New York Fashion Week just wrapped up and in its honour, we’ve put together a round-up of some of the most prominent trends in the spring 2013 collections.

FASHION TRENDS

Leather
L to R: Project Runway, Tracy Reese, Ralph Lauren

Disclaimer: I am obsessed with leather (real and faux) and would wear it from head to toe if it was socially acceptable to do so, so this one is close to my heart. From Jason Wu’s stunning – and uncharacteristically provocative – collection, to the leather vests at the Project Runway finale, it’s clear that designers are not interested in finding a cure for their Fifty Shades of Grey fever, and that’s just fine with me. Let’s just call it fifty shades of chic.

Prints
L to R: Carlos Miele; Marimekko; Marc Jacobs

I know what you’re thinking: prints are always in. And it’s true; it’s not like they ever went out of style, but for spring, they’re done differently. For the past few seasons, graphic florals have dominated, but their reign is over. Marimekko and Marc Jacobs went for a bold abstract look, while Carlos Miele presented lovely, feminine frocks adorned with animal prints. When you’re shopping, make sure to keep an eye out for nature-inspired printed pieces.

Aquatic

L to R: Diane Von Furstenberg, Donna Karan, Lela Rose

Perhaps the most interesting and fun-to-play-with trend of spring 2013 is the water-inspired theme that appeared on the runways of Monique Lhullier and Donna Karan. While nautical pieces definitely popped up here and there, the trend took a more literal approach. The designers featured stunning (seriously, just breathtaking) pieces that were inspired by the ocean. This coming spring, you’ll want to adjust your colour palette to include lots of turquoise, seafoam and baby blue. Have fun with this one and don’t be afraid to get your mermaid on.

BEAUTY TRENDS

Of course fashion is the main focus of New York Fashion Week (go figure) but that doesn’t mean that we didn’t notice some beauty trends popping up. For the hair, nails and makeup fans out there, these are for you.

Deep Side Parts

Backstage at Helmut Lang

Many major labels, from Marc Jacobs to Lacoste and DKNY showcased a deep side part on their models. Not only is the look super easy to emulate, but it’s flattering on most face shapes. Give it a shot!

Fancy French Manicures

CND’s Shelena Robinson creates a fancy french manicure for Angel Sanchez’s spring show.

This is not your traditional French manicure, with pale polish and white tips. Instead, designers like Peter Som created an irresistible twist on the French manicure by topping off pastel polish with neon tips. This is one look we cannot wait to try out.

Bold Eyes
L to R: Backstage at Altuzarra, backstage at Cushnie et Ochs

It may be time to stock up on some black eyeliner (gel, pencil or liquid will all work). But rather than going for an Amy Winehouse-inspired cat-eye, opt for a retro chunky line all around your eye, as seen at Altuzarra, Cushnie et Ochs and Erin Fetherston. Look to old photos of Brigitte Bardot for inspiration.

Souzan Michael is a lifestyle writer and editor. She’s currently a Junior Lifestyle Editor at Shaw Media.

 

Image credits:Project Runway, Carlos Miele, Diane Von Furstenberg, Ralph Lauren, Tracy Reese: Frazier Harrison; Donna Karan: Neilson Barnard; Marimekko: Dario Cantatore; Marc Jacobs: Peter Michael Dills; Ralph Lauren: Frazer Harrison; Lela Rose: Arun Nevader; Helmut Lang: Vivien Killilea; Backstage at Altuzarra: Chelsea Lauren; Backstage at Cushnie et Ochs: Michael Loccisano.