Posts Tagged ‘Spring summer 2010’

floral tunic top

After a winter of dark colours and thick knits, it is always such a welcome change to move into spring and start wearing something a bit lighter and brighter. Of course as we well know the weather in spring time can be really changable ranging from as hot as mid summer to as cold as mid winter. But the days are beginning to get longer and floral patterns are the perfect way to cheer ourselves up. There is nothing quite like a bright floral pattern to make you feel on top of the world. We love this floral tunic not only for its cheery bold colours but also for its amazing versatile style.

A tunic works so well for those days when  you want something a bit more feminine than trousers and a top but don’t want to go the whole hog and wear a dress. Its long line and ability to cover tummy, hips and thighs make it instantly flattering and great for those that are not 100% confident with their body. It flowing shape is elegant and chic making it suitable for a range of occasions from formal to casual. Its long sleeves but loose fit mean that it works equally well for a cooler day or really hot day. The belt at the waist is great for adding some shape and the v neck is another really flattering feature.

The combination of pink and orange is particularly striking and unusual and the white background really make the flowers stand out for maximum effect. If there was just one item that I must have for my holiday wardrobe it would have to be a floral tunic, perfect for a cover up on the beach or by the pool, with denim shorts in the day and a pair of white trousers for the evening. The v neck also lends itself to being accessorised with a beautiful necklace. For an amazing holiday look, you could even try wearing a flower in your hair in either pink or orange.

Tunics are a really classic piece of clothing, perhaps because they are so comfortable to wear and flattering. They are a great investment that will work year after year and never go out of fashion. For an updated look for this year you could even try wearing a floral tunic with clashing floral or checked leggings. A daring but stylish look and one that is sure to get you noticed. Another great way  to create a really colourful outfit is to team your floral tunic with some brightly coloured leggings or trousers, pink would look amazing for a hot summer day. For those who prefer to dress in a more classic style, a pair of neutral trousers of even jeans will work equally well.

To accessorise a floral tunic take your pick from neutral bag and shoes, perhaps a tan leather across the body bag and tan leather gladiator sandals. For a smarter outfit a bright pink, orange or white clutch bag will finish off this outfit perfectly.

Packing to go away on holiday is always bit of a stressful situation for many women as they are often uncertain as to what take with them.  A lot of women struggle to decide on what type of attire is suited to their trip and consequently compensate by packing much more than is necessary for their holiday.  They often believe that by giving themselves more choice when they arrive at their destination that they are making the situation much easier for themselves.  However, with airlines becoming increasingly stricter about the weight of luggage allowed on board on the plane it is more important than ever to pack sensibly and include only the essentials if excess airport charges are to be avoided.

As we inch ever closer to the summer, it seems many people have got the holiday bug and are planning their holidays.  It therefore seems appropriate at this stage to provide a few hints and tips to keep in mind whenever shopping or simply packing for your holiday.

For those headed for sunnier climes then it is advisable that a pair of cropped trousers are taken along.  Cropped trousers represent a very diverse style of trouser which make the perfect piece of holiday clothing.  The great thing about cropped trousers is that if the right pair is bought they can be worn in a range of situations, thus meaning fewer clothing items need to be packed.  Cropped trousers are the perfect choice of clothing when it comes to deciding what clothes to wear on the flight.  Not only are cropped trousers extremely comfortable so you will feel relaxed throughout the flight but they also make the perfect day to night item.  It is possible to simply wear cropped trousers with a  t-shirt or top during the day and then wear them out to dinner in the evening when they are teamed with a more formal evening top.

In addition to cropped trousers it also a good idea to pack a number of sleeveless tops.  However, it is important to ensure that the tops that are packed are relatively plain and simple.  This is important as it means that each of the tops can be worn with practically anything and they provide you with a bit of choice when you get there.  Whatâ??s more by opting for sleeveless tops you will be able to stay cooler during the day than if you opted for a top with sleeves.

