Trending into spring and summer 2011

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Being the fashion student that I am, I've learned some very useful things.

I have learned how a trend cycles itself. I know that doesn't sound interesting at all, however, it is, slightly. Essentially a trend is a general direction in which something is developing or changing. Whether it is referring to stocks or fashion, it's the development of something. But how do trends work?

No, it's not some silly mathematical calculation that will calculate the life of a trend. We, the mass population, decide how long a trend lasts and what the trends are. A trend usually has a starting point and a direction, for example: last fall we saw an enormous influence from the 50s, and now the influence is forming into a 70s summer influence, bellbottoms included.

So if we don't want these trends, why do they keep reappearing?

Because we let them!

I won't complain about the life cycles of trends, but I will explain what to expect for spring and summer this year. Simply remember, before purchasing the most expensive version of these trends, we do not know how long these trends will last. Don't splurge now and yell at me later.

For SS11, you can be sure to expect:

Pinks and corals: These are eye-catching colours that can sometimes become rather irritating. If worn in moderation and done so properly, pink or coral can perk up any downer. Consider wearing these bright colours with greys and beiges. It goes great with a range of skin tones and will make you feel extremely cheerful.

The 70s: They're back! This is a great decade because it's so interchangeable within the fashion realm. Whether you're an ethereal hippie with white and pastels or a mother with a passion for dancing, platform shoes and intense prints, just remember that trends change based upon how YOU wear them. You choose how you want to be seen and if you let yourself go overboard there is potential that you may be mocked.

With these two simple trends, I should warn you there are many liberties. The 70s, I have heard, was a great time and everybody was free to "fly." People expressed themselves and spread their wings. They created fashion and began what is now a well-known look — face it, how many of us have been hippies for Halloween?

Take a look at some runway shows or some inspirations from great movies like Almost Famous and find something you like that suits you. You'll feel comfortable and trendy, and it'll be a great launching point for your new spring and summer 2011 style.