2009 Spring Dresses - the latest catwalk fashions

Wondering just how short are dresses for this spring ?

The catwalks for 2009 showed shades of black, greys and beiges disappearing and a welcoming in of pastel colors.

Hot magenta pink was also seen as were long trench coats in fashionable slinky fabrics.  Sequins are usually only seen on evening wear, but adding it to everyday wear is now in.

The most popular trend is likely the shape of jeans changing to a more relaxed fit - with zippers being seen on some of the most feminine of clothing.  Expect to see these accessories turning up on teen fashion in the stores .

Big jewellery is still THE fashion accessory, with clothing in bold patterns and blocks of colours being a real hit on the New York runways.  All in all, it promises to be a season full of exciting and dramatic fashion colors.

The Formal Spring Dress

Oscar de la Renta brought back the little black dress with a twist in his Spring 2009 collection.  Using a combination of black and white created some stunning designs to die for.  This will look great for evening wear and on special occasions.

Trends for bridal gowns show shirred and ruched fabrics (Betsey Johnson)  - making a real statement.  Designers like Y3 brought in simple looks in sheer fabrics that are perfect for the modern bride , but designed to take your breath away.

In her latest bridal fashion collection, Vera Wang managed to combine the traditional look with ultra modern with use of bows and accessories, floral trains and fabulous fabrics.

The Latest Catwalk Fashions for Spring 2009

Its never too early to start thinking about next seasons fashion trends, especially when the catwalks for spring run at least 6 months before spring fashion appears in stores.  

Dresses on the runways were, as always, a highlight. There were many different looks by the designers, and there are more new trends this year than 2007. So, have a look at some of the following ideas for how to keep current: 

- Neutral Palette (Burberry Prorsum, Armani) 

To wear this look without looking boring, make sure you choose neutral colours in luxurious fabrics, like satin, silk or wool even. Pick a dress with contrasting coloured detailing. For example, a cream dress with a mushroom color cropped leather jacket and matching boots has the potential to look pieced together by Giorgio if you do it right. 

- Blues + Prints (Alberta Ferretti, Gucci) 

This is a way of letting summer into your wardrobe a season too early, and preparing yourself for the coming months of gorgeous weather. For your next spring evening, pop on a dress that makes you feel stunning and sexy, choose one in a slinky fabric in a jewel colour. Prints are trendy as well, but choose large ones in great cuts and materials, which look inspired by nature. 

- Knee Length (Carolina Herrera, Oscar de la Renta) 

For formal gowns, the most appropriate hem line is cut at the knee this season. Whether this be a fifties flare, a bodycon or tulip shaped. Short dresses are still fashionable, but for real style respect, choose something more demure and modest. 

- Riviera (D&G, Marc by Marc Jacobs) 

Stripes. High waisted. Navy. Sunglasses. Tidy hair. These are the things that make up a perfect Riviera look. This look is quite laid back and casual, although it requires a lot of effort to achieve this. Pair a pale trench coat with a striped or printed dress, a pretty pair of flat sandals and an interesting necktie or scarf.  

- Textured (Prada, Vera Wang) 

To find a textured dress that you like and suits you as well, is a bit of a challenge, but it is worth the effort, because it is such an individual look.

This is the perfect way of making a mother of the bride outfit at a wedding look more stylish than a regular skirt suit. Find a designer that offers quality textured fabric, like crushed silk or other crumpled fabrics.

Beware: This sort of look is best kept on women with enough confidence to wear it, rather than girls trying to make a statement. 

Check out these looks on the catwalk by watching Alberto Ferretti's Spring 2009 collection:-

For more inspiration and ideas, why not watch more of Alberto's collections online at YouTube. 

Recommended Resources

80's fashion trends - back in fashion and into your wardrobe, hot eighties pants and crop tops

Little Black Dress - seen on the runways as a spring 2009 trend with a touch of shimmer or glitz