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Top 5: Spring/Summer Fashion Trends for Women 2012

With fashion weeks in full swing the buzz around the world of fashion is at an ultimate high. Here we explore what trends we think are hot for Spring/Summer 2012.

1. Sleek shimmer

Clean and classy silhouettes with a futuristic edge are what makes this trend stand out. Featuring a palette of metallic and hugely eye catching colours this trend may be garish on paper but in style its effortlessly unique and understated. Endorsed by the likes of Lady Gaga and showcased by Paco Rabanne this hot new trend for spring/summer mainly features gold, silver and bronze garments but it even manages to include green, red and blue tones.

To me this trend perfectly suits the electronic qualities that Ibiza possesses; capturing the forever transitioning music scene perfectly with the modern vibe the trend gives out. Wearing a silver pleated skirt to We Love at Space has never seemed so tempting.

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2. Perfectly Pastel

Pastels are a re-occurring feature in summer fashion so it's no great surprise that they are back on the high street again in 2012. However this year sees even paler tones with peppermint green, powder pink, sunflower yellow, crisp coral and frosty blue covering the catwalks.

Feminine and pristine this trend is probably one of the most suited to summer as it looks beautiful combined with subtle ditsy floral prints. So whether you are strolling on the sands of San Antonio bay or partying hard at Ushuaia beach hotel this trend will ensure that you look cool, girly and stylish.

Teamed up with the metallic palette of sleek shimmer you can make a killer outfit which is bang on trend.

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3. Give me a 'P' 'R' 'E' 'P'

50's inspired trends are forever creeping back into fashion bringing the days of Danny Zuko and cheerleading back into the limelight. This year is no stranger to the American prep school style; with crop tops, sports bras and high waist disco trousers screaming out 'Sandy!'.

Sexy wet look leather, plaid prints, midriffs on show, high waist bands and cat-eye sunglasses are just a few elements that make up this trend. Look to Proenza Schouler and Nina Ricci for inspiration; their spring/summer catwalks perfectly captured the innocence of the fifties but managed to bring it into the current day with an essence of modern glamour.

Although the high waist leather pants may be a bit uncomfortable in the summer heat, especially in Ibiza; crop tops and midriffs on show will definitely be a well received trend.

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4. Roaring Twenties

Every year we dig those Maxi dresses out from the back of our wardrobes and feel effortlessly elegant again. As one of my favourite summer items the Maxi dress or midi length dress are so fantastically versatile. You can go from a day time look to an evening outfit with ease by simply changing your footwear from sandals to wedges.

The twenties gave birth to the flapper dress and has since inspired Gatsby Glamour and with stars such as the beautiful Daisy Buchanan making the 1920's style famous it's no surprise that this eras fashion has never been forgotten. Ralph Lauren showcased a beautiful collection of full length shimmering gowns and dropped waists whilst sequins, feathers and tassels were seen from Gucci.

Typically the 1920's style dress sits just below the knee or above the ankle. This season sees this old school trend dabble in several different aspects of spring/summer fashion for 2012. Prints, metallic tones and pastel colours are incorporated into the trend and it is undoubtedly one of the most sultry and sexy styles for summer.

5. Patterns

When do patterns ever go out of fashion? The spring/summer trends of 2012 have an array of patterns on offer and probably one of my favourite selections to date... but only when done right.

Scarf print:

Huge for spring and summer and already taking over high street shops scarf print is a fantastic, quirky and affordable trend to keep on top of. Milan fashion week really went for the scarf print and collections from D&G supported the trend through designs featuring lavish prints, vibrant colours and asymmetrical hemlines. Topshop also have a vast selection of scarf print available from shirts, high waist shorts and skater dresses.

The scarf print is more commonly than not featured on silk or sheer fabric and looks great worn formally. However it also looks great as part of a more casual look as this print is a big enough statement in itself. A definite trend to be brought to Ibiza as it ties in very nicely with the Balearic Islands bohemian and hippy vibe that is very apparent on the White Isle especially in resorts such as Es Cana.

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Tribal prints:

Similarly to last year tribal prints have been showcased during this years fashion weeks but 2012 has taken African inspiration to a new, sexier and more understated level. Of course the animal prints and tribal patterns are as eye catching as ever but this year sees wider lines and more subtle patterns adding a more feminine and quaint quality to this particular print. Safari inspired clobber supporting bold prints and embellishment as well as accessories are major factors in nailing this trend.

Leather belts and bags with exotic faux prints such as snake skin and crocodile skin are great accessories to help complete this look. Think big zebra prints, khaki, shirts and jackets. Roberto Cavalli and Donna Karan had amazing African inspired collections with their spring/summer trends. Of course it goes without saying that this trend perfectly suits Ibiza's renowned event The Zoo Project.

Floral:

Summer wouldn't be summer without a selection of floral prints and true to form Erdem have created a beautiful traditional collection capturing the feminine qualities of the print. However there are a few varieties out there for S/S 2012; Christopher Kane has incorporated the girly print into shift dresses, coats and more formal wear which brings a more serious and powerful edge to the predominantly delicate trend. Valentino also added a unique take on the floral print with a monochrome colour scheme and long hem lines which oozed romance. Whilst Chloe embraced the elegant trend with simple blooms against cream silk.

So there is no stopping you taking the floral print to another level this year and putting your own twist on it as it seems like pretty much anything goes. Always remember less is more when it comes to print.

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