The spring 2012 Fashion Week showed more variety than one can remember. Imagination flowed rampantly and styles evoked economic optimism. Colors got bolder, prints went psychedelic and metallic zinged in front of our eyes.

Color Block

Bold, solid pieces were seen blocked together like never before. Scorching combinations effortlessly linked such colors as coral, pink and lime. Marc Jacobs and Rag & Bone were some of the favorite lines. Blocking colors has a huge impact and can easily look glam. Style tip: Stick to three colors max to avoid looking childish and to avoid any color conflicts.

Prints on prints on prints

Head-to-toe prints were seen from designers like Peter Som and Prabal Gurung, who mixed patterns in the most unconventional way. This trend is definitely not for the shy! Though we also saw more muted versions of print execution from Vera Wang, who played down bold prints by adding a classic black blazer. And don’t discard those florals just yet. This season, the trend continues with a high dose of flower power. To achieve maximum impact, don’t be afraid to mix and match—the style calls for it!

Fluorescent Orange

Printing and color manufacturer Pantone predicted the most popular color of Spring 2012, and we saw that they were spot on with their prediction of ‘Tangerine Tango’. Not only tangerine, but also all hues of orange flooded the runways, though tangerine was the most vibrant yet. Marc by Marc Jacobs featured a tangerine shift as the opener of the show, and Derek Lam closed with an evening gown in the bright hue. This is a shade that works for most every skin tone and is very easy to wear. Our Style tip: Temper this bright hue by pairing with nude accessories.

Romantic

This spring brought a shift back to the 1920s, and you can be sure that frills and romance will find their way back into your wardrobe. They were seen everywhere from button down shirts by Marc Jacobs to flapper style dresses fashioned by Marchesa. We saw an even more literal interpretation by Ralph Lauren that included rich silks, feathers and Art Deco beading. With the arrival of cloche hats, high-waisted trousers and below-the-knee silk floral skirts, people will undoubtedly channel their inner Gatsby this spring.

Metallic

Gleam is in style this season with the arrival of metallic. No longer reserved solely for evening, we saw the influx of metallic in our every day basics. Now you can be sure to sparkle in the sunlight in daytime wear. Herve Leger kept their bandage-style of dresses, only this time featured in a striking metallic. Diesel Black Gold showed us how to incorporate metallic into the everyday and Carolina Herrera reminded us how to be a showstopper in their metallic evening wear. There were many hues of this metal-inspired look, ranging from classic gold to silvery blues and even black. Scared to incorporate into daily wear? Start on the small scale; a scarf or belt will effortlessly do the trick.

Luxe Safari

Safari has been a reoccurring trend over the years, but this time it seemed somewhat reinvented. This time, safari was showcased as edgy but sweet and featured tough details in a sea of camouflage and khaki. Chris Benz showed us utilitarian blazers in a camo print. Michael Kors’ safari look was inspired after his recent trip to South Africa’s Kruger National Park. He lined up a rugged, earthy collection nothing short of iconic. This is an easy transition from winter, especially if you have a khaki trench, but don’t be afraid to pair it with some shorts or even a skirt. It may not be the most practical safari gear, but it has never been more chic. 

IMAGE would like to thank The Where House for providing the photo-shoot location. The Where House, located on 2510 Hemphill Ave. is an unmarked, “underground” music and art venue owned by Casey Smith. The building is unmarked and has red doors. Its hours and events are exclusively listed here.