More is Better: Warm Weather Fashion 2012

Fashion icon Coco Chanel once said “less is more,” and the idea that more is better in regard to some things can definitely get you into trouble. However, as far as fashion goes for spring/summer 2012, “more is better” is the way to go.

Even big spenders and celebrity fashionistas are cutting back, just like the rest of us, but designers are completely embracing excess and we are embracing it right back. Now, my fellow budget fashionistas, you can relax, sit down, and take a breath if you need to. I am not talking about the excess of spending and indulging in overpriced luxury items like we have seen in previous fashion seasons. You can do that too, but I am talking about the excess, or rather the generous use of accents and detailing on garments and accessories.

It seems like when they were coming up for fashion trends for the upcoming warm weather, every fashion designer was chanting more, more, more. This type of excess is the usual bill of fare for Prada, Dolce and Gabanna, and several other big names in the business, but several designers who normally go subtle and understated are jumping on the more is better bandwagon by using bright colors, eye-catching fabrications, and embellishments in their fashion lines.

You don’t have to spend a lot to work this trend. In addition to new designers, there are lots of new, affordable retailers working this trend, like H&M, Target, and Forever 21. And just in case you’re not ready to make any purchases, you can work this trend within the wardrobe you already have started.

When you’re getting dressed and accessorizing, just remember a few simple rules: More color, more detailing, more prints, and definitely more accessories. It’s almost impossible to overdo it when getting dressed this season. Spring/summer 2009 is pretty much a fashion free for all. Feel free to mix and match patterns and fabrics, and please pile on the jewelry, fine and faux. Although I am a fan of the less is more fashion school of thought, I am loving all of this freedom, and I think this is a nice change in addition to being a great pick-me-up for everyone in these lean times.