Spring Ahead!

  Any excuse to go to my favorite store, Neiman Marcus, is a good one. But being invited to a private preview of the Spring/Summer 2012 collections on a chilly winter's night? Perfect!
  The Boston chapter of Fashion Group International sponsored the event along with Neiman Marcus in Natick, Massachusetts.
   I couldn't wait!
  After a magical ride up the escalator which has crystal butterflies hanging down, just out of reach, I headed for the Chanel boutique to see what was new. The cape I saw last time I was there was gone (*sigh*) but there was plenty that practically made me weep it was so beautiful.
  But on to the main attraction...S/S 2012.
  About 40 fellow fashionistas gathered in the Couture Salon on the second floor where they also had wine tasting by Greenvale Winery, a local vineyard in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. April Riccio, Public Relations Director of the store gave us a fantastic sneak peek at what we were about to see. The Ten Trends that were seen on the runways and that we'll see coming into the store.
   After April's countdown and a well produced video featuring clips from some of the Fashion Week runway shows, one thing was clear. Spring is in full bloom! Flowers decorated dresses, shoes, handbags. The LBD has some competition...the LWD. The Little White Dress was shown in a 50's style with a full skirt and made with lace.
   "Lady Chic" is back (one of my favorite trends) and it was reflected in the demure dresses and pencil skirts paired with pretty tops and structured clutches in every size.
   Prints were seen on everything...and mixed with everything. A fashion trend not all of us are willing to try, but if you're a fearless fashionista now is the time to show off.
  Color blocking with bright colors is a trend you can use in an entire outfit or just add a pop of color with a handbag or a fab pair of shoes.
   Step back in time to the 20's, 30's, 40's, 50's or the 60's. Clothes from those eras are back and are so on trend and just so much fun to revisit.
   There is definitely something for everyone this season. Whether you take on an entire trend or just add pieces to your wardrobe, you are going to love the selection! Designers outdid themselves this season, making it exciting and giving us some much needed color in an otherwise drab winter season.
  Bring on Spring!