Florals are to Spring what animal prints are to Fall—guaranteed every year to be part of the looks of that particular season. These prints never really go out, and can translate from season to season, as with the dark florals that have made a fall/winter appearance this past year.
But what if you aren’t really a floral kind of person? With all of the new trends this year, there is a lot of inspiration for fresh perspectives, unexpected pieces and combinations that are perfect for spring, all without a petal in sight.
Personally, I love how the French wear suede all year round, and this year so should you. The Intermix Asymmetric Suede Fringe Skirt is a combo of two hot trends—fringe and suede—and has incredible movement when you walk. Fabulous. A classic spring shirt, such as the blue and white striped Paige Denim t-shirt, works so well with the skirt, especially when combined with the J.Crew navy wool moto jacket worn around your shoulders, editor style. Rock some fabulous Nicholas Kirkwood Suede Trim Pointy Toe Lace Loafers and a gorgeous pop of color with this cool convertible BEVÉE clutch in Aqua. This bag is a favorite because it converts from a clutch to a shoulder to a crossbody, making it a girl’s best friend. You can mirror the color of your bright bag with one of Rebecca Minkoff’s newest jewelry pieces, the Stone Open Ring.
Music festival season is here, but even if you haven’t got a ticket to Coachella, you can still show some serious boho style. It doesn’t get much better than this Zara Long Fringed Suede Jacket, and it’s the perfect look with some great white jeans for spring. These great fitting Madewell High Riser Skinny Skinny Jeans in Pure White help make this outfit shine, especially when worn with the James Perse Slub Crew that shows another trend: black and white. Be cool and comfy in the Madison Harding Fiona Suede Slides, and champion the local artists that make great stylish pieces here in Seattle. The Alice Noon Bucket Bag by Seattle’s Tiffany Eley, and Portland-based artist Natalie Joy’s one of a kind Necklace #3 can be both be found at The Frye Art Museum Store.
The rumors are true: Bell-bottom denim is back. If you are hesitant, try a dark wash, like these rag & bone Beckett Bell Rivington jeans, then add some height with a comfy but cool summer wedge, like this Marc by Marc Jacobs pair. Incidentally, it was announced last week that the Marc by Marc Jacobs line would be folded into the main Marc Jacobs line, leaving brand designers Luella Bartley and Katie Hillier in the lurch. Now, the two have announced that they will form their own luxury brand, Hillier Bartley, which will launch with a fall 2015 collection of ready-to-wear, bags and accessories. I can’t wait to see this upcoming new label’s designs. Two more trends making reappearance are the fanny pack—remade cool by the hip designer Clare V.—and denim on denim. Mix up the washes and you can wear this funky denim top by Sea, which speaks more of hipster than of farmhand with its black eyelet back. And don’t forget the latest in Fendi furries; their timepieces with a detachable furry detail are whimsical fun.
Mixing prints continues to be big and it is easier than you think. You just need to make certain that the tone of the colors is compatible, or that a color from one pattern is seen in the other. I am in love with the RED by Valentino trench coats that come out each season. This striped version is a super chic piece that is also versatile, and wearing the Milly Graffiti Print Midi Pencil Skirt with it gives it a modern twist. Add the simple yet elegant Theory Kenzly Modern Georgette Top and then wear a neutral shoe. The SJP Diana Patent Pumps and the Alexander Wang Marion Skeletal Sling Shoulder Bag prove that neutrals needn’t be boring. A pair of Amelia Rose Paris Emerald Cut Clear Quartz Earrings is a nice touch of understated glamour.
Finally, nothing speaks of youthfulness quite like gingham, but you needn’t be a youngster to wear it. This spring season it is prevalent in chic hats, bags, tops, skirts, and dresses, like this super cute Dropwaist Gingham Dress from anthropologie. The breezy tie-at-your-waist style makes it the perfect summer dress, especially with jaunty Eric Javits straw fedora. Animal prints are also considered a neutral, meaning you can mix them with your prints. I love these Soludos Zebra Smoking Slippers so very much. My friend Mary Bridget and I were just chatting about the iconic Kenya bag from the 80s, so when I saw Rachel Comey stellar update with the Raffia Kenya Tote, I was psyched. It is such a great summer carryall, on and off the beach. Toss on some Quay My Girl Sunnies and you are good to go.
These are just a few of my favorite trends for the coming season. There are a lot of great pieces to choose from, no matter what your style. Give your spring wardrobe a shot of “youth serum” by embracing, color, pattern and texture that will make your closet flourish. Happy Spring!
