While the East coast is currently doing battle with one winter storm after another, here in the Pacific Northwest we are fortunate enough to be enjoying an early spring. Normally, it can be a little difficult to get inspired for spring in the midst of blustery “in like a lion” March weather, but this year is pleasantly different. With that in mind, it is time to discover some spring trends that work right now and into the coming warmer months ahead.
Vanguard Seattle’s theme for the month of March is “A La Guerre,” was inspired in part by the collection of Dr. Madeleine Albright’s famous brooch and pin collection coming to the Bellevue Art Museum from March 13 – June 7, 2015. Dr. Albright’s collection shows how she used her jewelry to express her own political views and personal beliefs throughout her political career. It began in response to being described as an “unparalleled serpent” by Saddam Hussein’s press. Dr. Albright, who was U.S. ambassador to the U.N. at the time, wore a golden snake brooch to her next meeting with Iraqi officials. Sometimes, the pin is mightier than the sword.
In keeping with this theme, I am inspired to take on the look of the weekend warrior. While weekdays are filled with work, school and other commitments that put us on autopilot regarding our attire, the weekend is a time to express yourself. Take advantage of the spring weather and discover some of spring’s cool trends, including colored suede, 70s-inspired pieces and larger-than-life animal prints.
If you are headed out to grab some cocktails with friends, listen to some music, or go dancing, these RtA Leather Ripped Skinny Pants are perfectly deconstructed and a sleek twist on distressed denim. Larger-than-life animal prints were big on the spring runway, and this Saint Laurent Zebra print tee makes a powerful statement. The cool, white, strappy Alexander Wang Antonio Sandals keep the continuity of black and white going, and so does the amazing Alexander McQueen studded De Manta Clutch. Tibi’s Arty Thread Embroidered Jacket with its with colorful embroidery, beading and fringe detail gives the look a boho-chic feel, perfect with some added glam from the Dior “ultradior” earring cuffs. Complete this look with the amazing Villasana Taxco Sterling Warrior Head Brooch by Mexican Taxco master silversmith Alfredo Villasana.
If your weekend escapades are on the tamer side— say, brunch at a friend’s place—you can still be fierce and feminine as well. Pair this cheeky print Olympia Le-Tan Dress with a pair of chunky-heeled Loeffler Randall Luz Tassel Sandals in sexy snakeskin. A pop-of-color clutch by Jason Wu is the perfect, sunny addition, and mirrors those pretty tulips you are carrying for the hostess. Page Denim’s Silvie suede and leather jacket in a neutral is a good outerwear piece that complements the rest of the look. I am completely obsessed with the Takara Design jewelry, in particular the open ended Tidal Cuffs with cool tassels. The perfect brooch for this look is a simple gold Oscar de la Renta tulip.
Got some fabulous high-brow event scheduled in your weekend plans, like a trip to the opera, museum or theatre? Florals on a dark background, like this Erdem Floral Jersey Yael Skirt are on point for spring, especially when paired with another trend, gingham. This time gingham takes on a more sophisticated air with Dolce & Gabbana’s T-Strap Pumps, and I couldn’t pass up including this über ladylike handbag, also by Dolce & Gabbana. The high neckline has also been all over the spring runways, perhaps as an answer to the sheer fabric that is so prevalent now. This Zara top is a stunning example of the trend in action and would be beautiful paired with the Glint Tuxedo Shrug jacket. The little AgnesandCora embroidered butterfly brooch resting on your tuxedo lapel speaks more of peace than of war.
I have to say I was more than a little incensed at J.Crew’s latest catalog, which has added one of those dreadful “how to dress for your age” sections. I am fairly sure that as an adult, I will be the one to decide what is best for me to wear. After all, isn’t that one of the perks of being a grownup? Which brings me to the shorts, which are often relegated to the younger set. I love and would wear this Parker jumpsuit, with its sophisticated long sleeves but short legs, made even cooler with a pair of the Stuart Weitzman Backview Sandals. A cross between a boot and a shoe, this tall gladiator is the perfect weekend warrior look. Add a pop-art Liebeskind Beau Satchel bag in snake-embossed, zippy stripes, and this Siamese Figural Warrior Brooch in Sterling Silver once again nods to Dr. Albright.
No matter what your plans are for the weekend, be fierce, have fun, and make sure your look reflects your own unique style put together by you, not a list. Warriors make their own rules.