by Yve Goodwin

Created on: March 16, 2009   Last Updated: April 03, 2009

The Spring/Summer Color Trends of 2009 paint a picture of calm elegance and vibrant boldness. Neutral soft, creamy whites combine with electric hues to create eye-popping silhouettes. Soft blushing pink-beiges, neutral beiges, and various tones of slate blue also create clean, delicate backgrounds. The bold and exotic colours to look out for this season include; orange, mango, tangerine, fuchsia, rusty red, magenta, and shocking pink. Aqua blues, vibrant greens, jade, bright sky blue, and deep royal blue reign supreme; while citron green re-creates a fresh and clean 80s vibe. The monochromatic colour scheme creates trendy styles this season in slate grey, black, navy, light beigey taupe, cream and white neutrals. They'll combine with this season's key colors of lemon yellow, tangerine, orange and antique gold to create even more eye-catching palettes.

This 2009 Spring/Summer season is all about modesty; when combined with colours that compliment the female silhouette, a softer lady-like appeal is created. Soft sorbet tones, and combinations of brights paired with soft sorbet colors and large blocks of bright colors, will grace the female form in boyfriend style jackets, and strong shoulder flattering tops; two key trends this season.

Accentuate your positive features by wearing geometrical patterns reminiscent of classic 80s styles. Sporting solid coloured tops with graphic patterned bottoms, and topped off with a waist-slimming belts will show off a sleek and sexy hour-glass silhouette. The strong, yet gentille lady is further revealed by another key element this season; emphasis of the shoulder-line. Popular sleeve styles include voluminous puff, batwing, one-shoulder, full length, cap and kimono sleeves that are draped in soft fabrics and textures (e.g. chiffon, ruffles, feathers etc,).

Long flowy dresses and tops made from soft fabrics such as silk, and chiffon present a kinder and gentler alternative to the minimalist approach. In contrast, the retro chic, asymmetrical one-shoulder dress in short to floor length, maxi gown styles (e.g. Michelle Obama's Inauguration Ball Gown), and Goddess draped designs (with or without textured, embellished hems of feathers, fringe embroidery etc.) represent bold statement pieces of timeless elegance.

Safari inspired designs are highlighted by African and Colonial India influences that cross the globe; with delicate fabrics accented with intricately patterned wooden beads, and designed in animal/block prints. Thigh-high

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