white outfits of Versace, and the bright whites of Ralph Lauren, Oscar de la Renta and Louis Vuitton. Some designers give this returning trend some personal flair by adding small bursts of color, in the form of a scarf, handbag or shoes.
The spring also sees the return of past trends, in particular, inspiration drawn from Greece and Asia, as well as nautical and safari influences.
Though these trends keep reappearing on the runway, it is hard for normal people to wear them in their everyday lives. The Asian and African safari trends in particular are hard to pull off, and never seem to last the entire season. Greek and nautical trends, however, are more classic, and tend to outlast the current season.
The important thing to remember for trends, especially those influenced by other cultures, is not to dress in that trend head to toe.
Try mixing an Eastern top with your favorite pair of jeans, or sailor pants with a classic white oxford. Wearing too much of one specific trend will make you look too costumed and will put the focus on your clothes, instead of on you in your clothes.
Because runway fashion is usually a bit over the top for day-to-day life, especially in the world of college students, it is important not to get carried away with the current trends, since many trends tend to be a flash in the pan; think Ugg boots, trucker hats and culottes (apologies if anyone is still sporting any of these fashion faux-pas, but they were never fashionable to begin with). Classic pieces like a great trench, A-line skirts, straight leg trousers and a fabulous pair of jeans will always be in style.
The key to looking great, feeling comfortable with what you are wearing, and yet still being fashion-forward is to have your own personal flair that incorporates timeless pieces with your own funky style.
