Most things in life are hard to predict for certain, but fashion forecasts are the exception. Fashion lines are designed and executed many months in advance, so we can be sure of what is in store for us, with very few, if any, surprises.

The fashion market was predicted to be affected in a very negative way by all the doom and gloom of the financial markets. The public are being more careful where they spend their hard-earned cash, but most retailers are feeling positive when it comes to sales and revenue.

At the lower end of the scale, Primark are reporting excellent sales, while many people are still in the market for high-end brands and top designers. Despite a tough few years, consumers still want to splash out and enjoy life. After the comfortable loungewear, ‘stay-at-home’ look, we want to get dressed up again! Here are a few examples of what you will be seeing in shops and online this season.

Mini skirts
Hemlines are certainly on the rise and mini is the best way to describe most of them. Perhaps the popular TV series Emily in Paris has been an influence – online retailer ASOS reported that the demand for mini skirts has soared by over a third.

Marks & Spencer said its sequin mini skirts were a star performer at Christmas and they expect demand for this style of skirt to continue into the spring/summer season. A mini skirt is not always the easiest item for many to style or feel comfortable wearing, but pairing the skirt with thick tights is a popular option. Mango have a cute tan faux suede skirt for £19.99, while Boden have a wool mini at £68.

Shoes
Kitten heels, ballet flats and killer chunky high heels can all be styled with a mini skirt, depending on the occasion. The ballet flat is back in a big way – Marks & Spencer have a lovely pair in leopard print for £35. Zara also have a leopard print pair of kitten heels for £59.99. Whistles have a very smart pair of blue and white striped trainers for £80, while John Lewis and River Island offer some great slingback kitten style heels.

Blue jeans
Blue is the colour of the season, from navy to sky blue and every shade in between. Skinny jeans have been eclipsed by an array of different styles; cropped jeans, oversized jeans, and various bootcut designs. Per Una have a lovely high rise in dark denim for £39.50.

A go-to retailer for jeans, Gap may no longer be on our high streets, but you can still shop online and indulge in comfy 1990s style blue jeans for £32. Looser, more generous cuts are often more comfortable.

Blue is generally a very flattering colour, but I’m not sure if I would choose it from head to toe, which is what catwalks are showing. Blue nail polish seems very popular this season and will give an instant spring update. Fingers crossed we will all enjoy blue skies ahead this spring!