However, despite the fact that you are going to a warmer climate it is important to remember that at night time it is often quite chilly.  Therefore with that in mind it is important to bring some sort of cover up along.  Whilst sleeveless tops are perfect for during the day when the sun is out, they are not ideal for the evening.  Although in the interests of keeping packing to a minimum rather than taking a range of long sleeved tops to wear during the evenings simply pack a couple of cover ups.  Shrugs and boleros are perfect for taking on holiday as they can easily be worn over a sleeveless top whatâ??s more they are still quite lightweight meaning that you will not be left feeling too warm when you wear one.  Again, it is a good idea to opt for a cover up which is relatively plain and neutral as it can then be worn with a limitless number of outfits.

These items are must have holiday items which can be worn in a number of combinations and which can be worn in a range of situations, both casual and more formal.

It barely seems like a year since this event was last held but it would appear that we are edging ever closer to race season as this weekend sees the annual ladies day at Aintree and the Grand National both being held.  Both occasions always promise to be eventful in the fashion stakes, and provide the women attending with the opportunity to showcase their choice of formal wear.  Whatâ??s more the fashion on show here paves the way for what ladies should expect from Royal Ascot as ladies day at Ascot is considered by many to be the crème de la crème of race fashion.  Nevertheless whilst many women love to marvel at the many ensembles chosen by the women in attendance it is often events such as a day at the races which cause women problems in the fashion department.  However, it is much easier than many think to create a sophisticated races look.

The first and most important thing is to remember that such events are formal occasions and as such only occasion dresses are appropriate.  In addition to this many racecourses have a strict dress code which they tend to impose, so it would be beneficial to check to see what the dress code is to ensure that you are dressed appropriately.

Secondly, Aintree and Ascot are both held in the Spring/Summer season and consequently warrant a summer look.  However, even if you not lucky to be attending a high profile such as the two aforementioned it is still probable that your event will be taking place in the same season, so choose an occasion dress which is suited to the time of the year.  It is a good idea to opt for occasion dresses which reflect spring colours and patterns. Floral patterns are particularly big this spring and occasion dresses with a floral pattern would consequently be the ideal choice.  However, it is important to ensure that if you opt for a floral pattern that it is not too imposing or over the top as this can detract from the look of sophistication that many women hope to achieve at such occasions.

Despite the majority of racing events being held throughout spring and summer it is important to note that the Great British is all too often unpredictable.  Although it is forecast to be a glorious weekend this weekend the weather is often interchangeable.  It is therefore important to bear this in mind when deciding which outfit to wear.  Many occasion dresses tend to be sleeveless so it is advisable to bring a cover up along to keep the cold at bay.  Shrugs and boleros are a great way of covering up as they are fine and delicate and will consequently blend in well with the majority of occasion dresses.  In addition to this they tend to be light so should the unlikely occur and you are simply too hot then the shrug or bolero can easily be removed and carried about without causing too much inconvenience.

Finally, the one thing which is synonymous with ladies day at the races and must consequently be given careful consideration is a hat.  Hats are common place at the races and in some instances it is almost expected that all women wear hats.  However, a quick check of the dress code will let you know whether a hat is a necessity or not.  Moreover hats a great way to create an air of sophistication and glamour.  However, it is important to ensure that whichever hat you chose that it coincides well with your dress.  If your dress is quite simple then you can afford to go for an extravagant hat.  However, only less decadent hats should be considered if the dress to be worn has a lot of detail, otherwise the whole ensemble will appear over the top.

These hints and tips should help to create a summery, yet sophisticated look suited to a day at the races.

Spring is just around the corner and it will soon be time to pack away those woolly jumpers in favor of some lighter clothes. As we move into Spring, we naturally want a bit of  a change and to update our looks. Each season fashions and trends change but there is no need to change your whole wardrobe. By updating with just  a few key pieces, you can look fresh and up to date without breaking the bank. Spring summer 2010 is all about modern classics, so anything that you buy this year is likely to last for many years to come. Here are five key pieces that will bring your spring wardrobe right up to date.

