The black and white colors were dominating the Spring/Summer 2013 catwalks but the brights were also offered in some collections. Among patterns and prints the stripes were favored by designers but there also were colorful graphic prints and patchwork. Shapes and silhouettes are very different. There are items that feature loose fit and also those that feature ruffles. Oriental style contributed to structured dresses and outfits while the suits became one of the must-haves of the season.

Monochromatic

It’s all black and white for this Spring. Even prints and patterns come in black and white, namely the omnipresent stripes, polka dot, houndstooth, and checkers. There are many other abstract designer prints in black and white which add more detail to the look. The classic monochrome combination is worn in suits, top and pant/skirt ensembles, blazers and even shoes.

In case you like prints and want to add color to your look go for designs of Mary Katrantzou, Peter Pilotto, and Holly Fulton. Other colorful options include the many patchwork style outfits from brands like Fendi, Rodarte, Proenza Schouler and others.

Metallics

Metallics are everywhere this Spring. There are silver and gold metallic foil shoes, clutches and even clothing items like skirts, jackets and dresses as seen at Burberry Prorsum fashion show. Metallic panels and shiny fabrics also enhance the outfits of such designers as Diane von Furstenberg and Christian Dior.

Other shiny finishes were also spotted at Mary Katrantzou, Alexander McQueen, and Marchesa shows. Shiny satin was used in many collections as well. At Calvin Klein the suits were featured in champagne satin while in collection by Erdem it was teamed with lace panels.

Sheer Fabrics

Sheer fabrics and paneling were seen all over the runways during Spring 2013 Fashion Weeks. At Christopher Kane there were sheer fabric overlays while at Emilio Pucci the sheer garments were expertly combined with opaque ones.

The sheer overlaid skirt or hemline are perfect for rocking this trend. Though designers also offer items that feature patterns created using solid and sheer panels.

Ruffles

Ruffles were another reccuring trend on the runways. Balenciaga and Givenchy went for assymetrical ruffles that decorated the dresses while Gucci showed ruffles teamed with streamline silhouettes which made a nice contrast in shapes.

Ruffles can be tough to pull off but the key is to not overdo. Team ruffles with items that feature clean lines and simpler shapes. Since these particular ruffles are quite dramatic they don’t require too many accessories.

Oriental Style

Oriental style as seen at Emilio Pucci, Prada and other shows was translated into short kimono-like dresses with floral and other Oriental motifs. Hermes created an amazing colorful collection with some Oriental motifs accessorized with bright shoes and statement accessories.

Structured dresses and mixed prints make complex outfits so be sure to keep your accessories minimal when putting together outfits in this style.

Suits

Suit is a must-have of the season. Whether you need a strict one for the office or a bright one for the outings you can choose from the ones Saint Laurent, Christian Dior, Mary Katrantzou, Jonathan Saunders, and many other brands demonstrated on the catwalk.

While some designers chose to focus solely on their suits, others went further to complete them with tops and accessories. Saint Laurent showed strict men’s style suits combined with intricate blouses and dramatic bows.

Bermuda Shorts

Bermuda shorts will also make it to fashionistas’ wardrobes this Spring as they were featured in collections by such designers as Alexander Wang, Chloe, DKNY, Rachel Zoe, Rag & Bone and others. Made in solid suit fabrics as well as colorful bright printed ones the bermuda shorts are great alternative to the pants this Spring. Some designers created suits featuring bermuda shorts while others combined them with bright blazers and statement tops.

Other trends include beading, cut outs, bared midriffs, leather, and sportswear style, which you could see at Oscar de la Renta, Cushnie et Ochs, Dolce & Gabbana, Proenza Schouler, and DKNY.