Think bright colors, figure-flattering jackets and a cute printed dress in this season of transitions. Look inside to see some of this spring’s hot touches.
It’s been a long, snowy winter that didn’t allow much room for fashion statements. So bring on Spring 2011! It’s all about key wardrobe pieces that play up your fun, flirty, feminine side.
First, think bright colors. Orange, blue and green are great for tops, and even ladies who aren’t used to wearing such bold colors should give them a try. Transition slowly, if you wish, by adding a bright clutch or hobo bag to your favorite jeans and tee outfit. Next, try a blouse in one of these colors. The great thing about wearing a bold color is that the rest of the outfit can be completely minimal. For a flirty look, pick your favorite pair of jeans (skinny, tapered or bootcut), add a coral, ruffled top, and you’re ready for a night out.
This year, designers have even created colorful heels and ballet flats. Pair them with jeans and a plain tee. For a night out, break out your LBD (little black dress) and grab a colorful pair of peep toes or sandals. Since the weather’s warming up, tights aren’t necessary.
Treat yourself to a new coat or jacket. Every woman should have a trench coat. They’re figure-flattering, appropriate for casual or business settings and functional in rain or wind. If you’re looking for something a little more edgy, think motorcycle jacket, or cropped jacket with frayed edges, in camel, green or deep brown. Keep it simple and forego the studs. Or try a cropped jacket or boyfriend cut blazer.
If you have a curvy figure, you may want to avoid cropped styles. Instead, choose a jacket that hits right below the hip. Utility jackets and blazers flatter women of all sizes and come in an assortment of colors, with great details like ruffles or belts. Don’t be afraid to experiment! You’ll never discover new styles to love, if you don’t try them on.
Another spring essential is a printed dress, whether floral, watercolor or striped. If you like to dress more conservatively, pick a longer, more fitted, sheath style. If you prefer casual, choose a flowing, above-the-knee dress. For a flirty look, go shorter with ruffled detail.
To play up your printed dress, add color-coordinated strappy heels or peep-toe sandals. Pair with a romantic, simple hairstyle, such a as side swept curled pony or a messy bun. For a more casual everyday look, add a cardigan or sweater with playful ballet flats or a neutral-colored handbag. If you have a boyish figure, take two slim belts and cinch them around your sweater.
Bottom pieces are all about personal preference. You should have a favorite pair of denim that looks great dressed up or down. Don’t buy jeans that are just average; buy the denim that you love and that flatters your figure. Sometimes great denim comes with an unflattering price tag, but if there’s one item on which to splurge, it’s denim. Unless you’re in elementary school, avoid bright-colored pants.
Denim fashions to leave behind are distressed, slashed and cuffed styles. Spring is all about achieving a polished look, so stick to your straight cuts, boot cuts and skinnies. Try a pair of khakis, the everyday pant that’s making a comeback this season. For the office, pair your khakis with a camisole and floral cardigan. For a casual day, try them with a bold-colored top and a pair of wedges. For a dinner date, pair sleek khakis with a silk top and great open-toe shoes. After you’ve chosen some bottom pieces, perfect them by visiting a tailor or seamstress. Great bottoms, whether denim, khaki or black trousers, provide you with a versatile foundation.
Spring is the season of transition. Why not allow your personal style to change up as well? Add some great key pieces that make your wardrobe more versatile. Treat yourself to a chic bag. Let this spring be your “coming out” season, a time for showing your flirty, fun, feminine side.
Makeup by Betsy Branca, Hair by Jamie Herbert. Special thanks to Barrington Flower Shop and Coach House Drygoods for providing the lovely hydrangea blossoms and tin vases pictured here.
Click the thumbnails below to view this spring’s fashion trends!