SPRING/SUMMER 2009

Two of the founders of the online fashion market pretaportobello.com, twins Lisette and Victoria Cooper give us an update on what's hot for Spring/Summer 2009.

For those keen to shake off the winter blues, rainbow brights are high up on the trendometer this Spring/Summer. A vibrant palette that over exaggerates colours is a must-have, either colour blocking or bold prints, or even colour-clashing (think hot pink with bright red). Try “synthetic” boldness; grass green, acid limes, corals, bubble gum pink and sky blue. If you're colour-shy, add a splash of colour with bright accessories, or limit brights to your bottom half.

An opposite and equal trend to counter balance the colour, is of course, nudes. Embrace the mood of innocence and romance with neutral barely-there shades in nude, beige, ecru and soft greys. Think sophisticated and classic to work this look. Neutrals are great mixer pieces too, so why not opt for a neutral dress with bold bright shoes, or a neon belt?

If you want something a little more edgy, go for glossy metallics: golds, gunmetal and bronze – perfect to mix with brights and to add sparkle to a night out.

Other trends this season are fringing, be it with a western emphasis – suede fringed cowgirl jacket with washed-out denim jeans – or Navajo with a tan fringed bag, or fringed sandals, or even fringing on evening dresses. Sportswear luxe is also a very strong look this season. It's all about striking a balance between oversized, soft and floaty pieces with tailoring, so team tight trousers or a pencil skirt with a floaty shirt.

Must-haves this S/S have to be harem pants, jumpsuits, ruffled blouses, asymmetric (one-shouldered) dresses and softly tailored blazers. For accessories, big statement necklaces and oversized cuffs, obi belts, flat gladiator sandals and fringed bags are all ones to watch.

One of the strongest messages for S/S 09 is that it is a season of hope and of fun, about mixing different colours, fabrics and layers together, and experimenting with your own style and individuality. The great thing about trends is that they do tend to come around again. So in these tough economic times, try to work with what you've already got, be creative and plan around your existing wardrobe.

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