Rainbow stripes is one of the bolder trends for SS12, however, it is one not to be afraid of, this trend can be adapted to be worn in a variety of ways.

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some people say that in hard times we revert back in time for comfort and re assurance. This trend is reflected in one of the trends for SS12. The 1920s made a strong appearance in several designer’s collections shown at fashion week.

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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With so many Christmas parties coming up sometimes you just don’t have the time to think of enough outfits to wear for all of them. However, fear not, adding a pair of statement earrings can help spice up any outfit, if you have a trusty black dress but fear it is too ‘boring’ pair it with some great earrings (and maybe a great clutch) and then you’re good to go.

Statement earrings can be worn with your hair up or down, whatever you feel more comfortable with, sometimes having your hair up and wearing longer earrings helps elongate your neck, or if you prefer to wear your hair down they will still look great.

The other great thing about statement earrings is that you don’t have to blow your budget to get your hands on something fabulous! There are items available at all price levels and here are some of the best currently available.

If you want some classic, ‘chandelier’ style earrings, head to Net-a-porter who have some stunning earrings available, including these Swarovski crystal ones by Erickson Beamon. At £355 they are at the top of most peoples’ budgets but a sure way to add a great touch of glamour to your look.

Erickson Beamon £355

Not sure you need quite that much ‘bling’? These ‘bohemian’ style earrings are a great choice to wear day and night, a perfect addition to the day to night outfit for all those after-hours get soirées.

Debenhams £76

 

If those two are still a bit out of your budget then head to Topshop who always have a great selection of costume jewellery, with statement earrings playing a big part in their current collection. If you want something a bit more ‘quirky’ try the feather drop earrings below, or if you want something a bit more sleek, the gold swirl earrings are a great choice.

 

Topshop feather £12.50

 

 

 

 

Topshop Gold swirl £7.50