Posts filed under 'Trendscape'

Fashion Trend 2009 Picks: Omiru’s Top 5 Summer 2009 Fashion Trends

When you think Fashion Trends for 2009, what do you think?  We dug through our Fashion Week archives, and we saw One Shoulder Dresses, Sheer Fabrics, Butterflies, Ripped Jeans, The Color Orange, Ruffles and Bows, Neon Colors, Metallics, Exotic Prints, Asymmetry, Fringe, Statement Accessories…just to name a few.  But out of this melting pot of styles, what are the key trends—and what are the trends to pass up?  Omiru has answers for you.  We sorted through this season’s trends to bring you Omiru’s Fashion Trend 2009 picks, summer edition:

The Color Gold
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Wide Bangles | $16.85 at ASOS

Sure, diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but it’s hard to go wrong with Gold.  Metallics are back in full force for Summer 2009, and Gold’s warmth radiated from the runways.  Wear Gold with similarly warm hues—reds, oranges, and yellows work wonders paired with Gold.  If you’re feeling bold, try a cocktail dress (or a pretty tank, with or without a fitted blazer) in Gold.  Or if you’re not quite ready for Gold to take the spotlight, dip your toes into the trend (literally) with a pair of Gold colored sandals or espadrilles.  Or pile on a set of gold bracelets to dress up a simple cocktail dress.

The Blazer
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White Blazer | $150 at Banana Republic

Blazers represent the the tailored theme that arose from our fashion trend 2009 picks.  Whether you choose a style that’s cropped or man-tailored, we encourage you to make blazers a central part of your summer wardrobe.  They’re great at adding a tailored touch to an otherwise casual outfit.  After all, when you slip on a blazer, you feel instantly pulled together.  So pluck the blazers from your work wardrobe and wear them on the weekend, just paired with different clothes.  Nothing says “simple and sexy” better than a fitted black blazer over a white tee and jeans.

Ruffle Details
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Soft Tee Ruffle Top | $39.50 at J Crew

Ruffles aren’t just for girls—real women can wear ruffles too!  It’s all in how you wear them.  While girls can get away with frilly dresses with ruffles all over, grown women would do better with sophisticated, strategically placed ruffles.  Style tip?  A line of ruffles adds visual volume.  Women with a small bust can visually enhance what they have with a line of ruffles at the bustline.

White Jeans

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White Straight Leg Jeans | $59.50 at Gap

White Jeans are as summery as a picnic in the park.  Though, they probably don’t mix—beware of (grass) stains on these sophisticated jeans.  White jeans are a welcome contrast to the standard issue dark blue straight leg jean—not to mention that they’re a little dressier and a tad more sophisticated.  But the beauty is that they pair with just about everything that works with blue jeans.  So instead of reaching for your well-worn pair of designer blue jeans, try something a bit different and slip on a pair of white jeans instead.

Exotic Prints
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Ikat Halter Dress | $225 at J Crew

From Ikat prints to paisley to Madras plaid, exotic prints are the perfect ingredient to add some spice to your summer wardrobe.  Choose warm, bright colors to add to the playfulness of your exotic prints.  We love a head-to-toe print, like this Ikat halter dress by J Crew, but if you’re just feeling out the exotic print trend, you could try a simple blouse paired with a classic cardigan.

Tell us, what Summer 2009 fashion trends will you be wearing?  And which trends will you be steering clear of?  Share your style with us in the comments!

12 comments June 9th, 2009

You Said: Yes to Gladiator Sandals

you-said-yes-to-gladiator-sandals_060609

petrova-gladiator-sandals_060509We asked: Would you wear Gladiator Sandals?

You said:  Yes to Gladiator Sandals (barely), with a 52% to 48% vote.

Style tip? Gladiator sandals - you either love them or you hate them.  If you love them, you’ve probably already embraced how they add a funky edge to casual outfits–from a tank and jeans to a summer sundress.  If you’re not on the Gladiator sandal bandwagon, we encourage you to try these strappy shoes–at least, in the store.  We’d recommend nontraditional styles that don’t scream Ancient Rome–like these thoroughly modern heeled Gladiator sandals from Mossimo.

