2008: what we've seen.

Happy New Year readers! It's time for a look back through the past year at the trends we saw. 2008 brought us interesting footwear, dramatic hair statements and new clothing silhouettes.

We said goodbye to demure when the classic Mary Jane was reintroduced with a flair. New styles popped up everywhere- colors and heights ranging from the traditional modest black to vibrant velvets with thick 4 inch heels. Leather boots, from ankle to above the knee, also make the list of top footwear trends. Two-tone strappy heels and peep-toe stacked platforms were introduced for fall, just as the last gladiator sandals were put away.

Hair made a statement as well- short flirty cuts paired with eye-catching accessories. Following the Blair Waldorf-esque trend of the oversized bow headband, clips and bands appeared in almost every style, with lace, bows, and feathers as just the beginning. Bangs were, and are, still going strong, whether swept to the side or covering the forehead.

Blazers and belted-jackets gave a new shape to the body- squared shoulders and narrowed waists. Chunky sweaters were treated the same way, simultaneously comforting and a little slimming at the torso. Leggings and skinny jeans were the common choice for bottoms, a trend no doubt continuing into the new year.

What's coming in 2009? Trendwatchers are seeing asymmetrical silhouettes, more loose-fitting, harem-style pants, shrunken blazers and ballerina-inspired dresses. Happy styling.

-J.N.