Style watch: best trends of the year

As the year comes closer to an end, it's nice to reminisce about a few of the top fashion trends of 2011. Within the year, designers showcased their new collections presenting the audience with innovative ready-to-wear trends.

This year brought along plenty of brights and color blocking that was balanced out with neutrals and whites. Sheerness and lace were also big trends for 2011 as well as the men's white suit that made a comeback.

Although most trends come and go, some stay and become classics.

Women: Color blocking

One of the top spring fashion trends of this year began with brights and color blocking ensembles. Gucci had an amazing turnout this year with their vibrant colors and color blocking pant suits, skirts, crop tops and blazers. The energizing hues were absolutely captivating for the spring season.

Talk about sexy when it comes to sheer blouses and lace. This year, it was about showing some skin under those two kinds of tops. Worn with only a neutral toned or black brassiere, these tops were nearly crossing the line into tacky, but the fabrics create this romantic/sensual look.  It's important to keep the bottoms less flashy, and perhaps a light jacket or blazer can be added to perfect the look.

Oversized blanket coats/ponchos

Now that it's finally nippy but not quite freezing ponchos and blanket-type coats keep women warm without feeling too heavy or bulky. They're something different to wear other than a regular coat and they have a chic hippiesque vibe that styles great with boots, booties, or oxford-type shoes.

Men: White suit

While the black suit is a must for every man, the white suit made a comeback this spring with looks from Dolce and Gabbana and Bottega Veneta. In contrast to the bright color trend, whites and neutrals were also a major trend for men this spring. The suit's white jacket looks great with white jeans as well.

Bright colored skinny trousers or jeans

Men are currently wearing bright- colored pants that make an excellent pair with camel-toned coats or sweaters. It's nice to have some color during the fall/winter season other than black and gray. H&M and Urban Outfitters have a variety of colors to choose from and a fitted series of skinny jeans for every guy.

Cardigans should be a basic element in every guy's closet for their comfort and multi-use as dressy or casual. This is a classic trend that never goes away. The cardigan is a light sweater that can easily be worn under a coat and that can add an instant oomph to a simple t-shirt and jeans look. Topman carries a variety of styles and colors perfect for an upcoming holiday look.

Natalia Aguilar may be reached at prospector@utep.edu