Plastic Fashion Trends for 2011

Fashion Catwalk

Staying ahead of the fashion curve is challenging! For every new trend, there’s an even newer one gracing the catwalk or appearing in stores.  So get a jumpstart on the trends forecasted by top fashion influencers such as Glamour Magazine, NBC’s Thread/NY, Luuux and more. You’ll find innovative uses of plastic fibers and materials in new collections by Marc Jacobs, Diane Von Furstenberg, Donna Karan, Cynthia Rowley … just to name a few.

Big, Bold, Bright Bangles: Mix-and-match plastic bracelets add a splash of color. Spring and summer mean bright colors, while bone, horn, and tortoise-shell looks are perfect into fall. Let your chunky bangles make a statement like Marc Jacobs does with this look.

Sheer Magic: Although sheer fabrics at times appear to encourage exhibitionism, they are hotter than ever — in the right place. Fashioned from polyester, nylon and other lightweight plastic fibers, sheer layers surprisingly can create a classy impression (and a bit of a stir as future royal Kate Middleton discovered). For the modest approach, take a peak at Glamour’s tips on this season’s sheer style.

It’s Always Sunny Somewhere: Shield your eyes from the sun’s glare (and the paparazzi flash bulbs) in 60s style, oversized plastic sunglasses. Or add a 50s flair with dramatic plastic cat eye glasses! Diane Von Furstenberg and Marc Jacobs take on the trend in their 2011 spring shows here and here.

Schoolhouse Prep: Slip on your polyester (plastic) and cotton blend polo for a chic, yet casual daytime look. Tommy Hilfiger for one is going all out and embracing the preppy trend in his 2011 spring line.

Tie ‘Em Up: This year’s shoes are taking laces to new lengths with extra long, extra twisty, polyester (plastic) shoe laces. Renowned shoe designer Brian Atwood pairs lengthy laces with sky-high stilettos in his new spring/summer 2011 collection.

From Ankle High to Thigh High: Socks, nylons, tights and other leggings are sticking around into 2011… but this year look for your plastic-fiber favorites in a multitude of new prints and colors. Cynthia Rowley, Zac Posen, Donna Karan, Sonia Rykiel, and Milly all feature printed tights in their 2011 collections.