Spice up your wardrobe with international appeal

This spring and summer runways were rich with culture and flooded with fashion influences from every corner of the world. From saris and caftans to batik and ikat, contemporary designers looked to ancient wisdom. Bright, bold designs passed down through generations helped to infuse current collections. Many designers offer some inspirations that will give your wardrobe international appeal.

India’s vibrant colours

In a land where spiritual energy and even cities are associated with various shades, vivid colours like hot pink and turquoise rule the fashion roadways. But you don’t have to be in Joudhpur (“The Blue City”) or Jaipur (“The Pink City”) to incorporate these hot hues into your wardrobe; juicy tropical colours are major this spring. Take the look even further by trying out a tie-dye or batik piece. You may associate these techniques with America's hippie era, but they actually hail from India, a region known for its fabulous play on colours. Embellishments and ornate accessories such as bangles or chandelier earrings complete the look and add the obligatory amount of adornment.

Africa’s traditional prints

World news, politics and celebrity attention have shed a recent spotlight on Africa, making it only natural for designers to have this region top of mind while conjuring up inspiration for their runway looks. Animal motifs are now considered classics, and safari chic is becoming a staple in summer collections, but this season's abundance of bold tribal patterns and ikat designs is helping Africa come to life in a whole new way. The region's earthy, rich landscape provides the colour palette for these styles, but the range of influence from this region is as vast as the land itself. From a crisp and conservative khaki creation to a wildly exotic outfit, African-inspired pieces are parading across American streets this season in diverse ensembles.

Latin America’s embroidery

While the incredibly detailed patterns associated with Latin American fashion have a beautiful romantic allure, the ancient woven designs were originally used to share stories and tell of dreams. Natural, gauzy blouses and dresses trimmed with colourful, complex stitchwork reflect generations of women and their handiwork. Mexican folk art, vibrant textiles and accents such as small, brightly coloured Chaquira beads have heavily influenced contemporary accessories, while traditional woven and embossed leather crafts are always considered summer staples. Latin fever is spreading, from John Galliano's recent fiesta-infused resort collection for Christian Dior to Catherine Malandrino's festive spring designs to Old Navy's 'Mexicali' items. Are you next?

Asia’s silhouettes

Asian culture is a source of grace and elegance, examplified by beautiful silhouettes that are still significant today. Clean, sleek cuts with feminine details are refined yet womanly, and the simple, soft lines that define their look are strong yet subtle. Couture geisha garments and traditional costumes have been reinterpreted with modern design. The robelike wrap, kimono sleeves, mandarin collars and waist-cinching belts all dramatically alter the shape and form of the most basic article. The result is an understated sense of style not to be underestimated.

Thanks to Aphrodite, Athena, and Greek mythology, Hollywood's red carpets have never been without goddesslike gowns. And today, long fluid frocks have never been more en vogue on America's catwalks and sidewalks. Empire waistlines, one-shoulder necklines and gathered gowns drape today's most fashion forward. Maxi dresses and gladiator sandals are modern-day must-haves, topping the list of this season’s trendiest items. Other heavenly accessories borrowed from the gilded gods include braided rope, coin and leaf details

Different Types of Women’s Skirts

Women’s skirts are definitely the best choice for a feminine touch, they are ideal for work or leisure; you can look enticing in them or sophisticated and professional. There is such a wide array of skirts you can choose from this all depends on what impression you want to give to others around you. There are such a variety of patterns and colours to suit your personality and style or to follow trends and fashion.

An important factor to take into account is to find out, which style of skirt will flatter your figure and enhance your feminine assets. You can start by selecting the style of skirt you prefer.

Circle skirts are full skirts and they tend to be rather on the short side, usually made of light fabric in order to create the circle effect. A-line skirts are narrow round the waist and knee-length, slightly flared at the base. Pencil skirts are narrow and straight; these are ideal to show of slim figures. Trouser skirts can be fitted or flared and remind you of trousers with pockets and belt loops. High waist pleated skirts have inverted pleats and give you an A-line silhouette with an extra fashionable look.

Tiered skirts are made from horizontal bands of fabric sewn together to create a flared tier and they usually reach the mid-calf; the fabric they are made from will render them either formal or casual to wear. Mini skirts are the most flattering if you have lovely legs, and amongst the most feminine amongst skirts.

Skirts that come with a bias-cut are made from fabric, which is cut diagonally giving it a flowing, gypsy look about it. Asymmetrical skirts are perfect for evenings out; the hem is longer on one side giving it a particular trendy style.

If you have a rather curvy body you should go for those skirts with a slight flare that reach just below the knee. Choose skirts, which are smooth in the front and fasten in the back. If your hips are wider choose skirts that narrow down towards the bottom and avoid emphasized waistbands, preferring dropped-waist skirts, which will narrow the hip area. Stay away from pleated skirts that start from the waist, which tend to accentuate curves, as they will not stay in place.

Tall women with long legs look great in mid-length skirts, and asymmetrical skirts will enhance long legs. Mini skirts can be worn taking care to match them with flat-heeled shoes.

Petite women should avoid straight skirts such as pencil skirts or slightly flared skirts, like an A-line skirt. The skirt you should choose should be just above the knee or just below it if you are heavier on the torso. A good solution is to wear vertical stripes, which will make you appear taller, while a slit slightly to one side will make your legs look longer. A full-length skirt will also make you appear taller than you really are, just stay clear from skirts with too many details or complicated patterns.

For women with boyish figures, the best skirts to choose are pencil skirts, which add curves to your straight figures, as will tiered skirts, pleated skirts and circle skirts; these will also make you look more feminine.

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