This trend is a follow on from the popular colour blocking trend which was big in SS11 and uses one of fashion’s all time favourite patterns, the stripe!

Moschino Cheap & Chic SS12

Stripes can be off putting for some, it can be confusing which stripe you should wear, i.e. horizontal, diagonal – however it can be more about the width of the stripe rather than the direction which can have more of an impact, so to be safe, if you see a stripe and you like it, just try it on! If you don’t like it you can just take it off again, trying it on in the privacy of a changing room means no embarrassment and you could come across a really flattering item.

Rainbow stripes will make bold statements and it might be a bit much for some of us to wear a solid rainbow stripe dress, for example. However, once this trend hits the high street stores, keep your eyes peeled for items that take this trend on in different dimensions. Keep a look out for t-shirts with rainbow stripe panels, or bags that can wear the trend for you and brighten up a plain outfit.

Here are some high street examples of how you can work the rainbow stripe trend…

This bag from ALDO (via ASOS) is £35 and a great way to brighten up your spring wardrobe.

And if you’re feeling brave – try this Just Female maxi dress.

The release of the 2012 version of The Great Gatsby also has influenced the fashion spectrum, expect to see a high number of head scarves and fascinators hit the stores following the release of this classic film.

Expect to see dresses with looser fit and added sparkle. You don’t have to go overboard with this trend, don’t get put off by the very ‘flapper style’ dresses – this trend will filter down onto the high-street and therefore be toned down, but here are some of the designer collections to inspire you!

This trend links into the pastel trend that we will be talking about in the coming weeks so keep posted for more updates!

 Flapper inspired dress from Ralph Lauren

 Straight silhouette from Marc Jacobs

 1920s glam by Zac Posen

Stay tuned to find out how the this trend has filtered onto the high-street and the best ways to wear it.

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Floral prints are always in season, but this year they are back again and be prepared to see lots of floral patterns hitting the high street from the catwalk!

Head to toe floral prints are big this year ….last year it was all about clashing and this year it is about wearing the whole print top and bottom!

Just by adding a hint of floral to your wardrobe essentials can transform a look. Or even if you do not want to copy a whole trend accessorising with a print works well.

Below Peter Som and J.Crew have both illustrated this on the catwalk with a suiting range in bright floral designs.

Digital print is also big this Spring and be sure to see lots of dresses and jackets in graphic floral print!

Diane Von Furstenburg without a doubt has signature prints and she has added her own unique twist on the floral print.

The prints are subtle and chic and completely wearable and flattering.

I love the use of soft fabrics and colour palette that show off these strong patterns.

           
                      

Over the next month we will be updating you with all trends for 2012 and giving advice and looks on how to wear them for your shape and style!

Trends are a great platform for which you can use styles from as inspiration to build your own look and update your wardrobe with something fresh!

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