If one thing is certain about the past year, it’s that ambiguity has taken over once-dependable environments. Forever symbolic of prosperity and the American dream, financial and home markets have been completely disrupted by the economic downturn. As a result, monumental shifts have occurred in consumer spending and unrestricted shopping sprees have become a thing of the past.

As always, this changing mindset has been reflected in culture. The dresses from Viktor & Rolf’s Spring 2010 show illustrate this concept, revealing style that is both whimsical and severe. Proving that certainty is never dependable, this minimalist bush from Justin Blyth’s inspiration blog mimics a similar message. The Selby’s latest photo series, featuring Cole Rood Hann’s clothing rack reveals geometric angles that are disruptive to both organization and perceived order.

Singular circles, interestingly, have also been popping up. Peter Jensen’s SS09 shirt invites the eye to linger while Carlo Ban Deroer’s photograph represents the certainty that can be found within nature. This perspective collage from the Jane St. Annual Yard Sale also provides the viewer with a focal point amid a placating environment.

This trend represents a sense of anomaly and shock value, reflecting a new minimalistic mindset that has surfaced after a year of chaos. There’s an unsettling quality that is reflective of the current atmosphere and Americans are looking to reestablish the definition of success.

Written by: Kelsey-Lee LeGassick