Trench Coat  -The Burberry Prorsum catwalk was full of classic trench coats for spring summer 2010. Whilst the trench coat is right on trend this year, it has never really gone out of fashion, probably because it is so versatile. Perfect for keeping dry in those April showers and it goes with just about everything from jeans and casual to work wear.

striped top

Nautical top - Navy blue, stripes and nautical detailing again are right on trend this year but this classic look is timeless and chic. A nautical top like this stripe detail top is the ideal casual top for wearing with jeans or smarter trousers for instant sophistication. Think Coco Chanel, the French Riviera and sitting aboard a private yacht.

Floral blouse - Florals are every where this year and the brighter the better. A floral blouse is the perfect way to add some feminine charm to any outfit. Wear with jeans for a casual but eye catching look or with  a suit to add some colour to your work wear. If you really want to be the centre of attention try wearing with a brightly coloured skirt for an eclectic and trendy outfit. Again, a key investment that is likely to be in fashion year in and year out.

shift dress with belt

Classic shift dress - This is the ultimate in flattering and timeless chic. The perfect shift dress can be worn with simple accessories for daytime or work and dressed up with heels and some sparkle for the evening. It can also be transformed with  a patterned or coloured scarf. If plain black is not your thing, there are plenty of other colours shift dresses to choose from including this seasons must have neutral and nude shades.

Wedge shoes -If there is one must have pair of shoes for the season, it is the wedge. The perfect way to add some height and glamour to an outfit without the discomfort and impracticalities of stilletos. There are all sorts if stylish wedge shoes to choose from including cork and raffia. Ideally a neutral colour will go with all of the outfits in your wardrobe and allow you to get maximum mileage out of just one pair.

So spring summer 2010 is also about classic looks and investing in key pieces that will never really go out of fashion. These pieces can easily be accessorised to create so many different looks and are ideal for so many different occasions.

If you don’t fancy this summers trend for nineties minimalism, then fear not, there will plenty of bright bold and eye catching prints to satisfy almost any desire for colour and pattern. For those that like to get noticed, these prints can be worn all over in a real attention grabbing statement. For those that are a little more shy and retiring when it comes to clothes, an accessory, patterned trim or scarf is the perfect way to work this trend. The catwalks were awash with the most amazing and attention grabbing of prints but it is really up to you whether you opt for bright and bold or small and subtle.

For the really brave, there is another big trend emerging for the summer- mixing patterns. There really is no science behind it, just give it a go and see how it looks. Try clashing colours and clashing patterns or missing two very similar patterns. If you don’t feel confident in your own pattern mixing ability, try buying clothes with more than one pattern. Perhaps a striped top with a floral collar or a patchwork effect.

Here are some of the patterns and prints that will be be big for this season:

Abstract Prints

The term abstract means ’of or pertaining to the formal aspect of art, emphasizing lines, colors, generalized or geometrical forms, etc., esp. with reference to their relationship to one another’. In terms of prints abstract covers a huge variety of different patterns from the bold geometric to the delicate speckled. The great thing about abstract prints is that they don’t represent anything they are just colour and shapes for the sake of colour and shapes. On the catwalks for spring and summer 2010, there were all sorts of abstract prints. Mary Katrantzou who is becoming recognised for her eye catching prints used abstract patterns to enhance the shape – a great trick of the eye.  Versace featured geometric circle prints in eye popping colours and Nicole Fahri, swirling patterns in blues and greens.

Animal Prints

Animal prints were seen at Paul Smith, Giambatista Valli and Alexander McQueen. There were leopard spots, zebra stripes and snake skins. This can be a difficult look to wear all over with style, but it can easily be toned down by wearing in small doses combined with neutral colours. Mixing animal prints with other prints like the animal print top pictured above or even other animal prints (as seen on this amazing animal print skirt) is a great way to wear this look in a fresh and up to date way.

Spots

Spots and dots are always a popular summer choice for clothes. There is something a bit retro about a polka dot dress and polka dots always hit just the right note between smart and cute. Designer Caroline Herrera is well known for her use of polka dots on her very desirable dresses in the eighties and nineties. For those are looking for  a change from the  traditional polka dot pattern, different sized dots are a great alternative. For a really flattering and slimming effect opt for fairly small dots on a dark background.