Citrus Colors
Black, white, gray, and taupe made a starring role this season with many designers playing it safe, but for those who used color, bright orange and lemon yellow made the strongest statement. (Rosa Cha, below)
Cropped Tops
Unlike the lower-belly-baring looks of the late ’90s, these hearken back to the first half of that decade–think Kelly, Brenda, and Donna of the original 90210. For good measure (and the most flattering look), pair with higher-waisted bottoms. (Vena Cava, below)
More trends from NYFW this way after the jump…
Japan
Obi belts and kimono sleeves appeared everywhere from Marc Jacobs to Chado Ralph Rucci, and while exotic in many ways, it’s a silhouette that’s widely flattering on many body types. (Ports 1961, below)
Cutouts
An understated–yet still sexy–way to show skin for spring, cutouts popped up allover the body, some with mesh or lace insets, and others totally bare for an even more daring look. (Max Azria, below)
Petals
Spring also brought out the ultrafeminine in some designers; many shows featured several looks with skirts (or entire dresses) that looked like they were made out of flower petals. (Dennis Basso, below)
Biker Lite
Looks like leather will be sticking around for spring, but in cropped silhouettes, pastel colors, and ultralight, washed finishes. (Yigal Azrouel, below)
Pegged Pants
A lot of women probably think they can’t wear pleated pants with a tapered, ankle-length leg. But considering I saw a pair on nearly every runway, I’d be willing to bet there’s a style out there for everybody. (Julie Haus, below)
Embellished Necklines
Who needs jewelry when you have a highly decorated gown? Perhaps a reaction against ostentatious jewelry in these harsh economic times, these frocks leave the adornment to the dressmaker. (Badgley Mischka, below)
Strong Shoulders
Get used to ’80s shoulder pads–they’re here to stay for another season at least, the better to balance out boyfriend blazers and body-conscious dresses. (Tibi, below)
