Trend Spotting: Polka Dots

Why is it that the word 'polka dots' immediately brings to mind Minnie Mouse and people under the age of five?  Far from being juvenile, polka dots are popping up this spring as a sophisticated print for the post-secondary set.  First spotted in British fashion in the late 19th century, the polka-dot has endured the ebb and flow of fads.  According to Wikipedia, when polka dancing was all the rage, there were many other "polka" wearables, including "polka-hats" and "polka-jackets," but only the "polka-dot" fabric pattern remained popular.  Who knew?   This vintage photo from Harper's Bazaar exudes timeless appeal and impossible glamour with a simple dotted sash around the waist.   Meanwhile, Marilyn and Madonna show off the playful, flirtatious side of dots.

As you've likely noticed, the military trend has infiltrated nearly every store from Abercrombie to Zara by now.  Camo print, army green and brass buttons are going to get very old, very fast.  Talk about army fatigue!  That's why I loved this look from Rag & Bone's Spring 2010 runway.  The military-inspired jacket gets a makeover with the help of a loose-fitted white shirt, killer black booties and, perhaps most surprisingly, cropped jogging pants.  I know, not for everyone, but I love that you can rework your lulu's into this very au courant look.  Then, if you're like me and are still feeling the effects of Mini Egg season, you can toss on your trainers and go for a guilt run without having to trade up your trousers.  Or not.  Interestingly, they also make for perfect couch pants.  Real Life Runway Tip:  The little pops of citron are what make this outfit spectacular.  Not quite yellow, not quite green, the off-beat colour makes you look like a fashion risk-taker without having to go all out neon which, let's be honest, doesn't do anyone any favours.  The models at Rag & Bone sported 'Funky Limelight' nailpolish by Essie but you can find similar yellowy-green shades at most drugstores.   Otherwise, this cute mini cross-body bag from Banana Republic (one of the biggest handbag trends this season) will do just the trick.   Check back next week for my latest cross-body bag obsessions.

 

After seasons of hard-core shoulders, grommets and studs, I am thrilled that the fashion world is returning to its softer, more soulful side.  Like the bad dude in the horror movie that refuses to die, I'm sure that the 80's will return with a vengeance one day but for now, it's all about the 70's.  The wrists at Hermes were stacked with neutral bangles that perfectly complemented the models' outfits.   Bangles in natural textures, woods, and tribal motifs are an organically gorgeous way to update your look, especially if you're the strong, subtle type.  And what better time to embrace a more organic look than right now?  I can't remember a time in my life where it's been so cool to be natural.  Reusable shopper?  Check.  Aluminum water bottle?  Check.  Wooden bangles?  Check, check, check.  Okay, so you're not going to save the planet by adopting an eco-chic look but it will certainly keep you at the forefront of fashion.  Real Life Runway Tip:  The general consensus in fashion circles is that being matchy-matchy is a no-no.  This is one of the cases where it actually works brilliantly.  Pull a shade of cream, brown or toffee from your outfit, be it a belt, shoe or shirt, and find bangles that reside in the same colour family for maximum impact. 

 

I've always been a chunky jewellery kind of girl.  I can appreciate dainty and I understand its appeal but in my mind, if you're going to adorn yourself, you might as well go all out and make some sort of a statement.  Perhaps my penchant for massive costume jewels is a way of compensating for my lack of genuine gems?  Well, if Diane von Furstenberg thinks it's cool to get seriously stacked, then I know I must be on the right track.  Bangles and cuffs in a dizzying array of sizes, textures and styles were on display this season.  You can wear them on both wrists or just one, stack them like mad or stick with one large cuff.  Really, you can't go wrong.  Forever 21 has a ridiculous selection but I would dare you to overlook any preconceptions and even check out stores like Ardene or Claire's, stock up on an affordable bunch, and wear them with wild abandon.  Cheap and cheerful never looked so good.  Real Life Runway Tip:  Candy-coloured bangles are certainly all the rage but check back on Monday for a few more stories about some other hot bracelet trends.  Oh yes, your wrists are going to get a lot of summer lovin'. 

Hope you all have a fantastic weekend and thanks for all of your support!

Janette in Stripes

Striped Tee - Forever 21

Skinny Jeans - French Connection Outlet

Pendant Necklace - Thomas Sabo 

They say that stylish women are confident women.  Nothing could be truer than with Janette, whose eclectic style perfectly matches her quirky personality.  She knows fashion like a sports enthusiast knows his hockey stats, (Chanel's 1993 Fall Couture Show anyone??  Nope, didn't think so...), but never takes her look, or herself, too seriously.  You can always tell that Janette has a lot of fun with fashion which is one of the main reasons people find her so undeniably chic.  She can be Parisian prim one day and rocker glam the next, fearlessly bouncing from one style to the other.  I've always loved her carefree approach to fashion and she constantly reminds me how important it is to avoid getting stuck in a fashion rut.  Here she is rocking her stripes with skinny jeans and a conversation-starter necklace.  It's amazing how such a simple look can be so striking.  Catch Janette's design segment on CityLine every week and keep checking back here for more of her fun, fresh looks.