Spring 09' Fashion ... WHAT'S HOT!

Curious what is "in" for Spring 2009? Can't wait to spend a few bucks (Yes, only a few this year ...) on a new spring wardrobe? Check this out:

Runway: Yellow, pink and blue brightened runways around the globe. Even animal prints got a bright update.

Reality: The official "It" color of Spring 2009 is yellow, and it's available in everything from a greenish-yellow hue to schoolbus yellow. Although there are plenty of separates and dresses in this sunny hue, the easiest way to wear bright yellow is to pick it up in bags, and other accessories.
You're better off choosing a bright that flatters your coloring (blues and pinks are often easiest) than just choosing what's hot (like bright yellow).
Don't be tempted to mix the brights with black (too '80s). Pair with white, denim or other brights for the freshest look.

Runway: From abstract geometric prints to sharp graphic shapes, geometry takes center stage this spring.

Reality: Geometric prints work for everyone if you scale the print to your size (smaller women with smaller or more abstract prints, larger frames can carry off the really bold prints). Use graphic prints to spice up your daytime dresses or special occasion looks.

Runway: Strong tribal prints, ethnic shapes and earthy accessories fill the runways with mystique.

Reality: Ethnic prints are a classic, but don't limit your global trends to just prints. Try chunky tribal jewelry, or obi belts. (Google it if you don't know what they are!)

Runway: Designers add drama with one-shoulder stylings and draped fabric.

Reality: The one-shoulder dress is one of the hottest trends of the season, and one that translates well to real life. Ruching and draping are also goddess hallmarks and do a great job of camouflaging problem areas.

Runway: Jumpsuits, skinny pants (still), wide-leg and crops: designers love their pants.

Reality: The crop (also called 7/8 length) pant is one of the newer looks to take the runway, but it's certainly nothing new to women everywhere who have faithfully worn capris in warm weather for years. The softer legs -- on jumpsuits, pants and crops -- give this version of the pant wearability, as long as you keep the volume under control. A great rule is that for maximum flattery the pant should hang in a straight line from your bottom. That way it skims over thighs without clinging.

Helpful? I hope so. I'm a man ... so T-shirts and jeans work every year.
Goodluck spring shopping!

Zach Bedford.