Spring / Summer 2011 Fashion Trends

I love Spring/Summer fashions the most. I am a big fan of rich, vibrant colors that reflect our world and am thrilled at this season's bold choices. We see embellishments on handbags and bracelets, the belt purse/crossover body bag gets a much needed make over, and good news we don't have to choose between the preppy or boho look, but can float between the two depending on our mood. So get ready to add some color to your life and remember fashion is fun so take a chance this season and express yourself!

1. Belt purse/crossover body bag - Belt purses have long been the object of ridicule, but not this season. Designers have taken this once mocked accessory and given it a major fashion overhaul with new designs, materials and various sizing. The crossover body bag has been around for years and from what I've seen in stores and on the runway the overall design, colors and compactness is the perfect travel accessory.


2. Stripes - Nautical inspired horizontal stripes in one solid color or various colors are found in most handbags this season so if a horizontal striped shirt isn't your thing you can still get in on this theme with a beautiful handbag.


3. Bohemian Inspired - In keeping with the bohemian spirit, you can choose from an array of leather bracelets and handbags with such detailing as grommets, eyelets, buckles and top stitching.


4. Long Earrings - are back and more stunning than ever. I have never owned a pair, but maybe it's because I am older and more confident that I now love and can appreciate the elegant and sexy look it achieves by just brushing the shoulder and/or collar bone.


5. Indian Influence - We've seen this trend before but it never seems to go out of style. This season filigree detailing is combined with eye popping colors.


6. Embellished Wrap Bracelets - Colorful fabric is intertwined with gold and silver to create a fun and festive look.


7. Earth Tones - This season we see clutches and handbags made from materials found in nature, including jute and raffia. Also look for metallic accents to accentuate the look.


8. Bright, Block Colors - As we see in clothing we also see these bright block or geometric shaped colors infused together in handbags and jewelry. To pull this style off wear a solid colored top and pant then coordinate your multi-colored block bracelet, earrings and necklace making these accessories your focal point.


9. Cat eye sunglasses - If you love the look of the 50's and 60's here's your chance to capture a little bit by wearing the infamous cat eye sunglasses. Here's to times gone by.


10. Golden Pendants - This look is always in style due to the ability to dress up an outfit or go casual. If you are going for a simple look wear this long necklace with decorative charms over a tank top and chinos, jean jacket optional. Celebrities love this effortless look and will even pair it with a beautifully light scarf. To dress up this look, it's even easier, by choosing a v-neck dress and adding a pair of dangling earrings.