It’s totally tempting to buy into the latest trends - after all, every blog, magazine, and style site tells us we MUST have them. While these might not qualify as ‘musts’, here are 10 spring trends actually worth trying out (for reals) with real life ways to wear each.
For Sport
Are you more high-energy than high-maintenance? Tomboys can take their cue from the runways at Alexander Wang and Helmut Lang by pairing their athletic separates with heels offering a fresh and easy take on workout wear.
Try: Pencil Skirt, $49, Canvas Loafer Pump, $49, Joe Fresh
RELATED: Designer Fashion on a Budget: 10 Diffusion Lines to Know
All that Jazz
With designers paying homage to the roaring twenties, and a blockbuster version of The Great Gatsby set to hit the big screen this fall, get ready to experience a jazz-age revival. Look for fringe, feathers, drop-waists and beaded details to instantly update all of your evening looks. Resist the urge to go full-out flapper; pick a stand-out piece like a beaded dress, swingy fringed bag, or long, beaded necklace to try out the trend without looking costumey.
Try: Sparkle Hour Dress, $288, French Connection
Clutch Control
While we love clutches for their aesthetic appeal, they can be a real pain to carry and never seem to hold quite enough. Luckily, designers took a practical turn for spring by adding handles to clutches and designing luxe-looking sleeves for our Playbooks, iPads, and other tablets.
Try: MICHAEL Michael Kors MacBook Air Sleeve, $130, Michael Kors
RELATED: This vs. That: Budget Friendly or Designer Fashions?
Busy-ness
Head-to-toe florals are a tough sell; how do you avoid looking like Maria von Trapp had her way with you, a pair of scissors and an old pair of curtains? Pick a well-tailored top and bottom by a designer you trust, in a print you love. For a safer bet, choose a long-sleeve printed dress in a streamlined silhouette. Easy, pajeesy.
Try: Mary Katrantzou for Topshop Dress, $360, Topshop (at Yorkdale this March)
Mad (Wo)Men
From Balenciaga to Jason Wu to DVF, the spring runways were loaded with Betty Draper-esque cinched waists, classic shifts, and bow-tied accents. Banana Republic’s latest Mad Men Collection (available March 1) is made up of wearable pieces to keep you looking polished, ladylike and thoroughly modern throughout your work week.
Try: Mad Men for Banana Republic, available March 1, Banana Republic
RELATED: Star Style: Mixing High & Low Fashion
Pastel Parade
So much less intimidating than last season’s bold brights, the new macaroon pastels let you add colour to your wardrobe whether you decide to colour-block or pick one solid accent. Choose modern cuts and minimal details over girly ruffles so the sweetness doesn’t totally take over.
Try: Double-Breasted Blazer, $129, Jacob
To the Point
The shape of toes and heels change so quickly it’s often hard to keep up. This season, the pointy-toed pump is where it’s at and, with its simple silhouette, is easy to find at every price point. An ankle-strap makes the pump look especially current.
Try: Pointy-Toed Pump, JW Anderson for ALDO RISE, $155, available at aldoshoes.com and select stores March 8
RELATED: Awesomely Awkward Style Photos
Under the Sea
The ocean’s always called to creative types, giving endless inspiration to those seeking beauty in its depths. Oceanic elements like shells, coral and fish-scale motifs covered top collections this spring from Chanel to Armani Privé to Alexander McQueen. A pretty starfish ring is a beautiful (and inexpensive way) to explore the deep blue.
Try: Metal Starfish Ring, $5, H&M
Hip Check
The penchant for peplum accents started this fall and now everyone’s on the bandwagon. Though some of the over exaggerated peplum dresses aren’t universally flattering, a subtle sleeveless tank (like this one from RW & CO.), worn with straight legged trousers, will give you the illusion of a super tiny waist.
Try: Peplum Shirt, $38, RW & CO.
RELATED: Fashion Week Fever! Our Favourite Fall/Winter 2012 Looks
Wild Women Do
Rather than animal prints (think leopard spots and python prints), designers flocked instead to full-fledged animal imagery for spring. Lest you be tempted by those howling wolf tees at your local flea market, opt instead for subtle bird prints which manage to look more sophisticated than say, a kitty-cat or pony. Yay or neigh?
Try: Bird-Print Pleated Blouse, $35, Smart Set
Connect with iVillage.ca:
37 comments