Going mid-calf

The return of the Lady-like fashion trend influenced by the 50′s and 60′s brings many elements to women’s wear, which translates to many options when it comes to stepping out in style.  Among them are the cateye glasses, kitten heels, and elegant dresses.  Add the midi skirt to the list.

The three quarter length skirt returns and is worn both as a flared-out version that flows in the wind, and a fitted one that exhibits all the right curves.

Kitten Heels

One of the most controversial women’s style trends for 2011 when it comes to accessories is Kitten heels.  Brought on from the resurgence of the 50′s and 60′s lady-like elegance, this style could otherwise be considered to stump a pair of lovely legs.  But being that fashion repeats itself, so does this particular footwear option.

Kitten heels are small, thin heels of 2 inches or less and curved inward from the back.   They are a cross between flat shoes and stilettos.  The 2011 trend is specifically matched to the 50′s and 60′s retro return.  The best way to wear them is with a pointed toe; kept simple, in leather, neutral tones and if you’re going for more versatility to include a modern look keep details to a minimum.

Look to the East

Runways were influenced by the Orient for Spring 2011 women’s wear.  Luxurious silk fabrics were styled in Chinese and Japanese prints, and even wrapped in a kimono-like fashion.  Among the designers who showed fine, eastern examples were Dries Van Noten, Haider Ackermann, Vera Wang and Philosophy’s Alberta Ferretti.

Wearing the pants

Every so often women’s wear will borrow from the fellas and sport a masculine look while maintaining femininity.  Spring 2011 will see women wearing the pants again.  From tailored trousers to a high-waist and relaxed legs pants strutted down the runways with offerings from designers such as Derek Lam and Michael Kors.

The Crop Top for Spring/Summer 2011

2009 was the last time Crop Tops were featured on the runways.  It has returned for this year and wearing it means exposing the mid section in an elegant and tasteful new way.  The look can be as subtle as small cut away pieces that links two garments, a sheer look providing a screen effect, or a more bold look with the top as a separate item showing more skin.

Return of the Jumpsuit

A surprising style trend for Spring 2011 is the playsuit, or jumpsuit.  Playsuits can be basic, fitted, loose & flowing, sporty or dressy.  For evening go for bling with shiny ornamentation and luxurious fabrics, or the tailored look which can double as office attire for daytime.

Boxing Bags

With the new year in full force already, as far as women’s fashion goes much of the focus is on being lady-like.  This is the look that the elegant 50′s and 60′s inspired.  The perfect accessory to compliment this particular fashion trend is the Box Bag.  This small, dainty purse in the shape of a box is updated for Spring 2011 with ornamentation such as chains, buckles and tassels.  For the ultimate box bag, appointed in the finest leather consider designer Proenza SChouler at www.proenzaschouler.com.