Best of 2010: Trends

Pre-Fall 2011 Coverage: The Best Collections

"The Outsiders"

With the inspiration of L.L Bean and the great outdoors, the label United Bamboo pulled out a trendy and eco-friendly collection. Wearable, fashionable and do-able, these clothes are a must-have for any wardrobe. I love the long john pants, sturdy boots, curtain-like flower patterns, and relaxed denim. In a nutshell, United is simple, trendy and oh so comfortable. You could do anything in these looks: shop, go out for lunch, hike up a mountain, and sleep:)

"You're a Firework"

Reem Acra's designs shine once again in her pre-fall collection. Bursts of bright gold, deep blues and greens, and touches of black glamour were showcased. A long time favorite of celebs for the red-carpet and major award shows, Reem Acra is a master at creating the "it factor". Signature palettes, ethnic flare and her overall star-power keep clients and fashion lovers like myself coming back for more.

"Amazing Grace"

Monique Lhuillier has been worn by anyone who is anyone, to every red-carpet, gala, award show you name it. Known for dramatic styles, delicate details, and overall glamorous meets girly effects, Monique's pre-fall collection is no exception. The best part about these runway looks was the colors used. Deep green, hot pink, ombre hues, and pure white are just some examples. Pulled back hair allowed the wonderful designs to shine. But perhaps the most skilled thing about Lhuillier is that her gowns bring out the best in every women who dons them. Sparkle, lace, volume and sweet regalness is Monique in a nutshell. Amazing collection.

"That 70's Show"

Diane Von Furstenberg is one of my favorite designers because she designs for stylish, confident, career seeking women. Her latest collection took us back to the glory days of the 70's, the era in which she thrived. The best thing about the looks was the solid rich hues of burgundy, teal and mustard yellow. It was almost yummy. DVF always creates simple chic separates that woman of all ages and walks of life can pull off. Boots, sunnies, sturdy bags, wrap details, comfortable textures and overall understated sexiness describe this pre-fall showcase. Well done.

"Stunning Staples"

Donna Karan likes her collections to have sustainability and wear-ability not just on the runway but on the sidewalk as well. A master when it comes to layering, Donna's pre-fall collection showcased wardrobe staples that every fashionable woman should have in her closet. Using an earthy color palette and free-flowing designs, Karan's clothing makes any body type look divine. No wonder she's been around for so long.

"Detail Diva"

Rachel Roy pulled out another great collection that was filled with whimsy and perfectly stated drama. Her color choices are always spot on as I just loved the celery green and pumpkin oranges hues throughout. Feathers, a hot trend right now on the runways, also made an appearance. But Roy used the material in a unique way. I especially loved the ankle grazing black feather skirt as seen above. Fun jewelry, comfortable fabrics, feather sandals, and cool styles completed this confident collection.

"Verafied"

I can go on and on about how much I adore Vera Wang as both a person and as an established designer. She is a household name and she creates beautiful clothing with her signature dark glamorous touch every time. This time around her pre-fall collection had a school girl feel about it with short hemlines, pleated skirts, knee high stockings, capes and fun details. Of course it was finished off with bling, feathers, and girly accents as expected. Vera, unlike some designers, has a distinct voice that keeps everyone wanting more.

"Naturally Cool"

Ports 1961 is one of the hippest brands out there currently. They start trends with their effortlessly chic styles and high profile clientele. For their latest collection, brown was the standout hue. Not usually a fan of such a color, my opinion was changed. The grayish brown used was refreshing and gave a 70's boho vibe to the looks. Leggings, muted hues, slinky dresses, feather details, simple hair/makeup, and warm weather accessories completed a fabulous collection.

"Queen for the Day"

Besides being a legendary designer and one of the most well-respected names in the business, Oscar de la Renta also is a hard worker. I don't know how he does it but he manages to pull out a huge collection of beautiful clothing every season. And even though this is only pre-fall, it feels like another grand affair. I love the overall styling of this collection. It's very Paris high society chic but still youthful and modern. Every look is new and exciting while still being a part of a cohesive unit. Bright pops of color, expensive fabrics, dark lips, sleek hair, and bows/frills are just some of the amazing elements of Oscar's standout collection.

"Black Swan"

It seems like J. Mendel has taken cue from Natalie Portman's latest movie masterpiece as his clothing has a sense of dark romanticism about them. A skilled genius when it comes to designing gowns, Mendel never ceases to amaze me. I literally would die to wear any one of the pieces in this newest collection. They look so soft and simply glamorous. And the sick strappy heels just puts it over the top. Love!

