Top Tip Fashion Trends for Spring 2009

Richard Nicoll was a prime example of a esigner using colour blocking. However, many other fashion designers have injected statement colour into Spring 2009 clothes by using bright bold hues. While a few other creators played to the neutral palette.

Left - The pink way, striking colour blocking with blushing pink beige, rose to hot pink. All three pant variations are by Richard Nicoll. Note how we have two looks working here - the mixing of fondant tones in large colour blocks, and also the mixing of vibrant brights. Observe also the important boyfriend blazer style jacket.

Colour blocking with strong brights of hot pinks, orange, mango, tangerine and lime are popular. You will also see other brights such as lapis, Yves Klein blue, Santorini blue, lemon yellow, lime, orange and aqua jade tones. These garments can be worn alone or blocked together with the enthusiasm of the Dutch designer Mondrian.

In conclusion, expect bright colours that pop, shock and electrify to cheer up dull days. Mix and match bold colours in the latest silhouettes to add zest and a new tang to your existing wardrobe.

Black and white has always been a winning colour scheme, and this year it combines animal prints with Mondrian style colour blocking. In particular look for monochrome effects based on zebra or giraffe prints with stripes and spots. The recent Spring 2009 Chanel Couture, show by Karl Lagerfeld, was an endless stream of white, and then black and white ensembles The high street has paid homage to the monochrome scheme as a foil for those who will never adopt neon bright colours. The monochrome look also translates well into the nautical / yachting / maritime themes which designers celebrate every year. This black and white fashion look is classic, and easy to develop on a budget, or by adapting existing wardrobe items.

All three pant variations above are by Richard Nicoll. Wide legs, or narrow pants mean each silhouette can be equally fashionable on the right body shape. As usual, fashion is accommodating every purse. Some trousers may have more edge than others, but whether a wide, or narrow leg pant, 2009 is the ultimate year to wear the women's trouser style that suits you most. For many this will be the pair of previously unworn wide pants already hanging in their closet, especially so if they are already in a strong colour. One trouser fashion to steer clear of is the nappy style pant.