Top Ten Trends for Spring 2011

Spring 2011 has something for everyone. Here are my top ten choices for a stylish spring.

1. Wide legged trousers

Relaxed, high waisted and wide legged trousers and jeans for spring extend the eye for a leggier, taller appearance. What is there not to like?

2. Maxi Dress or Sk

irt

Remember the maxi dress from the 1970s? It's back, with less rock and roll and more sophistication. Pair a long skirt with simple tops to avoid looking too dowdy.

3. Prints, floral and ethnic

Prints abounded for spring, in tiny bouquets, big, bold floral abstracts, tribal, ethnic and the exoticism of the east.

4. Platform Wedge Sandals

In the interest of comfort, choose a flat wedge platform sandal for a quick update.

5. Stripes

Spring's sporty look translates into bold stripes in dresses, tops and accessories, but narrow stripes paired with a midi skirt looks quite chic.

6. Midi skirt

Hemlines fell this spring from minis to mid calf or longer, but are far from matronly, especially when striped or in a brilliant color.

7. Vibrant Color Combos

Tonal color combinations exploded this spring----pinks, oranges, turquoises, bright yellows, lime and emerald greens, deep purples, teals and electric blues. The brighter the better!

8. Ruffles

Ruffles remain a mainstay but as you can see, are far from twee!

9. Lace top

Keep it simple and not too seductive for a ladylike look, in black, white, or nude lace, eschewing colors.

10. Minimalism

Less can be more when stripped down to simple, architectural lines, proving that minimalism need not mean boring.

As with most seasons, there are dualities. Neon colors are contrasted with the absence of color, in bright whites and muted nudes. Fabrics are lacy as well as sheer. Skinny pants and jeans are paired alongside the wide legged versions. Minimalism is softened by the prevalence of ruffles, as well as the peasant boho look from the 1970s. Denim continues to be a strong trend, not just in jeans, but in tops and skirts. Safari and military trends continue from the fall.

Anoraks and parkas help update the preppy and nautical look.

Enjoy the mix!