There is a light-as-air, breezy feeling to spring this year. Fabrics are soft to touch and easy on the eye, Florals burst into bloom, while sweet violet in all its sugared shades is the new spotlight colour. Feminine, flared and flirty is the way forward soft, in faded blue washes and wispy frayed seams.
And the emblem you must have? Stars, stars and stars.
Americana
A retro twist on the nautical look, this trend takes its styling cue from the 50’s and 70’s. Revel in Americana this summer and swap last seasons bold geometric prints for spots, stars and stripes the American way, letting the print dominate will show off your catwalk credentials. Polka dots, five-pointed stars and graphic stripes have a new grown-up glamour. Key pieces include; Candy Striped dresses, cork wedges and washed out denim. Illustration by Alice Casseldine
Petal power
The Catwalk was filled with the scent of heady summer florals and glorious garden prints, all so pretty. Balenciaga’s spring/summer 2008 show was filled with bright floral tea dresses, from simple sketched sprigs to vibrant mixed bouquets. Angular cuts and exaggerated silhouettes lend a modern edge to retro florals.
Swishy skirts
Spring's skirts come cinched at the waist and cut high at the hem, and the “dirndl” shape (A full skirt with gathered waist) reigns supreme. Decorative extras - sunray pleats, prints and pockets - add extra oomph and are so practical.
Soft safari
Soft and delicate are the words that best describe this season fashion - and that includes the safari style that has infiltrated the catwalks. Christopher Kane’s SS08 collection was packed full of lightweight safari wear, instead of the heavy fabrics associated with the look. Spring's take is one with flyaway chiffon (Christopher Kane), tulle (Gianfranco Ferré) and lightweight suede (Donna Karan). Get the look at Highstreet favourite Zara - their belted trenches are a must-have. Easy pieces like oversize blazers and baggy shirt dresses bring a relaxed attitude to tailoring.
The statement press
Glorious Summer gowns in hot Summer colours need no accessories.