"Dark Luxury"

Burberry Prorsum is such an iconic brand and its always easy to recognize and appreciate their signature pieces. So of course trenches, sky high boots, and leather were seen in their pre-fall collection. But there were also some twists as well. Dip dye furs, new rich hues (dark pea green, deep burgundy, oyster grey etc.). I loved the simple straight hair with the expensive looks. And most of all I liked the dresses and coats. Burberry continues to reign on.

"Opulent Sixties"

Although not a huge fan of Chanel, I must say that Karl's latest collection caught my interest. I loved the rich fabrics and overall regalness of the clothing. It was like 60's mod meets 5th avenue. High huge top buns, traditional tweeds and satin, elaborate chunky jewelry, sandals, and accessories galore graced this runway.

Recent Obsession: "Black Swan"

I am soo excited for Natalie Portman's new movie, "Black Swan"! The film portrays a twist on the classic ballet and provides insight into the mysterious and highly competitive world of ballet. I cannot wait to see this, not only because I am a dancer and absolutely love the classical ballet, but because the film's fashion is breathtaking. With whimsically dark designs by Rodarte and a cast of Oscar worthy actors, this movie is sure to be a huge hit.

(collage created using polyvore.com)

Top Trend Setters of 2010

"Vintage Queen"- One half of the sister stylista duo, Ashley Olsen has a wardrobe one would kill for. She always manages to look pulled together underneath all her fabulous vintage and designer duds. Unlike Mary-Kate (who has great style as well), Ashley is much more sophisticated when taking fashion risks.

"Simple Sophisticate"- Already one of my Style Stars, Carey Mulligan is fast on the rise in both her acting career and her red carpet style. She never over complicates what she wears which is something I admire. A fan of Prada and Chanel, Carey keeps it fashion forward and tasteful at the same time.

"True Beauty"- Although Anne works with Rachel Zoe on her fabulous red carpet looks, she makes the clothing all her own. Her lovely personality shines through in whatever she is wearing. I like how she changes her style up and can pull off every look with grace. She has truly blossomed into a style star this year.

"Mix Master"- Rihanna has been a trend setter ever since she hit the big time several years ago. I love that she is unique in her style choices, always surprising us with interesting (in a good way) ensembles. With a voice and charisma like hers, Rihanna can do no wrong in my eyes. I only wish I could pull off her looks half as well as she does!

"Flirty and Flawless"- Zoe Saldana has been on my radar ever since I saw the movie "Centerstage". She is undeniably beautiful and carries that through in her outfits. Her looks are always perfectly styled and they never look the same. She tends to wear stunning leg-revealing frocks, and with her dancer physique, who can blame her?

"City Chic"- Olivia Palermo may not be my favorite reality TV star, but I can't deny that she has amazing fashion sense. Being a NYC socialite and friend of many a designer, Olivia manages to mix high and low priced fashion to create a chic and unique look. Now the face of the clothing retailer, Mango, she continues to be one of my favorite stylistas to watch. Even if I really can't stand her haha.

"Hopeless Romantic"- Keira Knightly is on the top of my list when it comes to actresses. I have watched and loved every movie that she has been in. And like most of the characters she plays, Keira's style is very romantic and whimsical. She tends to wear cutting edge designs that most stars can't pull off. With her British ease and captivating smile, Kiera is a breathe of fresh air on any red carpet.

"Cool Contemporary"- Kate Bosworth is not much known for her acting as she is for her great red carpet and street style. She wears everything from upcoming designers to inexpensive clothing from TopShop. I look forward to seeing what she wears next and I aspire to style my own ensembles as she does. New and always exciting, Kate is one to watch.

"Ladylike"- Eva Mendes may be known for her curves and high profile movie roles, but I notice her for her demure lustworthy wardrobe. She doesn't try to be sexy because she already knows that she is. So by wearing such classy designs as Oscar de la Renta and Dior, Eva leaves a little mystery. I am a huge fan of her full skirted, floral and floor length ballgown looks. She seems to appreciate fashion and brings refinement to an industry that is lacking in that department.

"Shining Star"- Emma Roberts, niece of Julia Roberts, has finally come out of her aunt's shadow with her top notch fashion looks. She wears a lot of sparkly dresses, free flowing gowns and, on her days off, has a edgier street sense of style. Unlike some teenage stars (cough cough Taylor Momsen), Emma is always pulled together. She dresses her age but also makes mature styling choices.

(photos: people.com)