Judging from all the facebook stalking I’ve been doing lately, it is clear that many of you spent this past week soaking up the sun in some tropical location (in a significantly warmer climate) where Tao Cruz was constantly played poolside. Let me guess… you busted out your mini dresses in bold prints, short jean cutoffs and braided espadrilles for an unforgettable spring break and are crying on the inside at having to shove them all back into your closet for at least another month? SAME! Today I wore boots and a puffy vest to class (a pre SB2011 staple) and felt seriously out of my element. I even weighed the pros and cons of wearing a bikini under my clothes to let the spirit live on. Kidding! But seriously, spring break is over and its normal to experience post traumatic outfit stress because swimwear is no longer an acceptable form of clothing. Luckily, I am here to tell you all about WTW this Spring and fill you in on some truly inspiring yet wearable trends that will leave your tropical paradise as a distant fashion memory (for now at least…weather.com claims it will be 79 degrees on Friday!).
Tribal Patterns are SO in this spring. I’ve seen dresses in all shapes and sizes and accessories galore that embody the bright colors and patterns that will make you want to beat a conga drum. This RACHEL Rachel Roy floor length maxi dress is the perfect option for any occasion. Pair it with flip flops for a daytime luncheon or BBQ or add chunky heels and some wooden bangles for a glam nighttime look. Feeling intimidated by bold patterns? Start off slow with a straw clutch or beaded wedges and you’ll be craving more native flair in no time.
Go Nude! With your outfits that is. There’s nothing sexier than a subtle pair of linen shorts against tanned legs or a delicate mini dress. Plus you literally can never go wrong with the elongation powers of a strappy tan wedge. Try and channel the soft sands of a Caribbean beach on a sunny day when pulling off this trend. This just in…I was inspired by my own advice and am currently painting on a nice coat of “au naturale” nail polish as I type this. (Not my smartest idea, but I couldn’t help it!)
I highly suggest bringing back the 70’s florals this spring for a modern twist on a classic. I’m a sucker for a subtle floral pattern on a chiffon material. For the ultimate “throw back” look, add faded jean shorts or extra wide bell-bottoms and wedges to a floral print shirt. You’ll be channeling That 70’s Show in the best possible way and may even get some winks from an Ashton Kutcher look alike. I also love the idea of pairing a floral dress with rugged lace up ankle boots for a bolder, less girlie style.
Not a dress or skirt kind of girl? No problem. Cropped pants are all the rage this spring. Jean…cargo…white…doesn’t matter! Its all about the peek of ankle which suggests your soooo over bootcut and anxiously awaiting cut offs. For a slimmer look go stick to dark denim or black cropped pants with a bright flowing top. Or go for bold white to intensify your tanned ankles. Whatever color or material you choose, be assured cropped pants look great with flat sandals AND heels-now that’s rare. BONUS: No hemming needed!
Now that I’ve shared with you a few amazing trends that will help make your transformation from break to summer much less stressful lets see if we can do something about your pina colada cravings…
Remember: Confidence and a smile are always there when you don’t know WTW!!