7 Hot Trends for Spring and Summer

Another year is upon us and that can only mean one thing – fashion is changing again, so it’s time once more to take a look at our wardrobes and hit the shops to look for some of the hottest trends. With this in mind, here are seven of the top fashion trends for spring and summer 2012.

Neon

Some people are a little scared of wearing neon, but this year’s designs are actually very classy – think 60′s tailoring in cool, slightly muted neon colours. This is a really interesting trend; however, if you don’t think you can pull of an entire neon outfit, watch out for a few top accessories instead.

Graphics – Art Deco and Floral

There are also some very exciting graphic prints around for spring and summer 2012, and they can be a great way to add a thoroughly modern twist to classically tailored outfits. For example, floral prints are very popular and they’re perfect for the warmer seasons – very girly and pretty. If you’re hoping to achieve a slightly smarter look then you should watch out for the art deco prints that were seen on the 2012 catwalks. They’re sure to be huge.

Athletic Looks

Of course, spring and summer are the seasons when many of us decide to try and get fit, so it’s a good job athletic clothes are in fashion right now. For instance, tracksuits with cutaway mesh panels are one interesting option you might like to explore. Alternatively, casual shorts and t-shirts in some on-trend colours (think neon or pastel) are a really cool option that should see you through the seasons.

Plus, we’ll take any chance we can find to wear our trainers, so this is definitely one trend many people are sure to be excited about.

Stark White

Bright white clothes in floaty, draping material are also on trend this spring and summer. Keep your outfit clean while you’re out and about by covering up with a great women’s coat, perhaps cut in the currently popular 60s style – then dazzle everyone with your white dress later.

Crop Tops

Many people think that crop tops are primarily for teenagers and people who go to the gym a lot, but they’re sure to be very big this spring and summer. They were all over the catwalks in all sorts of styles, from casual neon offerings to smart, matte satin cropped tops with flowing skirts below.

Black and Yellow

One of the top colour trends for this year has to be the black and yellow combination. For instance, a pastel yellow summer dress (very on trend!) teemed with a black women’s coat in the 60s style (also on trend) would be a great look. And don’t worry: you won’t look like a bumble bee!

Go Spotty

Finally, if you’re looking for some cute and interesting patterns to spruce up your wardrobe but don’t fancy the idea of graphic prints, polka dots should be high on your ‘to buy list’. You can combine this trend with some of the other fashions, such as pastel colours, crop tops and 60s’ style, making them really versatile and a definite must-have for spring/summer 2012.

Top Nail Trends of Spring 2012

Time flies so fast and we are now anticipating the coming of the spring season. The runways of Spring and Summer 2012 have us wishing for winter to end sooner. For nails, it’s all about delicate patterns and fun twists to old and classic designs. Here is a little preview of this spring’s nail trends.

TOP NAIL TRENDS OF SPRING 2012

1. Monotone Print Manicures

Monochrome print manicures give off a subtle yet elegant appearance on your nails. The key element in doing this kind of nail art is to just stick to one color and then create various designs with it. If you are already adept at creating beautiful patterns with your dotting tool and nail art brushes, you can definitely do so. However, for beginners, you can opt for stick on patterns that you can place on your nails. The beauty of this type of manicure is that the design options are endless. If you want to stick to  colors, go for soft pinkish nudes and peaches. Remember to top it all off with a top coat to make everything shine.

2. Reverse French Manicures

This nail design became popular during the 30′s and 40′s and now it’s back in full swing. The reverse french manicure or half moon manicure may look intimidating, but trust me, they are quite simple to do. All you have to do is to apply a base color first and then allow it to dry completely. Next, grab a paper reinforcement sticker and place it at the base of your nail (make adjustments if you want a thicker or thinner half moon shape). If the adhesive side is too sticky, try to remove the excess glue by patting it on your skin first. After placing the sticker, apply the next color. Remove the sticker and allow it to dry. Seal everything with a good top coat.

3. Chartreuse Nails

Chartreuse is a color that is really interesting. It’s a greenish yellow (or yellowish green, depending on how you see the color) hue that is definitely described as a perfect spring/summer color since it gives off a warm vibe. Depending on the finish of the polish, this color can vary depending on how the light hits it.

4. Two Toned Colors

If you are into bold and vivid colors, then this retro-ish nail design is made for you. Two toned colors are really simple to do. Replace your regular french nail colors with bold and contrasting shades such as blue and orange, purple and yellow and so on. You will definitely have pretty nails when you go clubbing with your friends.

5. Ombre Manicures

The ombre trend has taken the nail world by storm and many people are now enjoying the gradient effect on their nails. This is done using a really simple procedure. First, apply a base color on your nail. Next, use a make up sponge and dip it on a shade that is lighter or darker (depending on your preference). Stipple it from the mid section of the nail towards the tip. For the next step, you can either use the same shade again or opt for a darker color. Stipple it at the edge of the nail to create a gradient effect. For glamorous nails, you can apply a coat of glitter polish at the tips. Seal it with top coat and you’re all set.

These trends will definitely make you long for the warmer seasons. Better stock up on bright and bubbly shades and you will be in for a smooth sailing spring time.