One of the things I love about fashion is its dynamism—the intense mix of creativity, glamor, marketing and business, all these playing off each other. As Karl Lagerfeld once said, “Fashion is not for everyone. It is ephemeral and fleeting.”

 

Yet this is what makes it all the more intriguing, stimulating and exciting. I love watching what designers will churn out season after season. I look forward to how they surprise us with their ideas and strive to make them relevant to the modern day. It is interesting to see how each of them attempts to impart his/her vision and tell his unique story.

 

I am challenged to try to understand the designers’ psyches, and how they lobby and offer their ideas to a discriminating marketplace.

 

I love how trends can serve as bookmarks of a period, and a reflection of the pulse of society and culture.

 

I first took note of and began to understand how trends figure in the industry in my first job in a local teen glossy. It made me understand fashion from another perspective—not merely as consumer but as an insider and propagator.

 

Now as a designer with retail stores to tend to, I consider taking note of trends as part of the territory. Trends have not only been a source of design inspiration, they also have been my means to build my wardrobe and be part of the fashion fun.

 

Let me share the trends  I am wearing and loving this year:

 

Rock romantic

 

Championed by the house of Valentino, this is a balanced mix of femininity, edge and spunk. Think lace and florals topped by studs and heavy metal.

 

Statement trousers

 

This year is all about statement-making trousers, whether they be in cool print or a unique hue. Top with a basic tee or an equally eye-catching blouse for no-brainer dressing-up.

 

Lady-like chic

 

I always love celebrating elegance and femininity. This trend allows us to flaunt hourglass silhouettes while remaining refined and sophisticated.

 

The printed suit

 

What better way to look every part the power woman than in a strong printed suit? It’s an updated and fresh alternative to a printed dress!

 

Cute collar

 

The easy step to smart dressing is to focus on the collar. Choose a contrast collar, an embellished collar or even  neckpiece collar.

 

Metallic basics

 

Because going glam is one of my favorite things! Try a metallic gold tee, skirt or pants. Dress up with an elaborate top or dress, or dress down with cotton tees and denim for contrast.

 

Smart jacket 

 

Tailored jacket makes professional dressing quick and simple. Use over T-shirt and jeans or casual dress, and you’re instantly put together.

 

Blush and beautiful

 

Going blush and nude is another easy chic staple I’ve added to my wardrobe this year. A dress, bag or shoe in those tones looks al ways fresh, clean and modern.

 

Tailored pastels 

 

One of my favorites from Spring 2012. The refreshing blend of pastel colors with strong silhouettes was a pleasant surprise. Buttoned-up shirts, light blazers and minimalist skirts and trousers look new and fun in these hues.

 

Decorative sunglasses

 

The best way to perk up an otherwise plain outfit is through an eye-catching pair of sunnies! Yes, even when you’re indoors. Stock up on a range of glasses with baroque, metallic and even printed details that are pure fun!

 

Follow the author on Twitter @aminaaranaz.