Spring 2011 fashion shows were full of pattern, bold colours, and vintage silhouettes. However, when fashion flows from the runways to the department store racks things can seem like they’ve been lost in translation. What looks great on a 5ft10″ model may not work for you in your everyday life.
Here are 5 possibly risky Spring 2011 trends and how to make them go from runway haute to real life hot.
1. Flares or Bell-Bottoms
While the homage to the 70’s was a sensation on the spring runways flares and bell-bottoms are not a particularly flattering look for anyone with bigger hips or thighs. Throw in any kind of whiskering or fading and you got a recipe for an unfortunate pear shaped look.
Best Way To Translate This Trend: Trade in these vintage throwbacks for some high-waisted, wide leg trousers. Classic and well fitting, these pants can slim you out while still channeling the glamour of the disco era. Make sure they fall in a smooth, straight line from the hips to the hem and pair with a great pair of colourful platforms.
2. Denim on Denim
The chambray shirt is a casual yet classy look for spring. However, matching this carefree staple with faded jeans may lead to a denim disaster also known as the “Canadian Tuxedo.”
Best Way To Translate This Trend: The best way to pair a chambray shirt with jeans is to make sure that both are in a shade significantly darker or lighter than the other. A safe bet is to pair a chambray top with black, white or any kind of khaki hued jeans. Visually break up the outfit with a bold belt and be sure to avoid blue or indigo coloured accessories.
3. Overalls
No matter how fitted or trendy looking these pants seem when you spot them in Levi’s, remember that you are not a farmer. While the pocket on the chest may seem functional it’s a whole lot of jean for spring and summer.
Best Way To Translate This Trend: Avoid this fashion crime all together and fulfill your need for a onesie by trying a romper or a jumpsuit. Fitted at the waist and matched with a great pair of heels the romper is a cute and casual alternative to the pants you once sported in the third grade. Pairing a romper with a great jacket, a belt and bold accessories can break up the outfit and really define your shape.
4. Sheer Everywhere
Sheer tops, lace panels or see-through maxi dresses seem like a sexy way to show some skin without really putting it out there. However, it’s impossible to do this trend without worrying about what kind of undergarments you’re wearing.
Best Way To Translate This Trend: If you are going to do the sheer trend do not try it at work. Find pieces that have small sheer details, such as at the shoulder or in a panel at the back of a dress or shirt. Also, when shopping with this trend in mind, wear a bra you think could work with the outfit (so you can actually see if it does). Consider investing in bold coloured bandeau bras or, for backless sheer pieces, try adhesive bra cups.
5. Glorified Fanny Packs
The belt purse, an updated version of the fanny pack, was seen on the runways in bold colours and expensive leather. While it seems functional and leaves your hands free to do whatever they please you can’t actually fit as much in them as you can with a purse. Oh, and it still pretty much looks like a fanny pack.
Best Way To Translate This Trend: If you’re really concerned about losing your wallet, consider trying a tiny leather satchel with a long strap (which is also in for spring). Complete the look with a loose flowing top held together with a waist-cinching belt and you’ve got the style and function of a fanny pack without the compliments from the other 80-year-old women at the casino buffet.
Comments