Next question: Distressed jeans are a huge trend for Summer 2009.  But while ripped up jeans work for the uber-trendy, they’re really not for every occasion (or everyone).  Tell us, would you wear Ripped Up Jeans?   Cast your vote on the sidebar!

Pictured: Mossimo Petrova Gladiator Sandals | $29.99 at Target

2 comments June 8th, 2009

Womens Summer Shoes: Omiru’s Guide to Wearable Summer 2009 Shoe Trends

Whether you’re going out on the town, exploring local backroads, or just lounging around with friends and family, you’re going to want a variety of stylish summer shoes for every occasion.  But what kinds of shoes should you be considering to add to your collection, beyond your closet full of flip flops, classic canvas sneakers, and summery espadrilles?  Omiru’s guide to womens summer shoes dissects this summer’s shoewear trends and shows you what shoes you’ll want to wear (or at least be aware of) this summer:

Ballet Flats
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Jeffrey Campbell Pearl Flat | $109.95 at Nordstrom

In a word, ballet flats are classic.  They mix form and function, and they’re a wonderful shoe for women on the go.  Grab a pair of ballet flats in a bright color to give a modern twist on the sophisticated classic.  Or opt for a metallic ballet flat that will help ground an outfit full of bright colors and patterns.  For more inspiration, you may also want to check out Omiru’s shopping guide for beautiful ballet flats.

Jelly Shoes
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Tod’s Jelly Thong Sandal | $117 (sale, originally $175) at Neiman Marcus

Jelly shoes have come a long way since the 1980s.  Today’s Jelly shoes take the best of the plastic summer shoe you remember and add a real dose of style.  Take Tod’s Jelly sandals, for example.  We’re loving the sleek foot harness and the thoughtful tassel detailing.  And you really can’t beat that bright orange color—the perfect shade for womens summer shoes.

Caged Shoes
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Jada Cage Stiletto | $29.80 at Forever 21

For the adventurous, caged shoes add an edge to even the plainest of outfits.  They’re inspired by Stefano Pilati’s caged ankle boots for YSL’s runway collection.  They’re certainly runway material, but these summer shoes are more difficult to pull off in Real Life.  Plus, we wouldn’t recommend them on super sunny days, as they could leave a distinctive tanline on your feet.  If you dare, try these cage shoes with a outfit that keeps you covered up, such as a simple dress.  If you’re wearing shoes like these, we’d recommend keeping the rest of your outfit relatively conservative. 

Driving Mocs

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Catalina Metallic Leather Driving Mocs | $99.99 (sale, originally $140) at J Crew

We’re huge fans of driving mocs, both for women and for men.  Driving mocs were meant, originally, for driving—hence the rubberized soles that help you grip the pedals.  But they work for so much more.  Pair your driving mocs with a simple Capri pant and blouse.  Or let them provide a classic foundation to a casual pair of jeans and a cute top.

Gladiator Sandals
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Merona Edwina Gladiator Sandal | $24.99 at Target

Gladiator Sandals have divided the fashion community—you either love them or you hate them. Gladiator Sandals make a distinctive shoe style statement for those who dare to wear them.  We like to see them paired with simple, casual clothes to give summer basics a bit of an edge.  For those of you who are on the fence about Gladiators, you may want to try Merona’s version of an elegant Gladiator sandal.  It’s a combo summer shoe – so you get the height (and comfort) of a wedge sandal with the style of a Gladiator sandal.

Tell us, what Summer 2009 shoe trends will you be wearing?  And which shoe trends will you be steering clear of?  Share your style with us in the comments!

9 comments June 4th, 2009

You Said: Yes to Velvet

You Said: Yes to Velvet

Urban Renewal Velvet BlazerWe asked: Would you wear Velvet?

You said:  Yes to Velvet, with a close 55%-45% vote.

