My Overview Of Spring/Summer '09 Trends

After looking through the internet, magazines, a few shops and tv (going to look into more sources soon), I thought it would be good for me to give you my own review of some of the latest trends for this season.

Along with the bleached denims, western, big shoulders, crazy print and jumpsuit trends there are a few I like the sound of surprisingly enough!

I'd buy leopard print things anyway, but it appears this fits into a new trend! Natural Prints have been seen on numerous S/S 09 catwalks, with designers such as Alexander McQueen, Christian Lacroix, Christopher Kane and Jimmy Choo being inspired by nature's art. One thing I really love about this new look is that this isn't just dealing with animal prints; for example, Christian Lacroix looked deeper into the people wearing his clothes and I'm amazed by this oversized necklace representing a human skeleton. Other unusual inspiration includes wood-grain, fossils, x-ray images and even guts, yuck! Talk about wearing your heart on your sleeve!

A more elegant look at nature has given us the inspiration for the next 'Emma-approved' trend: Petals, Prints and All Round Prettyness. Very traditional floral prints are making a comeback, but this time less cute cottage and more metallics and modern twists. This weeks Grazia has a good page showing some of the things on the highstreet which have been inspired by designers like Dolce & Gabbana, John Galliano and Moschino. I really love one of Fendi's dresses which is covered in appliquéd pink and white roses, it's the ultimate girly dress! I've already spotted a gorgeous pink floral skirt in H&M which i may have to grab. Why not try mixing a pretty floral dress with some black shiny leggings or a chunky gold bangle or two (which are a growing trend on their own).

This leads me on to my next exciting prediction. Metallics were a growing trend last year, and they seem to be coming still with more futuristic fashion in our sights. Not only is more and more metallic fabric being used, but unusual details and silhouettes are being used. Gareth Pugh and Gianfranco Ferre are great designers to look at if you want to see their super spacey creations.
"Metallics are innately bold, but this season's dazzling golds are textured, beaten and beaded, creating an even stronger first impression", executive fashion designer of Vogue.
On the highstreet, I think you're probably going to find much more toned down versions of these shiny silhouettes - I've seen quite a few of accessories out there and Topshop have some great textured metallic items, like these crinkled gold jeans.

A few more S/S 09 must-haves include one-shoulder dresses, skin tones, sheer fabrics (if you dare!), bright block colours (another favourite of mine), BIG necklaces, and crazy shoes;
"Spring's shoes are real works of art, bedecked in ribbons and feathers, beads, metallic ruffles and sharp studs. This seasons styles are extreme", fashion features associate, Vogue.
So it seems this year is all about standing out, making a statement and being brave. just have fun finding the trend that suits you and I think you could be surprised.

I'm going to Nottingham on Thursday to do some shop research, and hopefully I'll be able to tell you if some of my favourite new styles are out there and where to get them!