By Melissa Moylan

‘Tis the time for lists isn’t it? And so here’s one packed with the most influential Spring 12 runway key items. Over the past several weeks I’ve been posting reports on Fashion Snoops, with a grand total of OVER 100 KEY ITEMS on the site right now (what are you waiting for?!). Here’s where I give my personal view on the movers and shakers that shaped the season.

#1 MOVE OVER MAXI, THESE ARE ASYMMETRIC TIMES!

Sure there are still maxis, and columns and midis. But the big news in hemlines this season is asymmetric hems, found upon dresses and skirts. Another alternative is the handkerchief hem.

#2 CROP THIS WAY

#3 BOXY LADY

I’ve mentioned boxy or pop over tops early on in the season. In knit or woven styles, boxy shapes provide one of the newest shape directions in tops.

Pencil skirts continue forward as a must-have for Spring 12. Peplumsserve as the ultimate update to the pencil, while peplum tops are also fair game. And if you’re REALLY forward, check out the peplum pants at Dries Van Noten.

#6 FLIRTING WITH THE FIFTIES

As one of the season’s most popular theme expressions, Mid Century Modern aka the 50s, features key items like the fit n flare dress and full skirt. Hot pants, THE short of the season, are commonly factored in to ladylike looks, even if they’re borrowed from another decade.

#7 CUT IT OUT

#8 SOMETHING SHEER

If this is starting to sound familiar, you may have followed my blogs during runway season in which NY, London, Milan and Paris all featured sheer garments. Two of the most relevant applications include sheer dresses and skirts, which were first featured in Givenchy’s Spring 11 collection. Fast forward one year, and sheer tops and pants are also considered.

#9 PUMP UP THE VOLUME