Hi all!  After a few lovely weeks off, I’m ready to take on the new year, fashion-wise!  I’ve identified twelve trends that will be hot this year; have a look over the list, and make a resolution to try a few of them!

1. 

   Photo: Contributed - (Photo: Rhys Albrecht - rhysalbrecht.com)
   Patterned Jeans: Last year it was all about the colored jean, and coming into 2012 its all about the patterned pant. Snakeskin, leopard and polka dots are showing up south of the boarder. Surprisingly versatile, try substituting these for your skinny jeans, and wear to anywhere and with anything.
2. Pastels: Bright colors ruled the runways last year, and they are still coming back strong this spring summer. Try wearing pastels head to toe or mixing them by color blocking. Several hues will be hot this year, but my personal favorite is the gorgeous mint green.
3. The Envelope Clutch: The new everyday bag is a take on the evening clutch; cut larger than a normal clutch, it is the perfect shape to hold your iPad and everyday essentials while offering a fresh feel to your casual outfit.
4. The Short Suit: The short suit will be my new uniform. I’ll be wearing it to the office with a button up, high bun, and flats, and out on the town with heels and a breezy blouse. The short suit offers endless options by wearing the separates together or apart.
5. The High-Low Hem: Otherwise called the mullet skirt, the high-low hem is all party with its flirty and sexy feel while still be modest. It’s the perfect skirt to wear now with tights and a blazer, and later with a tank and strappy sandals.
6. Big Prints: Big bold prints from head to toe are owning the runways, especially those featuring animals, florals and ikat. Look for a fresh take on the floral trend by finding prints that are botanical with a painted feel.
7. Metallics: Metallics are the new neutral! As a flashy hue, pick up pieces in classic shapes and incorporate them into your everyday look.
8. Sheer: Sheer chiffon is Spring’s hottest fabric. Pair bright colors or neutrals underneath for the most up-to-the-minute look - the trick is to be utterly sexy while still being all covered up.
9. Slipper loafer: The loafer was the “it” shoe in 2011, and is still going strong. It is quickly replacing the ballet flat as the go-to flat shoe, and should be worn with everything. The new take on the loafer is a slipper style, like the most stylish Italian playboy would wear.
10. Statement earrings: Arm parties and neck candy - the big trend in 2011 was layering tons of accessories. This year, change it up by letting your ears do the talking . Look for big beautiful statement earrings to pair with lots of bracelets.
11. World prints: Imagine you’ve traveled the world, and picked up a piece in every country you visited. By mixing these eclectic prints and cuts together in interesting ways, you can create a look that is exotic, challenging and very high-fashion.
12. Peplum: This great shape will definitely be seen around this year. Flattering on all women, it’s come back into fashion as part of the tailored Mad Men look that has become new again. The cut speaks for itself so keep the accessories and prints to a minimum.