Australia
Westfield Group 
To assist, below is concise wrap-up of the most stand out trends for Summer 2008 and Winter 2009, as seen both in the Australian and International fashion shows:
Florals & Prints
You will find a lot of big, bold florals or prints a la Balenciaga, Dolce Gabbana and Prada. The shapes are strong and dramatic. We are not talking 70’s bohemian ie all soft and pretty. Wear your florals and prints with serious statement shoes like platforms, wedges or gladiator heels.
Pointy Toe Stilettos
You want strong shoes to toughen the prettiness. Hint: keep the prints on top of the body. You will not be wearing floral pants. Unless they are Prada. Then you will be forgiven.
Dresses
Buy up on dresses. The little black dress was all over the runways for next winter. You can never have enough. Choose strong dramatic tailored shapes. Say good bye to the smock dress. Au Revoir. It’s been nice knowing you. You want dresses that are figure hugging, that wrap and tie, that drape, that have slits and sharp shapes. You want dresses in bright bold, colours. They can short or to the knee. You can keep wearing your maxi dress (but best not to work or combined with heels).
Velvet and Lace
Remember next winter is about velvet, tailoring and black. It’s about big jewels and minimalist futuristic shapes. Prada showed a collection full of lace. There will be lace everywhere next season. See it, buy it and wear it now.
Shoulder Pads
Invest in blazers with shoulder pads (please don’t faint) that are seriously tailored, though not as extreme as what was.
The Waist
You need to know that the high waist is here to stay. You need to know that a big wide belt is hot hot hot! A cinched in waist continues to be the silhouette of the season.
Sheer Fabric
You want sheer blouses and tops which will work for summer and then into winter.
Fifties Skirts
You need to know that pretty full fifties skirts are perfect for summer. Buy one now in trans seasonal fabric and keep wearing it for months. Wear with tight narrow tops. Too much volume on the top and bottom and you will look like Andre Leon Talley. Bless.
Colours
Go for universally flattering shades of pink, red and orange and wear them all together. Alternatively go for black, choc and a lot of white. Note: not everyone looks good in yellow, ie. Kate Moss, so always ask for a second opinion when purchasing something in this hue. Plus if you are on a budget then stick to classic colours like black, caramel, chocolate, taupe and white as in-expensive items in these shades tend to do a better job of generate a luxurious vibe.
Accessories
In bags invest in clutches and 70’s shoulder bags, a few oversized totes with a little less hardware. Think stealth wealth. Flashy Logo is a no go.. Add colour with shoes, bags, belts and sunglasses. Remember short boots are hot for next winter too.