Spring 2012 Strategy for Style
Spring 2012 is stepping out in the right direction. In a season in which finish and polish is key, all sorts of modernist manners are moving the fashion pendulum forward, while nodding to the modernist architectural movement of the ‘60s. Strategic slices of color splicing and splashes abound, but this time around, designers are also mixing graphic pattern with metallics, counter alternative florals, fringe and even menswear style fabrications. Graphic patterns take a shine with leather and synthetics provided a new edge. From Balenciaga to Proenza Schuler to Marnie and Dries Von Noten, designers have a new strategic vision for spring.
18K White Gold & Blue Sapphire Earrings by Ken Lo
There’s a method to this mad mix of black, white and neutrals, which is playing a key role along with massive mixes of pattern and color, of mood and manners. Playing in both major and minor keys, designers are applying modern technology and couture like embellishment for the season’s mix up. Evening plays along with enveloping cuts from Rick Owens and precisely cut gowns from Calvin Klein.
Accessories go graphic too; with two color mixes replacing last season’s color blocking, bi-color and monotone leathers give a spin to new spectator style handbags and shoes.
Mismatched bangles are stacked, bold cuffs encircle wrists and big hoop and elongated drop earrings add defining drama. Bold geometric rings in sterling silver with precious stones or wood add the final modern movement.
The Elements
24K Gold & Diamond Medium Hoop Earrings by Lika Behar
Shape
Strong shoulders continue to make a major statement on structured jackets and coats, whether rounded or extended. Slim skirts, both long and short, provide the requisite counterpoint. Fringe and pleats heighten the effect. Narrow trousers extend the balancing act.
Colorations
White, black, contrasting neutrals, bi-color and monotone color mixes. Off beat brights – orange, yellow, green along with softened mid-tones – mint, coral, blue. New darks emerge, brown, navy, deep red and cranberry along with touches or orange.
Silver Ribbon Necklace in Bright and Dark Red by Sabido & Basteris
Fabrications
Modern techno fabrications, plastic in transparent or opaque versions, high shine leather, new coated fabrics for special effects.
Patterns
Geometric and modern art prints, slices of bold color, splices of metallic, mixes of stripes and flowers, geometric prints and florals, abstracted scenics, mosaic tile prints.
Details
Decoration adds punch, sequins, beading, fringe, re-embroidery, gradated color and Lucite.
Stainless Steel & Aluminum 2" Drop Earrings by Veto
Jewelry
Bracelets are de rigueur – stacked bangles in sterling silver or resin, cuffs in sterling silver or wood, bold hoop earrings in precious metals, colored aluminum drops with diamonds, bold, sculpted or stone rings add drama and play to the mix.
Handbags
Geometric shaped cut out handle bags, structured clutches, fold over clutches, flat body bags, satchels in bi-color and monotone color, woven leather, color spliced leather and metallic, Lucite and Plexiglas trim, clear plastic top handle bags, totes and satchesl.
Belts
Structured styles from skinny to wide, peplum style belts, double wrap styles in smooth leathers, patent and plastic with simple buckles or geometric shaped styles.
Footwear
Single sole strappy sandals emerge along with platform styles in black, white or boldly colored leather, patent and metallics. Two color and monochromatic spectator style pumps and sandals make a strong statement. Transparency takes a stand in Lucite accented platform sandals and pumps, while clear plastic touches shoe boots, pumps and sandals.