Style tip? Sure, Velvet may be one of the most classic cold weather fabrics, but it’s not for everyone.  Velvet is what’s known as a "pile" fabric, with fibers that extend upward.  While this "pile" makes velvet somewhat warmer to wear, its thickness, combined with its natural sheen, makes it somewhat difficult to wear.  Our favorite way to wear velvet is on a blazer.  But mix things up and try a blazer in a different silhouette.  Try a long, hip-length style over a cocktail dress (as pictured) or a blouse and high waisted pants. Or try a cropped style, which works great with a high-waisted skirt…during the summer, a long, flowy sundress.

Next question: Patent leather is a classic fabric for shoes and other accessories.  But what do you think?   Tell us, would you wear Patent Leather?  Cast your vote on the sidebar!

Pictured:  Urban Renewal Velvet Blazer | $58 at Urban Outfitters.

2 comments December 8th, 2008

Trend Alert: Chunky Knit Half Sleeve Sweaters

There’s nothing quite like a chunky knit sweater to keep you warm in style.  But while we love chunky knits, we don’t actually want to look chunky wearing them.  How do you wear a thick knit without looking chunky?  Minimize the bulk of your heavy knit sweater by showing a bit of skin with a partial sleeve.  Here’s our favorite chunky knit half sleeve sweaters, at all price points:

Our $ Picks

Merona Drop Shoulder Shawl Collar Vest
Merona Drop Shoulder Shawl Collar Vest | $24.99 at Target

Pointelle Swing Cardigan
Pointelle Swing Cardigan | $32.90 at Heritage 1981

AE White Out Sweater
AE White Out Sweater | $49.50 at American Eagle

Our $$ Picks

Placed Cable Turtleneck Sweater
Placed Cable Turtleneck Sweater | $59 at Gap

Pleated Sleeve Cardigan
Pleated Sleeve Cardigan | $68 at Gap

Our $$$ Picks
Shawl Collar Top
Shawl Collar Top | $110 at Banana Republic

Shawl Collar Sweater Jacket
Shawl Collar Sweater Jacket | $130 at Banana Republic

Alpaca Kennedi Jacket
Alpaca Kennedi Jacket | $260 at J Crew

2 comments December 2nd, 2008

Trend Alert: Sophisticated Ruffles

Who says that you can’t have your cake and eat it too?  Ruffles are decidedly feminine, but they don’t have to look girly.  Their youthful spirit can be tempered with a dash of adult tailoring for a look that’s less about frills and romance and more about playful sophistication.

Our $ Picks:

Issac Mizrahi Ruffle Neck Blouse
Issac Mizrahi Ruffle Neck Blouse | $22.90 at Target
Frame your lovely face with Issac Mizrahi’s dramatic ruffle neck blouse.  

Ruffle Sandals
Ruffle Sandals | $29.50 at Gap
Add a ladylike touch to your sandals with gorgeous purple ruffles.

Frill Hem Spot Skirt
Frill Hem Spot Skirt | $42 (approx) at Topshop
Ruffles add a kicky touch to this playful miniskirt.

Ruffle Neck Shift Dress
Ruffle Neck Shift Dress | $42.99 (sale) at Gap
For the most figure flattering effect, wear a wide belt with this ruffle neck shift dress to help define your figure.

Our $$ Pick:

Dotted Victoria Ruffle Cami
Dotted Victoria Ruffle Cami | $98 at J Crew
This versatile ruffled camisole will pair perfectly under a crisp suit jacket - or with a loud patterned skirt.

Our $$$ Picks:
Sulden Wool 3-Button Jacket
Sulden Wool 3-Button Jacket | $199 at Ann Taylor
Perfectly tailored and ruffled to boot, this jacket gives you the best of both worlds.

Ruffle Collar Wool Coat
Ruffle Collar Wool Coat | $280 (sale) at Kenneth Cole
Make a powerful style statement with this dramatic ruffle collared coat.

2 comments November 21st, 2008

You Said: Yes to Tie Neck Blouses

Omiru Poll Result: Yes to Tie Neck Blouses

Fitted Tie Neck ShirtWe asked: Would you wear Tie-Neck Blouses?

You said:  Yes to Tie-Neck Blouses, which were voted in 59% to 41%.

