The Top Five Trends Coming in Spring 2011

By Sammie

Just as we’re sadly parting with our flip flops and trading them in for knee-high boots (theoretically…not me, though.  I keep wearing mine till Thanksgiving!) we get a sunny reminder of what we’ll have to look forward to this Spring: crunches until we die and gorgeous drapey dresses.

Yes, Fashion Week is officially over and it’s time to dive into that much needed brownie, models! to take a look at what we’ll all be wearing once the snow melts this June spring.  What do the designers have in store  for us? (In store? Get it? Store?! Ha!) We’ve watched every last show and seen every last look (thanks, Stylelist!) and here’s what’s coming for Spring 2011.

Oh, and don’t worry – it will not be this.

Citrus Colors

Jason Wu for TSE, Tory Burch, Yigal Azrouel

Even a splash of bright yellow or orange brightened up many collections.  These eye-catching hues modernized some classic pieces, and were a welcome relief from the neutrals that we’ve been getting used to.

Drapey Sillohuettes

Ports 1961, Halston, Cynthia Steffe

Remember on Project Runway when everyone accused Rami of only being able to drape?  WELL WHO’S LAUGHING NOW?  (Probably not so much Rami because all of these designers took his MO, but still…)  Spring is going to be all about a flowy, romantic shape that both skims and hugs curves.

Belts!  Belts!  Belts!

Luca Luca, Reem Acra, Altuzarra

Cinched waists are a flattering look for everyone, and designers this season are finally catching on!  Belts were everywhere, and I am LOVING how they can easily transform a look (and accentuate feminine curves).

’70s Fever

Rodarte, Badgley Mischka, Tracy Reese

Designers for this year’s Spring/Summer collections loved them some ’70s.  The mix of funky prints and vintage cuts (high waists, wrap dresses) made pieces pop and bring to mind something other than disco (finally).  From the kind of Earth Mama look that was reminiscent of ’70s folk goddesses Carly Simon (personal hero!) and Joni Mitchell to the more structured Faye Dunaway ’70s power-woman style, these designers had us feelin’ groovy.

Bare Bellies

Richard Chai, Doo.Ri, Y-3

And I’m not just talking crop tops (though those were definitely on every runway this week)! It was sheer, sheer everywhere, with a whole lotta belly mixed in, which means this writer will be spending her winter in the gym.  Beautiful clothes, but blerg.

If you want to catch up on all the best (and worst!) looks from Fashion Week, get full coverage from over 100 shows on Stylelist.com.