Whenever a year is coming to an end a new year soon to begin it is customary, if not inevitable, to look back at the things that have happened these past 12 months—some things good, some things bad, and perhaps many unexpected. It is most definitely a time to reflect on these things and how you might change or continue to improve on them, but it is also a time to look forward to trying new things.
Here is a look back on 2011 fashion: the things I would have changed, the things I adored, and the fabulous pieces and trends we can all look forward to in 2012.
Perhaps this is just personal, but I really did not enjoy the clashing print trend that seemed to take the runway and Internet by storm this year. I mean the head-to-toe print look is already difficult to pull off, but then add the clashing element and it just gets downright hard to figure out.
Though I was not a big fan of the crazy print on print look, I was a huge fan of color blocking with bold colors. Gucci’s spring 2011 RTW show was color-blocking perfection as rich greens, purples, gold, and oranges made their way down the runway.
The arm party. Now, I have mixed feelings about this one: for one, I did actually start out loving the arm party and trying to invite my favorite bracelets to attend, but then somewhere along the line it became more about how many “unique” (aka weird) bracelets you could stack and less about the aesthetically pleasing look of your favorite pieces combined to make a fun and stylish statement.
I 98% back Vogue’s choice to name Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen 2011’s best dressed (only because I think a few other people were fierce contenders). Deny it all you want, but these young ladies have style and a lot of it… times two! If you are not convinced by how they choose to style themselves you have to admit that their pieces on an individual level proves that their taste is impeccable and their designing isn’t too shabby either.
The 2011 designer collaborations made the “things I would change” list, especially Missoni for Target. Target stores sold out in minutes, websites crashed, people yelled, and people bought printed Missoni for real Missoni prices—I’m not even sure what to think about that last part, it still boggles my mind.
Okay on to a couple of exciting trends to look forward to in 2012—I just love a fresh start… and a fresh wardrobe!
Prabal Gurung Spring 2012 RTW photo: style.com
Ken Downing, fashion director of Neiman Marcus, has coined the term for spring’s hottest pants, “fancy pants.” You’ll most definitely want to grab yourself a pair of brightly printed, floral, animal print, graphic printed pants. If you were into the bold colored pant this year, this should be an easy next step.
Jason Wu Spring 2012 RTW photo: elle.com
Peplum /ˈpepləm/ Noun: A short flared, gathered, or pleated strip of fabric attached at the waist of a woman’s jacket, dress, or blouse. So ladylike, so fabulous.
