Are you bored with your style and in a fashion rut? If you’ve been thinking about revamping your wardrobe and the way your present yourself in 2011, now is definitely the time to toss out the old (literally) and usher in the new!
Yet contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to overhaul your entire closet to make a big statement. Not only do small additions prevent you from sacrificing your personal style, but they’re easy on the wallet to boot.
So before the S/S 2011 collections roll out in stores, make a list of must-have items to integrate into your existing closet for a budget-conscious, style-friendly upgrade.
Hot Trend: Stripes
Sailors, ahoy! From apparel to footwear, and accessories, stripes are everywhere this season. Try a Breton sailor shirt if you’re a self-proclaimed classicist, or if your style is more romantic and feminine, opt for a pink candy striped dress in a lady-like silhouette.
Hot Trend: Neon
Highlighter colours in acid green, fuchsia and blazing blue were all the rage on the S/S runways. To adopt this Technicolor trend, think of one standout piece that works within your personal style. For the prepster, a punchy-hued trench coat would make a colourful splash, while a multi-coloured Mondrian-esque dress would appeal to an avant-garde artistic type. Too scared to jump onboard the neon wagon? Try introducing the trend in accessories like bags, shoes or jewellery.
Hot Trend: Seventies
That’s right; get ready to pull out your wide-leg pants and platforms because the seventies are making a swinging comeback! Floral chiffon maxi dresses with ruffled hems will no doubt win the hearts of boho hippies, while wide-leg trousers in easy, fluid fabrics will look impeccable on minimalist mavens. For accessories, try an eye catching floppy hat or across-body fringe bag.
Hot Trend: Biker Chic
Most notably attributed to the design house that created a biker-chic frenzy, Balmain’s influence was heavily prominent for S/S 2011, albeit in a less ornate way. Instead, styles are lighter in colour palette and much more streamlined in construction; think of the new wave as tough-biker-chicks-who-lunch. While you still can purchase a classic biker jacket, why not opt for a glamorous style in high-shine silver, perfect for hitting the town over a ruffled dress. Or, for classics with a twist, other options include structured trench coats with quilted epaulettes and zipper sleeves, as well as a sexy mini skirt with biker detailing in warm buff tone leather.
