Something for Everyone – Spring 2010 Fashion Trends

By Guest Blogger: Karen Boggs

Something for everyone! is not just a cliché’ in describing fashion trends for Spring 2010.  Styles will be based on romantic, nautical, tribal and military themes.  A variety of colors will enhance these themes – subdued pastels in the romantic pieces will provide the essence of elegance and femininity, whereas, bright yellows with green undertones will be popular with the military and tribal offerings.

Turquoise, a favorite of many women, will make a come back this summer. Shade of pinks, from cotton candy to hot pink will be popular in clothes as well as jewelry and purses. The combination of white and black always provides a classic, timeless look that works for everyone.

Soft ruffles, lace, and draping fabric will be seen in the romantic pieces. Strategically placed see through material will add hints of sexiness to dresses and tops.  Prints, including patterned, floral and stripes will be prevalent in skirts and pants this spring.

“Boyfriend” blazers will continue to be popular through the warmer months. These are slightly oversized jackets with rolled up sleeves. Bright blazers, in colors such as turquoise and tangerine, can add punch to an existing outfit.  One-piece jumpsuits will provide a fun, playful alternative to a traditional pant/top outfit.  Pants, shorts, skirts and jeans will be offered with higher waists this season. Ripped, shredded and patched jeans will be making a comeback, whether a welcomed one, remains to be seen.

If you want to add several pieces of jewelry to update your look, think in terms of chunky chains, bangles and long, layered necklaces.  Metallics continue to play a big part in accessories this year. Brightly colored, bold bags will be major components in completing an outfit this spring. Quilted classics and tailored clutches will remain favorite styles for many.

Light and neutral colored shoes in tans and beiges will abound this season. If you prefer color, greens and blues will be good alternatives for you. Cork and rope covered heels will provide interesting accents to the popular wedge shoes. Heavier sandals, often including a thick ankle strap collar, will be the rage. However, keep in mind, these styles do not elongate the leg line and can make calves and ankles appear heavier. As you know, all trends are not for everyone. Real style is about finding clothes that fit and flatter your shape-stamping them with your individual flair and wearing them with confidence.

Happy Spring!

About Karen Boggs

Helping women determine the best styles for their shape and size is the goal of style consultant, Karen Boggs.  Founder of Renew You, LLC, Boggs works with clients through one-on-one shopping sessions and closet consultations. Along with corporate training on professional dress in  the workplace, she enjoys speaking to various women’s groups. Boggs has contributed to a variety of publications including Indianapolis Woman and Enjoy! For more information please visit www.renewyoustyle.com.

Creating the Illusion of an Hourglass Shape by Karen Boggs

Creating the illusion of an hourglass shape is the biggest step you can take in obtaining your most attractive look. This is achieved by keeping your top and bottom in proportion and having clothes cinched in, at least slightly, at the waist. Rather than wearing loose, shapeless clothes, look for tops and blouses with seams, darts or pin tucks that will provide you with some shape. Do not assume these styles will be uncomfortable. As long as they are not too tight, they should work well even for the most active woman.  An easy suggestion – hold your top or blouse up on the hanger – if it is perfectly square, it is not going to provide your most flattering look. However, a top with some shape built in, will be a great choice!  A small amount of lycra or spandex in the material provides structure, which can be a plus. Avoid thin material, as it tends to be clingy and can emphasize those places you don’t want noticed.

If you want to appear thinner, consider wearing clothes which will elongate the neckline.  These include tops and dresses that show some skin at the neck; for instance, V-necks, scooped out necklines and blouses with several of the top buttons left open. Avoid turtlenecks and tops that come up close to the neckline -these tend to cut the neck in half and can make you appear heavier than you are. Also, to elongate the neckline, avoid short and choker style necklaces -opt for ones with a little more length.

When putting together an outfit, concentrate on creating ONE focal point. Whatever the eye is drawn to will be a focal point – such as shiny material, bright colors, large print and even bold pieces of jewelry.  You do not want to put one of these focal points on your least favorite feature, for obvious reasons. Since a color change anywhere on your body will draw attention, do not have these changes meet at your largest area. A different colored top and bottom should meet either slightly above or below that point.

Too many focal points create a distraction and end up competing against one another. Keep this in mind when it comes to your accessories as well. If you are wearing a striking piece of jewelry, it is best to downplay the other pieces you are wearing.  Be sure and keep your accessories like belts, purses and jewelry in proportion with your size. A larger woman can carry off larger bags and bolder jewelry, whereas, a small framed, petite woman may look overwhelmed with accessories that are too large for her.

Remember, the lines, colors, textures and patterns of all your clothes create an illusion.  Strive to use these illusions to your best interest…sending out the impressions YOU choose to send!

About Karen Boggs

Helping women determine the best styles for their shape and size is the goal of style consultant, Karen Boggs.  Founder of Renew You, LLC, Boggs works with clients through one-on-one shopping sessions and closet consultations. Along with corporate training on professional dress in  the workplace, she enjoys speaking to various women’s groups. Boggs has contributed to a variety of publications including Indianapolis Woman and Enjoy! For more information please visit www.renewyoustyle.com.