SPRING/SUMMER 2011 TOP 10 TRENDS: #2 THE SHIRT

As the season’s roll forward, we continue to see an emphasis on getting back to the basics of dressing. For Spring, designers continue to perfect the basics by focusing on updating key items.   The biggest trend to come from this movement is the re-introduction of the woven shirt.  We saw everything from feminine to masculine, minimalist, utilitarian and retro styles.  Fashion is becoming much simpler and basics like the woven shirt are items to keep in the wardrobe for a lifetime.  As fashion continues to par down, a movement is on the rise of buying lifelong items that can be re-styled with each new season.  The shirt is on the top of our list for that exact reason.

Boyfriend styles from the Spring 2011 runways of Dries Van Noten, Paul Smith, Ralph Lauren, Gabriele Colangelo, Twenty8Twelve, Organic by John Patrick, Brioni and Maison Martin Margiela

THE BOYFRIEND SHIRT made the biggest comeback this season shown in a variety of styles from oversized to extra-long.  Dries Van Noten made the biggest statement with his oversized white wovens worn with boxy elongated blazers and long and languid trousers.  The feeling of this look is relaxed and comfortable and when combined with Spring’s relaxed trouser, a perfect daily wardrobe.  I’ve been a fan of this style of shirt forever and they are a staple in my closet as they can easily be styled in different variations depending on the mood of the season.  This season, look for a white oversized version for a “borrowed from the boyfriend” look.  If you want an inexpensive route to this trend, hit up the men’s section in the Gap or J Crew and I’m sure there are plenty XXL’s left on the racks.

Bow-tie Blouses from the Spring 2011 runways of Lyn Devon, Jason Wu, YSL, Loewe, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Ungaro, Mary Katrantzou and Antonio Berardi

In opposition from the boyfriend, THE BOW BLOUSE returned to go along with Spring’s feminine mood.  Styles seen used many different fabrications from transparency to silks and cottons.  Charming printed versions were paired with cropped trousers for a playful look while dressier satins were paired with high-waisted full leg trousers for a nod to the 1970’s.  Beaded and laced versions also made an appearance with Bohemian and 1950’s looks.  Blouses were mostly styled with trousers and shorts for a masculine/feminine pairing.  When buying this trend, focus on a bright palette for daywear and saturated 70’s tones for nighttime. The most fashion forward look is transparency, so go bare if you dare!

Buttoned-up shirt styles from the Spring 2011 runways of Cushnie et Ochs, Suno, Davidelfin, Jenny kayne, Walter, Simone Rocha, Preen and Jonathan Saunders

The biggest trend in the shirt category this season is THE BUTTONED-UP SHIRT.  With the return to minimalism and utility, it is no surprise that this monastic look was on the mind of many designer’s this Spring.  This style is classic with a twist, allowing for a range of stylistic approaches.  Most styles seen were in woven fabrications, however designers also experimented with silks and transparency for added interest.  Cropped versions were seen at Jonathan Saunders while Simone Rocha interpreted the trend with cut-outs and modern silhouettes.  This look is definitely the most modern of all the classifications which is why it will be the most popular at retail within the contemporary and junior level.  Not for everyone, only the fashion forward will oblige as the look can be taken to be a bit sterile by some. However, the great thing about this shirt is that it can easily transform into a sexier version with the adjustment of a few buttons.  Already seen from the fashion set on the streets of NYC and Paris, this is one trend to get on fast before it becomes the uniform of the trendy set.

Tunics from the Spring 2011 runways of CNC Costume National, Burberry Prorsum, Mathew Ames, Celine, Albino, Derek Lam and Osman

Celine’s forward moving minimalism has brought clean lines and A-line shapes to the forefront of fashion.  THE TUNIC supports this movement in its simplicity and function.  For Spring, we see traditional styles updated with modern details such as zippers at Celine and Burberry, while Costume National updated the tunic in leather.  Worn with shorts or long and languid trousers, this look channels 1970’s Bohemian Glamour.   Look for styles to remain simplistic in nature allowing for some of Spring’s best accessories to take center stage.  Tunics are longer in nature and lengths are seen from the hip to above the knee, starting a new Spring trend of wearing dresses over pants.  The tunic is for the Chic set, you won’t see this trend worn by the hip.  Junior retailers will focus on the tunic shape in dresses while contemporary designers will update with alternative fabrications and details.

Check back on Friday for Spring 2011’s #1 trend….