Spring 2013 Trends Spotted on the Runways

Original Image Source: harpersbazaar.com via Melissa on Pinterest

One of the many reasons I love fashion is because it is an eloquent translation of the trends of our society. One can look through the history pages of fashion and understand the mindset of the culture. The runways of Spring/Summer 2013 were no different. After finally sorting through all the photos and having the time to look at the collections overall, I've put together the top trends I noticed and what they mean.

L-R: Badgley Mischka; J. Mendel; Monique Lhuillier; Christian Siriano; Naeem Khan

Almost every designer seemed to be inspired by the sea for Spring 2013. Of course Spring/Summer seasons we like to travel and enjoy beaches. However, I think this also shows that a major issue affecting our society is being artistically interpreted - the effects of global warming. The Arctic ice caps are melting at an alarming rate and many islands that we call paradise will be submerged under water. While there was some post-apocalyptic looks on the runways. Designers opted for a more romantic ideal that perhaps we'll all be living under the sea like mermaids one day in fabulous gowns.

L-R: Dolce & Gabbana; Ralph Lauren; Mara Hoffman

When things are bad at home, it is human nature to fantasize about a better place. The grass is always greener on the other side, right? What helped Americans through the 1930s Depression were movies with glamourous stars. It is no secret that our country is recovering from a hard-hitting Recession with many economists saying we're headed for a double dip Recession. With that in mind, designers transported us to exotic locations: Mara Hoffman took us to Hawaii, Dolce & Gabbana to Sicily and Ralph Lauren to Spain.

L-R: Marc Jacobs; Michael Kors

Probably one of the biggest trends on the runway for Spring 2013. Mod inspired stripes, minimalism, black & white. I decided to feature two American designers rather than overloading you with pictures. Mod became popular in the early 1960s when our country was making a big push for space exploration. Never before in our history have we've been so ambitious with our outer space exploration than like we are currently with the Mars rover landing. We are a feeling a bit of whimsy towards outer space again and perhaps designers are plotting our outfits for our vacation homes on Mars.

L-R: Alexander Wang; Balmain; Hader Ackermann; Rodarte; Salvatore Ferragamo

L-R: Givenchy; Stella McCartney; Preen; Rag & Bone; Victoria Beckham

Women are a force to be reckon with on and off the runway. Women are out earning men and are more than half the population. McQueen explored the trend of "strong femininity" throughout his design career but now other designers are getting on board. There were lots of feminine fabrics like lace combined with leather or even flats (shocking!). While models appeared covered up laser cut details allowed a hint of sexiness. This trend came in spring like colors as well as gothic black.

What trends did you spot for Spring 2013?

All images courtesy of Style.com