The five-minute call is announced as people scramble to their designated seats. The lights dim and then flash back on; perfectly in-sync with the booming music as the first model appears on the catwalk. The front rows are occupied by posh industry personnel dressed to the nines in the season's hottest Canadian designer duds. They give the odd head nod and make note of key pieces in their look books. Amongst the seats reserved for buyers, vendors, the media and the designer's guests I spot two important names; Elle Canada and Flare Magazine and can't help but feel a little overwhelmed by the exciting buzz around me. Not to mention- I got to see the famous Fashion Television set where Jeanie Becker herself, interviews the industry's finest!

This was my second year attending L'Oreal Fashion Week in the heart of downtown Toronto-Nathan Phillips Square. Not only did I get to view the Fanshawe Fashion Design graduate students collections, but I was also able to view the Spring/Summer '09 collections of the new and upcoming designer Janet Hill and designer Eugenia, all of which were fabulous, and left me wishing for summer weather before the first snow fall.

After following up with some trend reports, perusing some free trade papers ( I scooped up from L'Oreal) and reviewing the L'Oreal Fashion Week collections online, I've gathered up a small list of key trends.

Without delay, here‘s a sneak preview of what Spring/Summer '09 fashions have in store for us.

Asymmetric shoulder lines made a bold mark in the collections of several designers such as David Dixon and “Project Runway Canada's” Carlie Wong. The single bare shoulder was a popular feature for not only dresses, but tops and bathing suits alike. Accenting these one shoulder garments were lots of layered ruffle detailing, flapper style fringe, and oversized bows and flowers. This feature is subtly sexy yet sophisticated and looks equally as stunning on a casual top as it is on an after-five dress.

Chunky costume jewellery is next season's loudest statement making accessory. Bobbles, geometric shaped beads, charms, ribbons, chains, mixed metals and stones-basically anything goes for this trend. Remember, the bigger, the flashier, and the wackier the better! This is a cost efficient way to update anything you already own, and better yet, you can wear this trend for Fall/Winter too! H&M is already selling these empowering accessories starting from $5.50 and up. Accent your attire with a piece of chunky character jewellery and you'll make a strong entrance and unforgettable exit wherever you go.

When I mention MC Hammer what's the first thing that comes to mind? I bet his famous billowing pants paint a vivid visual in your head, along with his trademark dance grooves. Well believe it or not, harem pants made the list as they appeared on almost every runway at Fashion Week worldwide. These silky “hammer pants” were shown coordinated with belts, fitted tops and chic pumps for a balanced look.

As we make our way into another long and cold winter, remember that spring fashions are just around the corner. Now that you've had a sneak preview for what's to come, keep an eye out for these key trends for Spring/Summer ‘09.