In a previous article we went into the color trends for spring/summer 2010. Now it is time to explore the dominant trends in style for this year’s spring/summer season.

Shorts

Show some leg! Hotpants or boy shorts are the lower body essentials for this season, as long as they are really, really short. If you prefer a more vintage look, try high-waisted hotpants. To complete your look, opt for a slightly oversized blazer or loose top. Do I need to mention that heels are of the essence? If your legs still need some work, you can combine your shorts with high socks.

Loose pants

By now, skinny jeans or leggings have become safe bets. Why not decide in favor of more comfortable pants with a relaxed fit? Loose-fitting pants are the standard for this season!

High splits

Whenever there is a chance to dress up, go for a high-split dress in a light fabric for that summery feeling. Mid-thigh splits are a no-go this season, so don’t be afraid to show some skin.  Killer heels and a quality tan complete your look.

Over the knee

For socks and boots, anything between knee- and thigh-high will do. Just make sure they suit your leg shape and body type. If you want, you can even make your socks your eye catcher by making use of color and texture. Regarding the high boots, wear them with style in a classy outfit. You don’t want to risk looking like a floozy.

Denim

Yes, this spring/summer you can get away with an all-denim outfit or wear denim as part of a multi-layered outfit e.g. under oversized blazers or leather jackets. For pants, you can recycle an old denim pair from your wardrobe by ripping them or sewing on patches.

Masculine elements

After the boyfriend sweaters, we now have boy shorts, blazers and vests for that carefree look.  Select garments that are slightly oversized and roll up the sleeves. Very feminine accessories are a nice counterpart and balance things out.

Sportswear and jumpsuits

Sportswear is the new streetwear for this springtime.  Again, this links up with the masculine elements trend. Sporty garments give your look a rough edge and cool factor. To keep it elegant, contrast the sportiness (shorts, v-necks, sweatpants) with high heels. Jumpsuits in neutral colors can make excellent basics for almost any look, if you have got the figure to pull it off.

Military look

Army jackets are still really in, but the military look is taken a bit more to the extreme this season. Think ancient warrior elements taken into the future. This can go from subtle metal plating to robotic sci-fi elements.

Tribal and safari

Just imagine yourself as an explorer in the wilderness: safari suits in khaki, beige, browns and greens. This soberness is complemented by colorful patterns and animal prints on featherweight delicate fabrics.

Ruffles

To contrast the whole masculine elements trend going on, complete your wardrobe with some very romantic, girly garments. Nothing like ruffles to give you that romantic and glamorous look.

Sheer layers

A different way to achieve the romantic look is the draping of different layers of delicate see-through fabrics. It also adds some raciness without being too explicit.

Lingerie as outerwear

From sheer fabric to lingerie, a smooth transition. This spring and summer it is okay to expose some of that long hidden lingerie. This can go from stay-ups and suspenders to subtle negligees. I know this is not for everyone, but it really can be worn in a very elegant way.

Hair bows

The ultimate accessory. But mind, you don’t want to look like an Easter egg. Also, I would not wear it with a too girly, cute outfit, unless you want to look like a Lolita. To avoid a too cheap or trashy look, select good quality fabrics.  Combine your hair bow with a headscarf for a more retro look.

Alyssa