As it generally goes with fashion, an edgy statement becomes a trend for the watchers before it is refined into a mainstream style that is generally accepted. Mixed prints has followed that history. Life was first breathed into this style by the urban street fashions. It moved its way into clubs and is now a sign of youth in the everyday establishment fashion. So, how do you wear this trend in the mainstream? Here are a few ideas that I believe make this trend successful.

Be intentional. Purchase mixed print pieces from the same collection that were intended to be worn together. Generally, I avoid matchy-matchy but this is one of those exceptions. This outfit looks put together because the fabrics relate to each other and create a symmetry. The fabrics also have a similar weight so that they belong together. And the colors work together. There are many shades of blue and red. This outfit would be a disaster if these pieces were not dye matched.

So what if you are like me? You love the idea of mixing prints but not quite ready to take the print on print leap? Consider adding a buttoned cardigan or jacket to break up the pieces. Or instead of the top, opt for a scarf and go with a solid top or blouse that is dye matched to the other pieces. Another option is to go with a statement accessory such as shoes or handbag. Follow the trend but stay true to who you are.

The beauty here is that these pieces are true separates that work together to make a distinctive look.  The top is Amagansett Camisole In Geometric Dot Print of Polyester/Spandex. Are you thinking that you would not be comfortable wearing this top without a jacket.  Consider the slight capped shoulder baring sleeve, the topstitching detail at hem, and the shelf bra detail which finish off the look and allow it to stand alone.  The Sag Harbor Skirt is a Geometric Dot Print  made of Stretch Cotton/Nylon. It also has great finishing touches which allow it to stand alone:  a straight waist with a concealed dyed-to-match side zipper closure prevents bulkiness, while front and back waist darts make the skirt comfortable to wear and a look that is finished.

 Click here to shop the look.  

Click here to see the entire Doncaster Spring collection.

I cannot believe it is already February!  Will Pauxatony Phil see his shadow on Groundhog Day? Do you have plans for Valentines Day?  We are going to a benefit for the victims of the Haiti Earthquake.  And, if you haven’t started yet, its time to start thinking about your new look for Spring!  Throughout the month of February, check in at GlamourByLBD.com for great practical advice, the best Presidents Day Sales, and wonderful Valentines Day promotions.

For the month of February, click on the Little Red Dress to save 10% off select red dresses and accessories. And eDressMe will donate 10% of the proceeds to the American Heart Association.

And for a great sale on an outstanding selection of jeans, click here or on the graphic below. 

In 1986, Sarah “Fergie” Ferguson married Prince Andrew in a dress with a bow on the back and set off a wedding dress rage.  That was the era when many of my friends got married, most of them wearing bows.  Where Fergie and Andrew are no more but the bows are back.  

Bows are everywhere on the runways for Spring.  Bows are across the board from chic to Stepford.  Bows on skirts.  Bows on tops.  Bows on dresses.  Bows on accessories.  And bows were prominent with many designers including Valentino, Moschino Cheap and Chic, Yves St. Laurent, Marc Jacobs, and Peter Som.

Doncaster has answered the relevant trend with a wearable alternative:  The Monica Skirt with self-bow detail at center front.  The skirt is constructed of stretch Cotton twill with just a little spandex to make it comfortable and smart. The straight waistband, concealed dyed-to-match side zipper closure, curved pockets at front, and back waist darts make it great for many body types. And the fact that the skirt is machine washable makes it very practical. 

Click here to shop for the Monica Skirt at Doncaster. 

I don’t know who the uninspired person who came up with the concept of the short top with low rise jeans was but I won’t miss that horrific trend and the resulting “muffin top.” The longer top that is well tailored and fitted is a look that we can all wear. Notice that the rounded collar is quite flattering and the tucks and gathers fall at just the right place to give the wearer height. The white blouse draws the eyes up to the face and away from the hips and thighs. This is a great look that will take the wearer through the day from work and into the evening. Elegant. Timeless.

In a time when we are all just a little more careful about where our dollars are going, this is smart shopping.

The pants styles for Spring are anything but straight.  So according to your style and body type, you can be just as fashionable in wide leg pants as you are in skinny jeans. 

For a more classic or professional look, everyone from Catherine Malandrino to Armani is showing a drapy wide leg pant with a high waist.  These pants are often seen with assymetrical jackets which have been notched up with details such as statement collars, bows, and topstiching.  Generally speaking, this type of pant really looks best with heels. 

If a more youthful and casual look is what you are looking for, pair skinny jeans with a long top or boyfriend jacket.  Depending on your style and what the weather is doing, you can tuck these jeans into a boot, wear with a high heel pump or sandal or with the perfect pair of flats. 

Whether you are looking for wide legs to wear on a business trip or jeans to wear out with a boyfriend jackets and cute shoes, Doncaster has some great choices for you for Spring 2010.  

Click here to see more of the Doncaster collection.