Hello 2012! Can you believe that it's a new year? I just love a new day, a new season, and especially a new year! I have a very special thank you to all of you - my readers - and my Chatter teammates who desire and strive for the very best. This is our 3rd anniversary of bringing Chatter Chattanooga fashions to you. Our Chattanooga retailers have made it though some very tough economic times and now it's time for all of our futures to shine!
Kim Coulter wears a Black Halo winter white dress from Alice Blue (left), and a Rachel Zoe jacket from Willa Collection (right)January is the time to make and begin your new goals. Here are some easy ways for you to start making a positive change in your wardrobe, which will result in a brand new brighter you. Do you really want a new look? Who is stopping you? No more excuses: start now - not tomorrow! Once you decide if you really want a fresh new you then look in your closet and ask yourself these questions. When was the last time I wore this, when will I wear it again, and do I look and feel fantastic in this? Take these questions very seriously. Just by deleting items from your closet you will feel fresh and have an immediate inventory on what will work for 2012.
The biggest trend is the usage of colors. You will see solid fuchsia, red, orange, yellow, green and plum dresses. Color blocking and tribal prints are also the latest rage. The blazer returns in a huge way. You will find both single and double-breasted blazers with or without shoulder pads. For those of you who want more of an edgy look, go for the blazer with the shoulder pads. It's a fun look that's sharp and confident.
Patent leather is bigger than ever in purses and shoes. And yes, look for the bold bright colors in platform heels. Bright colors are everywhere this year!
It's time for you to beam with a fresh, new image. Say goodbye to your old clothes and "Hello!" to a bright new you!
Happy New Year my fabulous fashionistas!
- Kim
Kim's 2012 Trend Forecast:
DRESSES: Strapless and one shoulder dresses continue to dominate the cocktail scene. Micro pleating is not only a big trend in dresses, but it's very flattering. You will also see ruffles in dresses for both day & evening. Lady like dresses will remain strong, but watch for the pleated waistbands, which can sometimes add to your frame.
JACKETS: Besides color, the blazer is the must have piece for 2012. It looks chic with a skirt, pants, jeans, and even shorts. Have fun with your look. Maybe select a leather jacket and have that be your statement piece.
Kim Coulter wears a Rachel Zoe Cila black jewel neck jacket from Willa Collection.SWEATERS: Long cardigans & long solid sweaters are being worn over skinny jeans. I guess you could say that this is the new "twin set" look. Just be cognizant of the proportion. I'm not a fan of this look for my petite clients. Also don't buy the over - sized long cardigans because this will hide your shape and make you look sloppy.
JEANS: The waists are finally rising however; both wide and skinny legs are in for 2012. Remember that white jeans will brighten up any dark sweater.
SHOES: Platform sexy heels, platform wedge patent sandals, espadrille platform and flat sandals are all hot for 2012. The heel has become chunky however, platform stilettos are hot for those of you who want to look daintier.
JEWELRY: Bold wide gold cuffs, snakeskin & leather, and gold & black bangles are this year's look. Colorful accessories will make any outfit pop.
BAGS: Patent leather purses mixed with bamboo or gold, neutral & colored snakeskin, and oversized hobos are all new looks for 2012.
HAIR: Rodney, from Splash Salon, says that long, natural, loose wavy hair will be the look for 2012. You will see a lot of ponytails, but not to worry, very short hair will be in vogue too.
MAKE UP: CHANEL make up artist, Brandy from Belk, says that berries, rich melons, peaches, creams and gold will be make up colors for both the spring and summer.
My rule is that if you don't feel good in a trend then don't buy it. Our Chattanooga storeowners want you to love what you buy, so you will keep coming back for more gorgeous ensembles.