What you can expect in 2012
With 2011 reflections come 2012 resolutions, and what better way to look forward (literally) to the year ahead than to let you in on what we think is going to be huge? Beauty, fashion and even style icons – this is almost as good as Oprah’s Favourite Things.
10) Bright Colours
A contrast to the minimalistic palette of 2010, neon promises to reign supreme come springtime 2011 – meaning that it’s time to head to your local thrift store and buy that over-the-top windbreaker you otherwise wouldn’t have justified. Suddenly, the phrase “not with a fizzle, but with a bang” has a whole new meaning.
9) Slicked Back
Potentially cringe-worthy, we know, but hear us out. With Spring/Summer 2011 models taking the runways by storm with slick, sleek-looking hair, it’s only fair we assume that a messy disheveled ‘do is less appropriate than something finely polished – at least for formal affairs. (Breath a sigh of relief: that messy bun on a Saturday afternoon isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.)
8) Mini Backbacks
Again? We know. But when we told you that the 1990s had plans to stick around, we weren’t leading you astray. Stores like Urban Outfitters and H&M have been stocking up on the likes of these retro throwbacks for sometime, while thrift and vintage shops have had trouble keeping new arrivals in stock – especially recently. Just be grateful fashion’s taking after My So-Called Life and not the “stuffed animal on your back” look of 1998.
7) Slip-Ons
Thanks to TOMS or our affinity for laziness, slip-on sneakers look like the answer to casual outings come snow’s departure – especially in bright colours and floral prints that have cemented themselves as springtime’s calling card.
6) Desert Aesthetic
Every year, we give our annual nod to either the military or safari-inspired look, and springtime 2011 is absolutely no different. Browns, taupe, blacks and neutrals are making up much of the “transitional” pallet, but instead of linen ensembles and loud prints (though some do exist), fashion’s taking the geometric approach: think less Sex and the City 2 and more desert-in-a-1960s-living-room.
5) Pleated Trousers
We saw them this year, we’ll see them next: high-waisted pleated ankle trousers are continuing to channel nearly three decades with their rise, cut and controversial fit. Suddenly those McDonalds’ uniform pants seem borderline wearable.
4) Emma Watson
It may have been her pixie cut that won her attention at the close of 2010, but having cemented herself as a bona fide icon, 2011 only promises a whole heap of Emma Watson. And with the premiere of the last portion of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows out this summer, you can expect her to garner even more love for her take on mid-year trends.
3) The 70s
Don’t worry, grunge and post-punk fans – your aesthetic isn’t going anywhere. But if you’ve been pining for bright colours, bold patterns and a wardrobe that mimics That 70s Show, you’re officially in luck. Spring and summer look to embody the kitsch of the disco era, bringing with it retro prints, beads, patterned knee socks and if you’re daring, even pigtails.
2) Socks
Socks and shoes staged a comeback in spring 2011, but with next season’s looks being worn alongside ankle, knee and thigh-high socks, the barefoot phenomenon of years past have seemingly come to a close.
1) Skins
There is a very high possibility that the US version of Skins will be exceedingly terrible – but that doesn’t mean the fashion will be. From what we’ve seen, the UK knock-off will rival the likes of Gossip Girl aesthetic-wise, and since the show’s already more buzzed about than most Brooklyn bands, you know they’ll step it up style-wise. Odds of Skins-inspired trends? Higher than the show’s controversial existence.
