Summer 2011 Trends: Anatomy of a season

You say disco? I say boho!

You probably heard already - the 70s are back! Glam, sequins, metallic fabrics...

When thinking of the 70s, I picture a natural look: semi-tamed long hair, crochet, ethnical accessories… The perfect boho look, or as many refer to it - the Music Festival look. The perfect inspiration? “Penny Lane”, as played by Kate Hudson in Almost Famous.

As for our Spring-Summer Collection, silhouettes are voluptuous and fluid. Femininity reveals itself in the self-assurance women exuded in this revolution era. You will notice the waists are marked by an elastic or a waistband. For example, the Bondi Beach Dress, as featured below in Blueberry, was inspired by this decade. Comfort at its best!

Key Pieces:

·                     Jumpsuit: short or long. I personally opt for the short strapless version, with a 

         maximum volume and a waist marked with an elastic or belt. Choose a classic solid 

         colour (fantastic in black) or a soft floral print.

·                     Maxi dresses and skirts: they are no newcomers and it’s a pleasure to see them come back this summer. Their length must reach the floor. Pair them with large belts worn at the waist. 

Check out this refreshing take on the maxi dress by Kali Clothing (pictured above) http://etsy.me/kEjGKr

·                     Wide leg high waisted pants: The skinny is not disappearing, but will you not welcome this trend that puts comfort first ;) Prioritize pale colours. White is a must!


Wear it with a colourful fitted and tucked in top. Orange paired with white makes for a refreshing effect. Add a contrasting belt and a platform sandal to elongate the leg (you want to avoid looking shorter, which will happen when wearing flat shoes with wide pants).


This cut does not fit small women well, who should replace it with a slightly flared and more flattering cut. To respect this look, there must be certain ampleness on the thigh. Avoid pants which are too fitted on the upper part of the leg, and end in a bell shape.

·                     Ethnical accessories: Large earrings, large beaded necklaces, large rings, printed scarves. For girls with short hair, I would even dare a mini or half turban. For an accessible 70s look, superpose different beaded necklaces.

·                     And how could I not mention this season’s accessory… The feather earring. Select an extra long one, and accentuate the look by wearing it on one side. Make it yourself, or choose one made by a local designer like Ecocessories. The feathers the designer, Jessica Hill, uses come from an organic farm and are collected after the birds molt.


Check out the feather earrings that appear above: Wyandotte Pinwheel http://bit.ly/jDU4fx

·                     A large shoulder bag, which you can choose in your favorite material: faux suede with fringe, or universally tinted cotton: beige, khaki or with thin stripes, etc.

·                     The perfect vintage touch to complete your outfit? Crochet. As an accessory. Or find a piece that uses it as a detail or opt for the complete look as a dress, sleeveless vest, etc.

·                     As for sandals, think platforms. And wooden soles are a must! I especially like the ones of a dark brown (almost red) tint, which go perfectly with cognac leather accessories, that are still apropos.


To conclude, whether you are more Bianca Jagger, Jane Birkin or Penny Lane, each of you will find what you are looking for this season! What’s important is to follow the golden rule: Go for what suits your own style!


And you? What trend got your attention this summer?