Style tip? We’re a big fan of tie-neck blouses–the bow tie turns a masculine button-down shirt into something flirtily feminine.  Wear it to work to give a feminine touch to a tailored suit.   On the weekend, you can make this workwear staple more casual with a pair of wide-leg trouser jeans.

Next question: Fair Isle Sweaters, characterized by multi-color knitted patterns, are a winter (or at least a ski lodge) staple for both men and women.  But what do you think?   Tell us, would you wear a Fair Isle Sweater?  Cast your vote on the sidebar!

Pictured:  Fitted Tie-Neck Shirt | $25.99 (sale) at Gap.

4 comments November 17th, 2008

Fall/Winter 2008’s Best Boots Under $100

No piece of footwear epitomizes daytime chic quite like the boot.  And Fall/Winter 2008 has welcomed a number of sophisticated boot trends: ankle boots, buckled boots, fur lined boots, cuffed boots, and slouch boots, to name a few.  We’ve rounded up our favorite picks for each of these boot trends - each one priced well under $100.

Ankle Boots
Tate Oxford Bootie
Tate Oxford Bootie | $29.99 at Payless
Oxfords lend a tailored twist to the boot silhouette of the season: booties.  

Buckled Boots
Mossimo Kiley Boots
Mossimo Kiley Boots | $29.99 at Target
Buckles add a tough girl vibe to these chic grey boots.  Love the ever-so-slight slouch to them–and the very wearable 2.5" heel.

Faux Fur Lined Boots
American Eagle Mallory Boot
American Eagle Mallory Boot | $44.99 at Payless
Looking for a cold-weather boot that’s as cute as it is chic?  Found it.  The fur lining provides instant chic, while the pom poms give these boots an air of lightness.

Cuffed Boots
Zahara Sweater Cuff Jersey Lined Rain Boots
Zahara Sweater Cuff Jersey Lined Rain Boots | $29.99 at Target
Keep your feet nice and cozy on the rainiest of days with a pair of sweater cuffed rainboots.

Slouchy Boots
Slouch Boot
Slouch Boot | $79.99 at Cathy Jean
Be one with the inevitable slouch when you slip on these sophisticated boots.  Perfect for layering under jeans - or for pairing with a chic sweaterdress.

19 comments November 11th, 2008

You Said: No to Bubble Dresses

You Said: No to Bubble Dresses

Rendez-Vous by Paul & Joe Sister Stendhal DressWe asked: Would you wear Bubble Dresses?

You said:  No to Bubble Dresses, which were outvoted 57% to 43%.

Style tip? We know–"figure flattering" is not the first thing that comes to mind when you hear Bubble Dresses.  But they can flatter your figure if you choose the right dress.  Look for a Bubble Dress with an ever-so-slight bubble at the hem (too thick of a bubble silhouette is tough to wear, even for runway models), and belt the dress to reign in the volume.  Slip on a pair of heels, and you’ll be ready to take on whatever the day (or evening) has in store for you.  

Next question: We love the look of the tie-neck blouse, but we wonder if real people are actually wearing it.   Tell us, would you wear a Tie Neck Blouse?  Cast your vote on the sidebar!

Pictured:  Rendez-Vous by Paul & Joe Sister Stendhal Dress | $118 at Urban Outfitters.

November 10th, 2008

You Said: No to Over the Knee Boots

You Said: No to Over the Knee Boots

Over the Knee BootWe asked: Would you wear Over the Knee Boots?

You said:  No to Over the Knee Boots, which got only 31% of the vote.

Style tip? You’re right that Over the Knee Boots are a fashion challenge (and really not for everyone)–but they’re oh-so-sexy when done right.  How to wear them?  With a minidress, so that a bit of leg shows between the skirt hem and the top of your boot, and an extra shot of confidence.  

Next question: We recently wrote about How to Wear a Bubble Dress, but it seems that you’re still on the fence about this style.   Tell us, would you wear a Bubble Dress?  Cast your vote on the sidebar!

Pictured:  Over the Knee Boots | $67.50 at Cathy Jean.

4 comments November 3rd, 2008

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