* Asian Influences - Kimono sleeves, cherry blossom prints, flower appliques and obi belts were seen on more than a few runways. Pamella Roland's take on it was gorgeous, as was BCBG AND Hervé Léger - both by Max Azria (when a theme works, stick with it). It's a pretty trend that stops just short of chopsticks stuck in hair buns. Come Spring, don't let it get costume-y.
* Gingham - Not typically my favorite print but when done in something other than black and white, I can dig it. DVF's very 60's, bright blue top and shorts gingham ensemble was super cute and fresh. Her collection also featured bright floral prints with a little peek of gingham here and there, which was a much nicer effect, more subtle. Either way, I'll be skipping this trend altogether.
* Military / Safari - I'm always down for a military trend. Marc Jacobs used shiny buttons, epaulettes, web belts and oversized patch pockets to emphasize the trend. But what I really loved the most about his show was the beauty look for his model army: they wore no makeup. Of course the models are gorgeous to start with, but I appreciated the no-makeup look that actually uses no makeup, as opposed to a "no makeup" look that takes hours to achieve. Safari? Meh. Ralph Lauren used the most heinous shade of khaki for pants, blouses and suits, sometimes paired with various shades of neon satin jackets and tops. I'm sure Joan Collins loved it. That being said, there were a few pieces I really enjoyed -- like the four tulle gowns at the end. But srsly, where am I wearing a tulle gown? I always look forward to what RL sends down the runway -- his Fall/Winter 2014 collection was GORGEOUS! But this time around? Not so much.
* Scalloped Hems - Edges of skirts, dresses, pants and shorts look that much more special when scalloped. Just like note cards. Joie's white cotton eyelet dress is an instant classic and will work for many warm weather seasons to come. Cynthia Rowley, always a fave for her spirited creativity and youthful zest for life, showed cropped pants with one subtle scallop - much more wearable. Generally, the look is a little precious so ONE great piece will be all you need.
* Fringe - Many designers used fringe for movement and texture but some were more slick, while others more carefree or romantic. Proenza Schouler's fringe bottom dresses gave the illusion the fabric was slowly unraveling to reveal more thigh - very sexy. Jay Godfrey's fringy, suede (?) poncho was cool and very boho-chic (Geez, am I tired of that term or what? It's just there isn't another good way to say it) - very Almost Famous. Thakoon embellished various pieces with random spots of contrast fringe that almost look like a growing fungus - very creepy. Adam Lippes' use of fringe was furry and hairy on a pair of glorified spa slippers - very ugly.
* Florals - Big, bright, delicate, lacy (and any combo therein) and in various textures, florals were ev-er-y-where. Michael Kors covered sheer tulle skirts in a shit ton of 3-D flowers and I loved every inch of it. Oscar de la Renta's collection featured flowers on a majority of pieces, the embroidered coat being a favorite of mine. Finally, not known for understated looks, Desigual's collection was a riot of flowers in bold mixed prints, loud colors and giant flower crowns (I'm forever a fan of cranial accessories).
So, what's your favorite trend for Spring/Summer 2015? What's that you say? Oh, you're still trying to prepare for Fall 2014? Me too. Here's a quick tip: Say no to Ugg, say yes to Sorel.
