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spring 2009: top fashion trends from new york fashion week Sep 17, 2008
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Let's face it, not every season brings a fashion revolution. And with a particularly tipsy economy looming above, Girlawhirl didn't expect anything radical to occur at Spring 2009 New York Fashion Week. She was thinking more in terms of evolution, not revolution. In the end, she was overcome with the exuberant optimism played out on the runways, and taken in by the themes, colors and sometimes just plain kooky combinations. From shine and shimmering fabrics for day, to jumpsuits, harem pants and plenty of flowers, ruffles and bows, Spring 2009 is sure to be a lively time for fashion… Harem Pants: Different from the wide legged silhouettes Girlawhirl saw on some runways, the Harem Pant is full through the hip and leg, but then is banded at the ankle. It's sure to be a new addition to wardrobes all over America because it's easy to wear without being over the top and will provide women with an option that falls somewhere in between pants and a skirt. The key for making it work in the real world versus the runway? Slim fitting tops, flattish sandals and the recognition that the pant itself is the most forward piece of the outfit, which means keeping over the top accessories to a minimum.
Kooky Colors and Patterns: Girlawhirl means kooky in the best way! The mix of folkloric and abstract patterns – colors she thought would have clashed – and more, was an enduring theme during New York Fashion Week. While the trend doesn't quite translate to ‘anything goes,' it will allow for a more relaxed attitude towards her usual ‘what color can I wear with that?' dilemma.
Jumpsuits: Girlawhirl recognizes what retailers refer to as a ‘key item' when she sees one, and for Spring and Summer '09, she's pretty sure the hottest key item of them all will be the jumpsuit. Whether it's casual-chic with shorts - like a sophisticated romper – or all dressed up – like the black boat neck number at Max Azria – Girlawhirl figures this is one trend she'll buy into.
The Blazer: It's not the typical suit jacket that caught Girlawhirl's eye on the runways, but the blazer thrown on over a dress, pant or even pair of shorts; not to create the look of a suit, but for a bit of casual ease, as if to replace the cardigan she usually thinks to reach for. Slightly oversized, and definitely not uptight, the idea of throwing a blazer over her bare shoulders come Spring and Summer '09 is something she's sure to incorporate into her look.
Pretty Floral Prints: Last Spring was all about flowers! From the oversized flower worn by Carrie in Sex and the City: the Movie to an abundance of floral prints and patterns designers sent down the runways. Now that Girlawhirl and her Super Pals have added a little bit of flower power to their Fall '08 wardrobes, the trend will continue with pretty watercolor prints that look like a Monet painting, abstract oversized patterns that hint at the flowers that inspired them, and everything in between.
Colorful Crops: Skinny pants are part of Girlawhirl's wardrobe regardless of the season; it's just a look that works for her. But for Spring '09, she'll have plenty of colorful cigarette pants to add to her closet. From hot pink at Matthew Williamson to red at Carolina Herrera, the idea of a bright pant paired with a neutral top and accessories – a complete flip flop from how she usually puts together a look – is something she can't wait to try.
Graphic Black and White: Every season has its own version of black and white, whether it's fall's hound's-tooth or a crisp clean stripe for spring. In Spring 2009, the positive-negative of black and white will pop up in everything from swirling florals and embroideries to boxy graphics.
The Slim Silhouette: Girlawhirl admits that she loves a slim silhouette. Whether it's a body hugging sweater over a skinny pant, or a pencil skirt topped with a belted jacket, this one's always a winner in her book. For Spring '09, there were several slim looks that made her heart leap, from a perfectly proportioned black suit at Charles Nolan to the shimmering off-white opening look at Tracy Reese.
Controlled Volume: Since opposites attract, there was also plenty of volume on the Spring '09 runways. But Girlawhirl liked the way designers kept it under control; sometimes with a belt or in other cases just because of the lightness and sheerness of the fabric itself. Some of Girlawhirl's favorite examples are the sheer jacket at Ralph Lauren, chic see through cover-ups at Philip Lim and Erin Fetherston, and belted blouses at Carolina Herrera.
Details to Keep an Eye On: There's always more to pay attention to, and for Spring '09, Girlawhirl's keeping the following details on her radar: collarless jackets, trench and pea coat styling, bows and ruffles at the neck, defined waists, the belted shift dress or shirt dress, chunky necklaces and strapping.
photos courtesy of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week
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