Spring/Summer 2010 Fashion: 15 Trends You Need to Know
Spring/Summer 2010 will be tough on your body - this season's trend will force you to get fit if you are not already. From the minis to the skinnys, from the sheath to the pencil skirt, you have to be slim to look good in this season's popular ensembles. There are a few comfortable favorites - a shirt dress, a wrap dress and a scarf that would cut you some slack, otherwise stop at the gym before you want to try this season's styles. On the other hand, menswear inspired trends are prevalent in boyfriend jackets, military look and a variety of pants. Here is all you need to know about this spring's top fashion trends.
The Boyfriend Look
Ladies love to borrow. First, it was the boyfriend jeans quickly made popular by Katie Holmes, then it was off to the boyfriend blazer, and now the shorts and jackets. It's a casual sexy look - a statement without trying too hard. Both leather and tailored jackets pair wonderfully with long feminine dresses. It's a tough and bohemian look blend.
Denim Leggings
Fall leggings and skinny jeans morphed into Spring denim leggings. Every color goes but the lighter hues of blue and whites will rock the season. Denim is popular in other variations too - skirts, jackets, blazers, so accept this democratic fabric in your entire wardrobe.
Nautical Stripe
Hey, sailor! The nautical stripe made popular by Coco Chanel in the 30s and then made mainstream by Ralph Lauren is the print of the season. It looks lovely on tops, blazers and even shoes. You can play with color too - blue stripe is as much an option as is black, grey or red. Another interesting trend this season is that the nautical stripe can appear as a sort of an accent on a larger piece.
Minis and super-short shorts
You better have a great looking pair of legs because this Spring it's all about shorter lengths - tiny mini skirts and short shorts. The shorts tend to be on the preppy side - think Givenchy tailored short suits. Shorts have outlasted many trends but this year they are particularly stylish with a more structured look and even paired with leggings by Alexander Wang.
The Long Skirt
It's somewhat of a bohemian vibe with skirts trailing the floors this season. In a way, it's the antidote to the funky and spunky mini. The long skirts of spring can be plain or ruffled, in the popular pale pink and in plain or sequined neutrals. They are beautiful paired with a cardigan or a sleeveless ruffled top, a blazer or tons of statement accessories. And as long hair is the new trend (particularly braids), you can look all-around bohemian with this natural accessory. This is also a very romantic look, a classic in a way.
Shirtdress
This is a perfect style for a walk in the park, a day shopping, or going to an important meeting. In other words, a shirtdress is a very versatile item, and you will be grateful for adding one to your closet, since it is bound to last. In a way it reminds me a of a little black dress, a classic. You can try a sleeveless shirtdress for those hot summer days, or a ruffled one, but plain nicely structured shirtdress can be beautifully accessorized. Cotton is your best choice if you want the best structure and a nice fit. Opt for a smaller belt to elongate the look or a wider belt to emphasize the waist. This dress, alike a wrap dress, is flattering on most body types.
Florals and pastels
Naturally with the blossoming flowers and budding leaves, this season is huge on color. However, this spring we see a more subdued, feminine look with pastels (pale pink in particular) and nudes painting the way. Florals add an interesting textured appeal and are omnipresent in long skirts and flirty ruffled tops.
The Cardigan
A preppy look will get you far this season. Paired with skinny jeans or a pencil skirt, a floral dress or khakis, the cardigan is a hit since winter time. It looks more elegant than a jacket and is light and perfect for many occasions. Pick stand-out spring colors and look for light yet natural fabrics for a better fitting and longer lasting look.
Wide-Leg Pants
Still in since Fall, the floor-skimming long wide pant is a trend-setter yet again. It's a sharp office look and a fun dinner with the girls look. It pairs nicely with a white shirt or a fitted blazer. Add studded shoes for instant glamor or pair with sensitive kitten heels or ballet flats. I am picturing Marlene Dietrich kind of look. Consider variations of the fabric too - not just linen for spring, but silk, jersey, pleated and chambray. Armani and Max Mara have the best looking wide leg pant so far.
Military Look
It's common for world trends to be reflected in fashion. This season in particular, the military trend is strong - in jackets, tops, dresses, the khaki style of the trenches is in. There are interesting details this spring - epaulets (military jacket with epaulets is the hottest item of the season), cord braiding, dogtag necklaces.
Cargo Pants
This is one of the most practical trends! Pockets for essentials, easy breezy fabrics and a neautral look that goes with very much everything. Plus, these pants are easy to accessorize for glamor or tone down for a casual look. Layering works wonders with cargo pants - add a shirt and a vest, a scarf, perhaps, and you've got a hip look. Try a higher heel for comfort, but definitely a thin heel vs. a wedge. Cargo pants are a hot trend through fall.
Tie-dye and Chambray
You can almost feel the breeze from the ocean when you see these happy summer shades - hippies and surfers rejoice! This is a subtle variation to the pale tones of spring. As long as you stay open to the variety of pieces you can wear in this color combination, you've got this trend right.
Tribal Look
Fashion trends form long before the actual season arrives. So it may seem a direct influence of the mega-hit "Avatar" but it's likely the global merging of cultures and the intensity of tribal looks that find their way into the runways. Think of fringe, graphic patterns and other artisanal influences. Bold prints and African inspiration make an imprint on the skirts and dresses of the Spring season.
Leopard Print
As if to wake up the growingly popular neutrals, leopard print wakes up the spring streets with a hint of pizzazz. An obvious choice in the jackets and belts, it's also beautiful in dresses and edgy short skirts. Celebrities are certainly embracing this trend, particularly in outerwear and shoes.
Polka Dots
The whimsy of polka dot appears throughout most retail locations. And I love how fun it is! It reminds me of the effervescence of the 50s and the ease of summer nights. Try it out on dresses, skirts and even scarves.
Most of the moms in my mom group are putting their kids in preschool this fall. My son just turned 3, but I just don't think he is ready. Plus, I am a stay at home mom and I would like to spend more time with him. I feel a little pressured to start him in preschool but I am just so conflicted about it. Should I do it or not?
Samantha, WI
Answer:
Once your son starts kindergarten, there will be years of formal schooling ahead, so preschool is not a must. In fact, the focus of most preschools is not on education but rather on social skills. Kids learn to spend time together, to socialize and, most importantly, to sit in a circle for a few minutes of discussion or play time. Schools look for this ability to focus (stay in a circle) and that's where preschools help with this foundation of learning along with their peers and focusing on tasks. That said, if you have the time and patience, you don't have to follow the crowd into preschools. You can sign your son for some classes that many community centers offer these days - sports, music, art, etc. Virtually all classes have an element of circle time, so your son will have a chance to practice this much needed ability to focus. You will have to stay active - taking him to playgrounds or scheduling time with friends for play groups, so he gets enough interaction with other kids. You can absolutely create your own plan, it just requires a little more time. However, you will be able to spend more time with your son and will have the flexibility of your own schedule. And if you realize a few months down the road that preschool may be a better option, you can always join then. After all, motherhood is all about changes. Good luck!
