Now that we've seen Spring in Europe - what does it all mean?

The European fashion shows in Milan and Paris for this spring 09 have just ended - and while there was a smattering of glam one-shoulder gowns with beading, what we saw - just in time - was a return to realism.  No more runway fantasy for a world that loves its visual escapism, but can no longer pretend world crises - economic, environmental - don't exist.  Yes, there were some new silhouettes and looks and colors - but the spring clothes were far less dramatic than this fall's pallette of rose buds and wild prints and chunky beads.  The clothes were tamer, chicer, more tailored - but not tough or too sexy or trying too hard to make a statement.  These clothes make a nice backdrop for putting your life, your causes and your family first - and letting clothes be more organic, instead of yelling your arrival.  These clothes can actually be worn for many years - they follow some new trends, but don't scream out a particular season.

We've put together a little guide of the major trends from the European shows that can help serve as bellweathers for you - so when the fall clothes go on sale next month (yes, it's not that far away!), you can shop and know that the pieces you're buying will carry you all the way into summer 09. 

A few tips: Everything is belted, even jackets.  Pants are either slimmer and shown matching long sculpted jackets ("the skinny suit") or made out of silk or chiffon, flowing like men's pajama bottoms.  The big colors are ochre, orange, yellow and rust - and simple black is looking very chic for spring, for those who like a utilitarian aspect to their wardrobe.

Coming tomorrow - TRENDS FROM THE EUROPEAN COLLECTIONS...

Comments

[Cartridge Recycling]

I loved the way you exlpained things. Much better many here

Regards
Kristina