For Fashion Stylists the New Year has begun with great gusto and passion.Abound with a smattering of BIG anniversaries, in history and the Art World, which will no doubt be reflected in the upcoming styles for 2012.

How could I not be enthralled with the Picasso Exhibition, which is just in time for the 75^th anniversary of the start of the Spanish Civil War of 1937, which may just be a coincidence but I deem this highly unlikely.  So as to the showing of a certain Oscar De La Renta Resort Collection for 2012, which embodies Picasso-esque, abstract prints and paper origami flat brim hats, with vivid colour combinations and bolero type jackets.

Looking into my fashion crystal ball envisage the donning of tiered skirts and flamenco inspired dresses, together with basque inspired corsetry and luxurious brocade fabrics.

I cannot go past the emerging gothic style, making a comeback due to the 100 year anniversary of the death of Bram Stoker

(April 1912) which, we all remember as the author of the original “Dracula”.   We saw gothic romantic references from Nina Ricci to Lanvin and Prada, not to mention Derek Lam and of course Alexander McQueen.

Another Big historic Anniversary is looming.  On 15 April 2012 it will be the 100year anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic.  A surge of Edwardian inspired fashion pieces I believe will be hitting the racks, as seen on our wonderful Miranda Kerr, in John Galliano’s spring 2012 collection, which featured ultra sheer fabrics, with ruffles, cowl necklines and ladylike headwear.

Lace and creamy neutral textiles will also be huge this years fashion styles, as will pastels (think pastel pinks, corals & minty greens), and more demure silhouettes. Blouses will whisk you away to another time and place with high necklines, pussy bows and frills.

Autumn & Winter Fashion will bring in warmer tones, with seasonal paisleys and embroidery in mustard, ochres, and violets not excluding khakis and grungy lime greens. Kirsten Dunst, Kate Hudson and Florence Welch have all been spotted in this vintage print, take a cue from these lovely ladies and slip on some chic accessories to keep it laid-back and cool or demure and elegant a la Miss Dunst.

Multi-layering and prints abound in cooler months from icy hues to deep cobalt’s and chocolate café tones.  One thing is definitely sure my prediction as a fashion stylist is …  2012 looks to be “YEAR OF THE PRINT!!!!”

Manly, the iconic seaside town of the Northern Beaches is renowned for it’s fish & chips and languishing pines, however there is a stylish sophistication of Manly hiding in it’s lanes and side streets.

Three laps of the local shopping centre (in the middle of the day mind you), ½ hour looking for parking in your more specialised shopping epicentre, does not a Happy Christmas Spirit Make!!!!!

Summer… its well on its way to our shores. 

Bright, Glorious, Heavenly are just a few words to describe this wonderfully warm season.  It can have you running for the razor or gym in a heartbeat…  or in most cases the hottest new swimsuit you can get your sweaty little hands on.  But, and I do not say this without justified self experiences, it can also have you running the opposite direction wishing for the days of cosy layers to swathe those multitude of winter sins in.

I love this opinion peice by Leanne... It's very honest and though provoking. Let me know what you think!

Gwen