Striving4Zen

THE NEW VOLUME: The words “fluid," “collapsed," “swingy” and “billowy” sum this trend up. Fall 06’s biggest trend will morph into a lighter, softer version for spring. Expect to see bigger proportions mostly in the form of gauzy, light fabrics and soft jersey. Swingy, loose fitting skirts and gowns, roomy tunics, blousy tops, and slouchy shorts were prevalent, often cinched with a high riding belt to define the shape of the body. Who did it: Thakoon, DKNY, Marc Jacobs
THE DRESS: It’s here to stay – coming in every style imaginable. The sack, the wrap, the halter, the babydoll, the floor length gown, the mini shift, the t-shirt, the tunic and the jumper were all there. Rather than tight, designers kept things light, and most often stuck with an a-line shape. Who did it: DVF, Sass & Bide, Luca Luca
LIGHTER LAYERS: Rather than skintight and revealing, designers conveyed sexy with fabrics, layering multiple sheer and light fabrics together. Gauzy knits, tulle, sheer organza, mesh, eyelet, translucent prints and subtle appliques were used to create movement and texture. Who did it: Brian Reyes, Sari Gueron, Vera Wang
SUBDUED PALETTE: A large percentage of NY designers stuck with black, white, grays and neutrals, often injecting rich yet subdued pop colors such as deep blue or mustard yellow and subdued metallics. The usual springtime pastels were few and far between. Who did it: Marc by Marc Jacobs, Karen Walker, Jill Stuart

Keep an eye out for these items and looks:Trench coat, trapeze coat, slouchy shorts, sheer tops, high waists, short hemlines