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Only two words can describe the 2009 spring and summer collections: recession chic. As wallets shrink, style does not wane, and the trends of the this year prove to be rich in texture, color, and print.

Undoubtedly, the biggest trend of the year is bright colors. Hues in the color of the rainbow are adding a happy kick to the otherwise drab outlook of the world. Neon shades circa the 1980s, colour-blocking on attire, and layering various shades of the same colour are being seen on the catwalks and sidewalks alike. Using a spectrum of shades in blues, greens, oranges, and pinks bring out the best in the season. In both solids and patterns, these styles are versatile, unique, and high-fashion.

Asymmetrical cuts in dresses and tops are being seen on celebrities like Victoria Beckam for both day and night looks. A little black dress with an off-shoulder cut or a one-sleeved t-shirt for day both are fun and tasteful looks for most body types. Deep V-backs, if done tastefully, can leave a lasting impression.

There's a notable amount of embellishment and dcor being seen on designs this year, as well. Bows, fringe, feathers, and ruffles are being inserted into the collections to create a variety of looks. Rhinestones, brooches, and embellished designs are playing up otherwise plain-looking clothing to turn an outfit into a dazzling ensemble. Mixed with materials like leather and suede, embellished clothing make a loud statement.

A somewhat controversial piece in many spring and summer collections are jumpsuits. Both in the shorts and pants variety, they have been seen in major designers' runway shows and on red carpets. In materials and colours ranging from silk to cotton, plain black to printed, many women have formed a love-hate relationship with these pieces, as they are unflattering to many figures and hard to pull off.

Sky-high stilettos, as always, are the fashion-forward footwear for the upcoming seasons. Designers have been conjuring outside-of-the-box ideas for height, style, and material. Over-the-top details like chains, studs, zippers, and off-balance heels are bringing artistic and architectural principles into shoe design, creating some of the most off-the-wall and attention-grabbing high heels ever seen. While not easy to walk in, comfort and safety are just a small price to pay for fashion.

Accessories are the go-to trick for solving every outfit dilemma for this season. Scarves, skinny belts, animal-skin and print, gold and metallic jewelry, Oriental-influenced pieces, and oversized earrings and cocktail rings are all the rage this season. Playing up last year's fashions by adding bright and textured accessories allow you to stay up-to-date with this season's look while still pinching pennies.

For the must-haves this season, make sure your closet is stocked with these essentials:

* Python-print clutch

* Bright-colored or uniquely-decorated 4-inch stilettos

* Colour-blocked dresse

* Black One-Shoulder Dress

* Huge Gold Hoop Earrings

* Jade-Green Cocktail Ring

* Colorful Scarves in Rainbow Colours

* Any clothing item or accessory with a bright, busy pattern.

Learn more about this author, Jamie LB.
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