Spring/Summer 2012 Trends

        Both on and off the runway, the aquatic theme has been one of the most prominent trends of the 2012 spring/summer season. Serving as an updated version of the traditional floral themes seen in past spring/summer seasons, this year’s overarching aquatic theme can be broken down into two main categories: tropical florals, and surf/sportswear. From Proenza Schouler’s Hawaiian-inspired floral dresses and Mary Katrantzou’s underwater seascapes, to Dries Van Noten’s mixed florals and Ksubi’s monochromatic ensembles, tropical prints are a season staple. Many designers have also incorporated head-to-toe florals and monochromatic prints into their looks, another one of the season’s main trends.

      Designers have drawn inspiration from aquatics and tropical nature, not only in terms of patterns and prints, but also in regards to silhouettes, fabrics and textures. Versace’s Neoprene biker jackets, Michael Kors’ fitted scuba dresses and Stella McCartney’s scalloped slip dresses are reminiscent of traditional aquatic gear, and reflect the season’s “surf couture” style. Alexander Wang was one of the pioneers of the season’s sportswear trend, with blue botanical prints, fish-scale textures, zipper-front parachute dresses, and brightly colored polo shirts. Wang’s fascination with motocross and NASCAR racing proved to be a huge influence in his spring/summer collection. Isabel Marant’s high top Willow sneakers also keep in line with the season’s style and give an elegant twist to the sportswear trend.

       

       The revival of the peplum, which was popular in the ’80s, has proven to be one of the season’s most popular silhouettes. Everyone from Jason Wu and Vera Wang to Rodarte and Thakoon have incorporated the feminine silhouette into their collections. The peplum also featured prominently on the red carpet at the 2012 Met Gala. Actresses like Elizabeth Banks in Mary Katrantzou, January Jones in Versace, and Emma Roberts in Escada all sported the trend, a sure sign that peplum will continue to be popular in the coming fall/winter season.

      Among the various accessory trends—metallic accents, chunky cuffs, white pointed heels, statement earrings —tribal accents have been the most popular street style and runway trend of the season. Tribal inspired clutches, shoes and jewelry figured heavily in the spring/summer collections at Burberry Prorsum, Bottega Veneta and Proenza Schouler. Many designers have incorporated organic textures like raffia, straw, beads and wood into their designs to enhance and accentuate their tribal looks.