11 Style Trends to Love—and Hate—in 2012

The beginning of each year ushers in a wave of new trends, and myriad lists detailing them. It’s enough to make you want to chuck your entire wardrobe (out with the maxidress! In with the Bermuda shorts!), repaint your house, and dye your hair nine different colors in an effort to keep up. Some of the trends for 2012 are good; others not so much. Here’s what to look forward to—and what you should be dreading.

Bermuda shorts: Yes, they’re back. And with the Jersey shore boardwalk rife with denim cutoffs and Snooki-like hot pants, it couldn’t come at a better time.

Rounded shoulders: Try it, but be cautious. The sculpted, cocoon-like coats are reminiscent of classic Dior and Balenciaga designs, but when worn wrong, you could look like a football player

Tangerine: Wear it, decorate with it, love it. The fiery red-orange “Tangerine Tango” is Pantone’s pick for color of the year, and the saturated citrus hue was all over spring 2012 runways. For those used to eggshell walls, though, think before you repaint your living room this color: It’s best in small pops.

Lived-in homes: Forget catalogs and matching sets from Restoration Hardware: The best homes are those that mix many styles, and aren’t too perfect. If it looks like an interior designer had a hand in perfecting your home, you’ve missed the mark.

Super-short hair: A cropped pixie is the ultimate style-setter look. But leave The Girl With a Dragon Tattoo futuristic ‘do for the silver screen.

Pastels: On the other end of the color spectrum are the muted, Easter-candy shades like seashell pink, soft green, light blue. Wear the color in sophisticated silhouettes, though, or risk looking too precious.

Wallpaper: It’s not your grandmother’s wallpaper. Bold, geometric patterns are the easiest way to energize a room. Always a wallpaper fan, I couldn’t be more excited about this home design trend.

Camouflage: Unless you’re going to war, don’t even try it.

Mesh: Athletic details are big this season. This fabric, though, needs to stay in the gym and off the runway.

Drop-waist: We love the flapper-era look, but remember to make it modern with updated accessories. A long strand of pearls and you’ll look like you’re wearing a Halloween costume.

Bra tops as shirts: I blame Lady Gaga.