Women's fashion trends in the new year

When the newly refurbished multicolored ball hit the top of the Times Square Tower proclaiming that it was finally the year 2009, the fashion industry’s gears had already been turning, ready to pump out the new year’s hottest trends. Over the past several months, the world’s biggest fashion houses have been prepping their spring and summer 2009 lines, perfecting the wearable art of the runway and guiding the everyday consumer to fashionista bliss.

The Classically Sweet 50s Look
Quite apparent as a major trend for this spring is the resurgence
of 1950s style.  The look centers around adorable clothes in fresh colors, perfect for springtime. Necklines tend to be slightly higher but not beyond that of a crewneck, and skirts are usually A-line with some fullness. Patterns such as barbershop stripes, gingham and large polka dots are key to completing the retro image. Fashion houses such as Marc Jacobs have been cooking up sugary-sweet clothing concoctions just in time for spring, but more reasonable vendors such as Urban Outfitters are catering to the ultra-happy trend.

Big, Bold Color
Bright colors are always big for spring and summer. Adding a splash of a well-placed shade is an easy way to take an outfit to the next level. For 2009, canary yellow is the sizzling color to be seen in. This bright hue is perfect for everything from accessories to evening wear.

Embellished Handbags and Shoes
They say that good accessories can salvage any outfit, and this spring’s embellished handbags and shoes will bring any ensemble out of a winter rut. Lanvin’s latest fashion exposition showcased heels emblazoned with crystals that In Style magazine quoted as “blurring the line between high-end stiletto and objet d’art.” Even the famed label Prada’s entire spring line of handbags is bedazzled with large emerald cut-shaped rhinestones. Studded boots and heels are also a must for 2009.

Multi-tonal Jewelry
The jewelry trend for spring is mixing different shades of metals. Most popularly represented in multihued bangles, gold, silver and bronze jewelry works together because of its neutral nature. The always chic and well-priced Forever 21 is a good place to track down multi-toned accessories.

Where to get the goods
There are several stylish yet affordable shops in Bloomington where you can track down spring’s biggest trends without breaking the bank. For super sweet 50s-inspired get-ups, check out the ever adorable Cactus Flower at the corner of Kirkwood and Grant. The bottom floor is a trove of candy-colored cardigans and the perfect full-skirted gingham dress. The upstairs is jam-packed with incredible authentic vintage finds, perfect for spring’s new retro look.

For fabulous spring accessories, look to the always chic megastore Urban Outfitters located on Kirkwood, whose Jeffrey Campbell studded heel fits in perfectly with spring’s bedazzled accessories.

Many of Bloomington’s boutiques are carrying unique finds at not-so-steep prices, ready to reinvent any wardrobe just in time for spring.