Spring Trends

The past few weeks, I’ve been participating in some much needed retail therapy with my girlies. I found several therapists at the Galleria and at the Houston Premier Outlet mall. They have vowed to remain confidential, honest and supportive. Their names are Ralph Lauren, Armani, Aldo, BCBG, Bebe, Ann Taylor, Arden B, Santana and Banana Republic.

Of course, I couldn’t have made it without my girls. You (know who you are M & J) were there to wipe away the tears, share the giggles and enjoy the orgasmic shoe shopping. As much as I enjoyed my therapists, when I arrived home it was the time you spent with me that meant the most.

In addition to support from friends and learning from your mistakes, I’m a strong supporter of retail therapy, which I thoroughly enjoyed the past two weekends. While we were able to take advantage of the amazing sales and clearances to get some classic pieces for fall and winter, we grabbed a severa pieces that are perfect for the transition from winter to spring.

Walking through the malls, there were signs everywhere about clearance prices being slashed...70% off at BCBG, another 50% off at Arden B!! And, even more exciting were posters and mannekins displaying the new spring collections - short skirts, bikinis, tropical colours, patterns, tank tops, dresses, sandals!! While I love wearing my sweaters and boots in the fall, even more I love the colours and dresses of the spring/summer.

Trends this season reflected the ultra feminine. And, to keep it no-fuss the feminine trends were incorporated with menswear. Here are some of the trends that I noticed in my favorite shops. Some of these trends are simply an extension of what we saw in the fall/winter collections. So when taking advantage of the sales and clearances, try to pick up pieces that reflect some of these trends.

1. Butterfly motifs. Butterflies are typically seen as symbols of feminity, beauty and grace, but also of a new beginning or change. Desi coutoure has picked up on this trend as well. The butterfly sari blouse is sexy and chic. When looking for ways to wear the butterfly, as I always say with your style, keep it simple. Make sure the butterfly is delicate, elegant and sophisticated. Or, add a simple butterfly necklace to an outfit.

2. One shouldered tops and dresses. This trend has been around for several years and does not appear to be going away any time soon. It is simple, classy sexy at its best. Unlike legs and cleavage, shoulders are delicate and sensitive like the neck. It is being sexy, without exposing too much skin like a Greek goddess...or Desi goddess. Keep the Grecian silhoute simple and the colour bold.

3. Sheer and see-through fabrics. It is very easy to make this trend trashy, but try to mix pieces and layer to ensure a soft and feminie look. Play with colours as well. Arden B has some beautiful sheer tunics in tangerine...playful and sexy.

4. Gladiator shoes. The sexiest shoe for 2009 is are going to be “the cage”. They are super strappy gladiator shoes. My personal choice is simple stiletto heel, but the wedge heel is hotness as well! Booties and zipper details are still the craze for spring.

5. Floral prints. Big flowers or mini florals, they add a touch of feminity to your wardrobe. For the girlie girls, you will feel like Charlotte in either of these patterns and as any part of your wardrobe. For the not so girlie girls, pair a mini floral top with jeans, stilettos and a structured leather jacket to keep it chic.

6. Jumpsuits. They are chic and mod – Charlie’s Angels sassy, sexy and classic. If you can only get one piece this season, opt for a simple silhouette in black and pair with simple accessories – heels, clutch, bracelet, diamond hoops and a statement ring. For a bold colour jumpsuit, check out Bebe.

7. Maxi dress. The maxi dress has become the staple of the spring/summer wardrobe. They are versatile in where they can be worn and by whom. Wear the maxi dress for grocery shopping, children’s birthday party or a casual dinner or night out. My favorites are by INC by Macy’s, BCBG, Old Navy and New York & Company. Choose a pattern that reflects your personality. Transition the maxi dress from breezy weather to summer with a structured leather jacket.

8. Ruffles. Wear the ruffles in an earth tone shade, with simple soft cascades or structured menswear pieces for a modern edge. For a fun night on the town, have fun with the ruffles. To wear it for work or a dinner party, keep the ruffles simple and focused on only one part of your party.

Are there any trends that you are excited about? What trends do you wish would come back? Or go away? Post on the blog or email me at desigirlhouston@gmail.com.