TrendWatch February 2009

Check out some new Spring arrivals online!

As winter sales start to wind down, Spring merchandise is hitting the online stores with some fabulous new looks, and you just need to remember these keywords...

CONTRAST
Black IS the new black, but it's how you combine it that makes this look fresh. Black & white has never been bigger - from Drew Barrymore wearing Giambattista Valli on The Tonight Show, to Jennifer Connelly in a beautiful soft black & white polka dot blouse. This look is daytime, evening or both!

COLOUR
Pop goes the Spring Pallette! Don't just think pink, think tropical fruit punch.. lemon, lime, raspberry, orange, watermelon..

NEUTRAL
A return to soft neutral shades has never been so evident as on the latest Red Carpet events. This is also the best transition look you will find this season - since contrast is key, you can simply update a few key pieces, and pair them with a black pencil skirt & opaque tights, or wear a neutral little item jacket with skinny black pants. Neutral should be one of your new favourite non-colors!

VIOLET
Purple continues to dominate the colour palette, as seen on the Spring/Summer 2009 runways - violet was featured in collections by Moschino, Allberta Ferretti, Marni, Gucci, Max Mara. and that current red carpet favourite, Balmain.

STATEMENT SHOES
This trend is not going anywhere! Platforms, pumps & gladiator sandals continue to morph into some truly amazing pieces. The only way to wear this is sublte - let your shoe do the talking. If you want elaborate footwear, stick to a simple shift dress, or skinny pant & boyfriend blazer.