Month: January 2012

It’s a whole new year, so can a whole new wardrobe be far behind?  These are my personal favorite fashion trends for spring/summer 2012 and I’ve collated those that are most adaptable to Manila and to the Filipina’s style sensibilities.  Here’s what I’m most inspired by, and excited to try out, in the coming months: 1.  Sorbet Shades – Neon colors were strong in the recent past, but for this summer I’m really loving cool, delicious, pastel shades.  Take inspiration from your favorite ‘sorbetero’ and wear colors as light and refreshing as ice cream.  Try the palest, prettiest shades of mango (yellow), ube (lavender), avocado (pale green) and strawberry (pink). 2.  Hot Hues – Strong, fruity colors like tangerine (dubbed THE color for 2012), orange, red and all shades of raspberry (from pale to deep pink) will be ubiquitous in the coming months.  These colors, worn individually or color-blocked, work especially well with the Filipina’s skin tone (whether morena, chinita or mestiza). 3.  Graphic/Baroque Details – Graphic swirls, curls and flourishes are one of my favorite design details, and this year they are given a stronger, more graphic touch.  Steal elements from our colonial, baroque past and wear pieces that are rich in intricate detail. 4.  Bold Florals – Nothing complements Manila’s tropical weather like bold florals.  What differentiates them from the dainty prints in the past is these...