Spring 2009 Trends

The new silhouette this season starts from the shoulders, the hugely prominent big shoulders provide a revival to the 80's. For SS 09 shoulders are going to be authoritative, tailored and self-confident.
Also big in 09 are tropical colours, wonderful pistachio, lime, papaya, lemon, kingfisher blue, also lots of nudes as well, neutral is everywhere. These particularly suit fair and redheaded people. Prints abound, wonderful parrot prints from Peter Pilotto, big polka dots. Look too for ruffles and bows and softer gothic lace to create a more feminine feel.
The look is unmistakeable and is seen in up-to- date women business suits, also carried over into blouses, little squared dresses, jackets, and even the humble t- shirt has built-in shoulder pads. Jeans are ripped or embroidered.
For a cheap, chic update, slide a pair of detachable shoulder pads into a cardi or coat. Combine the boxy jacket with new peg trousers, cigarette pants or capri pants. Short suits featuring sexy hot pants combined with a jacket, are another tribute to the 80’s.Jumpsuits are figure hugging in slinky jersey, bright colours, and leopard prints.

And if you’re going for it, remember that this look needs 100 per cent commitment. Finally to make this look really work, you should add retro accessories or better still rolled up sleeves for a genuinely 80’s feel! Look for scarf type belts, bug glasses and huge chunky and chandelier earrings.
Dresses have shoulder pads, many have embroidery and embellishments, look for simple shifts in bright tropical colours. Skirts are pencil or tulip shaped to complement large double breasted blazers. -Gabrielle Teare