The new year brings new opportunities for change and that includes style. So we talked to some local observers and asked them to reflect on what they see being served next on our fashion plates.
Ryan Hurley and Nadira Hurley
Owners of vert & vogue boutique, Durham
Q: What style trends do you think we'll see develop in the Triangle in 2012?
A: Beyond matters of style and color, we've noticed a broader trend - people are yearning for a deeper connection to what they wear. This hunger is palpable at v&v when we tell folks that 50 percent of our collection is made in the USA by independent designers (compared to 3 percent, the industry average). This fact immediately enlivens them.
Regarding trends in color and style, fashion has a seen-on-the-street quality to it today. A quality of mixing genres, eras and colors the way ordinary people do each day when they open up their wardrobe. This will manifest in 2012 with playful patterns and splashes of color brightening up the new year, especially yellows and oranges prevailing this spring. It could be described as an updated '70s vibe. Designers like Tucker have their finger on the pulse, presenting a very feminine and sophisticated look for women with bold prints and billowy silk fabrics. These pieces are being paired with high-waisted jeans to create a silhouette that's super chic!
Q: The Triangle has become a burgeoning scene for designers. Are there any you see emerging in the new year? Who should we look out for?
A: Raleigh Denim founders Sarah and Victor Lytvinenko are doing a tremendous job putting the area on the map with their label. Last year was a big one for them, and we know that 2012 will be even bigger. We're excited to see Raleigh Denim's women's collection develop, and they continually delight us with their impeccable men's styles.
Ashley Brodie is also super talented! Her jewelry has been turning a lot of heads lately. She's Durham-based, which we absolutely love, and her rocker-meets-refined style can win anyone over. She's part of a growing generation of jewelry makers using upcycled metals and vintage materials.
There's also Krissy Anderson, who designs beautiful hand-stitched leather bags and wallets as Mill & Bird. She has a small production that we're happy to see is carried in a few local boutiques.
Q: What trends would you like to see go away that you've found to be particular to the Triangle fashionista?
A: You have to recognize what works for you and your body. Wear the right size - that's where it starts. Trends are meant to be played with. No one has the monopoly on taste. Do what feels right for you!
Q: What one item (for men and women) would you advocate we add to our wardrobes or upgrade in our wardrobes?
A: For men, it's a pair of well-cut, raw denim jeans. Raw denim is a staple of the menswear movement today. It can be dressed up or down and worn with just about any shirt or shoe. It creates a very cool look as the denim softens and contrasting tones break out, personalized to how you sit or where you put your wallet.
For women, it's a silk tunic or blouse in a fresh color and bold print. This piece can be worn with a skirt for a night out or occasion or day-to-day with well-cut, designer denim and heels or ballet flats. It will add some flavor to your wardrobe.
Q: In the new year, people are often looking for renewal. How would you suggest people begin that process when it comes to fashion?
A: In our store, we encourage customers to play dress up and try something new. Just for fun. It's amazing the effect that wardrobe has on mood. Start today. Do it now. Wear something soft and beautiful every day. Add a little something, just a little. Take care of yourself. It shows.
Denise Rankin
Personal stylist, Belk Crabtree Valley, Raleigh
Q: What style trends do you think we'll see play out the Triangle in 2012?
All feather earrings need to go, also feather everything needs to go.
Q: Are there any trends you see fading away? Are there any trends you see among Triangle shoppers you would like to see fade away?
A: Shorts and tights with really high heels really need to go. I would like to see the dolman sleeve, square block sweaters fade away because they are a lovely thought - in theory. The look is a throwback from Norma Kamali 1980s; however, no coats were designed to go over them effectively.
Q: What one item would you insist a Triangle fashionista own and why?
A: An envelope clutch bag. A envelope clutch is a timeless classic that can assist you, whether you're wearing denim or black tie. It can lend the appropriate pop of color or texture needed to complete your outfit. It is lightweight, sleek and accommodates the necessary items without feeling bogged down.
Q: If someone is reassessing his/her style for the new year, how would you tell them to start?
A: You must always start with great basics items of the highest quality that your budget can accommodate. You can always accessorize with the new hottest trends.
Chelsea MacMeekin
Fashion writer, HautechildintheCity.com
Q: In general, how would you describe the Triangle's style aesthetic?
A: I think that the Triangle has a very eclectic mix of styles and that's what is so fantastic about fashion in the Triangle. I can gain fashion inspiration from a variety of different styles, incorporate it into my daily outfits, and make it my own.
Q: .What style trend(s) do you think we'll see develop in the Triangle in 2012? What trend hasn't caught on that you'd love to see us pick up?
A: I think the Triangle has done a great job with keeping up with the latest trends in fashion. The people in this area have a great knack for what works for them and what doesn't, but I would love to see fashion become more mainstream here and be a bit more forward thinking; less reactive and more proactive. I'd love the see people in the Triangle take more risks.
Q: What trends would you like to see go away that you've found to be particular to the Triangle?
A: I would love the see Crocs completely disappear from the face of the earth, as well as Uggs with shorts or skirts. If it's cold enough to wear Uggs, then it is certainly too cold to wear skirts or shorts.
Q: As the year begins, lots of people are thinking about change. What tip or piece of style advice would you offer to someone pondering a style fresh start?
A: Purge your closets! I'm just as guilty as anyone for holding onto clothing, but I've had to make a concerted effort over the years to go through my closet every season and remove clothing that I haven't worn in a year or doesn't fit anymore. Having a closet that isn't full of clutter and clean will allow you to really assess what the holes are in your wardrobe and identify what you need to do from there. Beyond that, my fundamental advice to anyone who is looking to expand their closet or fill in the gaps is to build a strong foundation in your wardrobe. By investing in classic pieces, you'll find it is incredibly easy to build upon those to incorporate the latest trends and upgrade your look.
Lauren Smith
Designer, LLLavender
Q: What trends do you think we'll see play out in the Triangle in 2012?
A: I think we'll see a much more liberated approach to combining patterns and textures. The influx of flowers, colorful stripes and animal prints in new spring collections is sure to be lovingly embraced by the Triangle.
The Triangle in 2012 is going to see an explosion of color, combining patterns and textures in ways that we haven't seen before. Flowers, stripes, animal prints and vibrant colors will dominate the Triangle. Hard times speak through fashion in a dramatic attempt to keep our spirits high and light.
Q: The fashion/style industry in the Triangle and North Carolina is really growing. Are there any designers (besides yourself!) that you see emerging next year?
A: The fresh and innovative designs of Tyger Alexis by Kristin Robbins are definitely worth watching. Gabrielle Duggan is amazing with her designs based upon her exquisite use of her original woven/knit/crocheted textiles. I also think you might keep an eye out for the new "fictional town" that has just sprouted in the Triangle called Villette! It is the new design home of Kelly Ruehlman and Amy Quinn, two designers relatively new to our area. The accessories of Pilar Ramirez of Pamor Designs are wonderful. Her jewelry is alive with color and movement we haven't seen before.
Q: The new year is often about renewal and change. If you could recommend one style change, what would it be?
A: Don't be afraid to break the rules. Try combining the different ends of your wardrobe spectrum, pairing athletic wear with flirty feminine details, or wearing funky, retro pieces with unusual colors over your classic staples.
Q: What changes as a designer and as a fashionista will you make this year?
A: I plan to be daring and bold with my fabric choices. Mixing richly colored prints and contrasting textures will take its lead from my creation of whimsical appliques and embellishments. As a designer, my job will always be about making my clients feel good about themselves. I think this year we need a pinch of drama and some great colors.
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