European Fashion Trend Watch- focus on legs
I wanted to share some of the fashion trends for women I saw all over the Netherlands and during my short stay in London. I was in several cities in NL during my nearly month-long stay: Almere, Den Haag (The Hague), Enschede, Baarn, Soest, Amsterdam, Lelystad. The trend was very consistent. I saw the same thing in central London, Chiswick, and Kew.

It's all about leggings, tights, and knee socks.
Not the awful "I'm going to wear leggings instead of pants" trend from the last 80's and early 90's, but something very fun and wearable for every age group.

Not only were they everywhere, they were on all ages from age 3 to 65. The looks ranged from fun, playful, elegant, practical (you can ride a bike in a dress!) , artistic, edgy, basic, and sporty.

The most common pairing (especially in the Netherlands) was Capri-length or just-below-the-knee length leggings with a dress or tunic that was just above the knee, so your rear is covered. This proved flattering on most people.
If you have heavier legs, keep the leggings plain. If you are like me and have little skinny bird legs, try pattern like horizontal stripes or textures. If you have thick ankles, try Capri-length with buttons on the hem, shirring, a tiny ruffle, etc. This draws the eye up to toward the knee.
If you have heavier thighs, try a below the knee dress and ankle length leggings. If you are shorter than average, try the same or similar color legging as the dress to create a longer line.

Here are the reasons I love them and ended up buying several pairs of both below the knee, Capri and ankle length leggings and tights while I was on my trip:

• Excellent summer wear in a cool to temperate climate such as northern Europe or the northwest United States. You still can wear your summer dress or skirt when it's only 69 F and overcast outside.
• They firm up your figure provided you are wearing the correct size. Make sure the waist fits!
  
• They are a great accessory for women of a certain age since they hide those flaws like unsightly veins and uneven skin color.
• They add visual weight to some dress styles as well as an extra punch of color or pattern to a plain dress.
  

In short, I'm very glad to see the trend come back around in its new and improved form!
Tot ziens,
~Reb

PS: Standout trend color: Bright Teal Green!