Spring '12 Report

Emma LaPalermo
Alpha Chi Omega

Although it has been months since New York Fashion Week showed off designers’ looks for spring 2012, it’s almost time for us to start wearing them. That is, if the weather makes up its mind by March. Straight from Style.com, my fashion bible when it comes to reporting every trend of the season, I’ve rounded up the top five trends for spring and how to wear them when the time comes.

1. Tasteful Midriff: If I do say so myself, I feel pretty ahead of the trends because I’ve actually been sporting this look since last spring. Unlike the '90s, this style is about showing off your upper torso, right above the waist, which is actually quite flattering. Wearing a high-waisted skirt with a fitted crop top is one way to perfect this look.

2. Roaring '20s: Maybe not the most applicable trend to West LaLa, but I think it’s such a refreshing look. Instead of full-on flapper, sleek and sequin dresses and art deco accents are the key to nailing this style. Thin, strappy sandals, long pearls, and pulled back hair complete the “flapper” look without looking out of place.

3. Sporty Spice: This may be the first time I’ve been ok with gym clothes anywhere besides the gym, but I’ve seen this style done by a ton of designers and I’m not mad about it (Disclaimer: sweatshirts are still sweatshirts, as are sneakers). Designers have taken sporty garments, like track pants and zip-ups, and transformed them with funky fabrics, body-con dresses, and paired everything with heels.

4. By the Sea: Just in time for spring break, ocean-y fabrics and deep-sea inspired garments are popping up everywhere. This is a fun, kitschy look to try on the beach this season with a fishing net cover-up or seashell topped sandals.

5. Pastels: Soft, pale colors are taking over in place of neons this spring, and I’ve already seen this trend extend from shoes, to pants, to nail polish. Even though I’m still obsessed with my pink jeans, I’ll be pairing them with a pale pink blouse or light yellow jacket this spring to mix it up every once and a while.

Style on for spring, Boilermakers.