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 After a season of bold jewel tones and blingy metallics, designers have swept the runways for Spring 2008 with a refreshing breeze of softer, neutral and washed out hues in transparent, gauzy fabrics that play with the light of the new season. From the fashion weeks in Milan, Paris and London to the runways of New York there emerges some trendy must-haves for this season.
But let's talk about colors and fabrics first. This season is all about breezy pales and cool neutrals such as sea-foam green, blush, biege, and washed-out versions of violet, turquoise, and lime. Combined with silk organza, taffeta, linen and chiffon fabrics, this season focuses on sophisticated dresses, skirts and slim pants with great transparency. Fabrics are gathered, blown, pleated and draped to create ethereal forms and delicate texture. While transparent dresses, skirts and pants and peek-a-boo cut-outs may be all the rage on the runways, we have to exercise some judgment when trying to incorporate them into our wardrobe. For everyday wear, sheer fabrics have to be worn so undergarments do not show. Transparent blouses should be worn over camisoles or under jackets or vests. See-through dresses should be worn over opaque layers: slips, pants, skirts or shorts. Infuse transparency into evening wear with sheer fabric panels covering open back and low tops or dresses. Full or fluid skirts of layered transparent fabric are perfect for formal attire and sheer wraps are an easy way to follow the trend.
 Okay, some must-haves for this season:
- Lucite heels are back. Whether shoes, clutches or bracelets, lucite is back.
- Wedge heels are still in, high or low, to complement floaty dresses.
- Oversized baubles, chunky bangles and metallic bracelets are big for the season.
- Anything in Silver Gray is in. This color can be worn with just about any other color.
- Leopard print is still here whether in belts, handbags or undies.
- Lace, ruffles, drapes and intricate pleats are in.
- Off the shoulder dresses and tops are a big feature this spring.
- Tote bags, vintage doctor-style and frame bags as well as across-the-shoulder bags are in.
- Maxi dresses can be floaty, straight cut or transparent.
This season, play up your feminine curves with hourglass accentuating accessories such as thick or thin belts or obi style sashes. Wrap dresses are fabulous for women of all shapes and sizes, making body-skimming wrap dresses sheathed in gauzy fabric another must-have this season.
Can't wait to get shopping. This should be a fun season for dressing up or dressing down. |
