Hop to it...the Spring Trends are here!
Angular Heels and Gladiator Sandals
Some shoe trends have emerged this season, one of them being cut-out or very angular, modern looking heels. This is a very fashion forward style and really almost needs to be worn with a dress or skirt to appreciate it. I love these heels from Nine West as I picture them with very tailored pieces like a pencil skirt or sleek jacket. I also think these heels could be worn with a simple sheath dress as that would be a modern touch to such a classic piece.
Another Spring shoe trend, which is a repeat from last year, is the gladiator. This comes in a ton of different styles, heights and colors. I like this trend, but do be aware that any style that wraps or comes up above the ankle, shortens the line of the leg. This, in turn, will shorten you. Therefore, you need to be a bit taller, or your shorts or dress should be a bit shorter in order to show off more leg.
I also tend to like a gladiator style that crisscrosses over the foot, (versus just crossing back and forth), as this design will actually make your feel look smaller. Any design with a bit of a heel will also do the same thing as anything too flat, emphasizes the length of the foot - just fine if you wear a size 7, but not if you wear something bigger!
Ruffles
The biggest trend of this season has been ruffles. I am not a big ruffle person, but I like them in small doses. They can be found on everything from tops, dresses, shoes, sweaters and interesting enough, skirts. I love this skirt from Nordstrom as it's an unexpected spot for a row of ruffles!
Do keep the size and amount of ruffles in proportion to your body. Ruffles that are too big, can overwhelm a small frame. It's also best if the ruffles are in the center of the garment, as this draws the eye to the center, creating a nice, slimming effect on the body, like this dress from Nordstrom. Both of these items incorporate this trend, but not in a way that would make them quickly outdated. They are still classic in their design, fit and silhouette.
Spring Colors
"In" colors also usually define a particular season and this Spring is no exception. Limey/yellow green is very popular this season. This is a hard color for many people to wear by their face. I have found that blondes and anyone with a darker complexion can wear this color. For me, I have incorporated it with a belt and a pair of shoes, however, it is available in anything! Here it is in a t-shirt from The Loft, which they call, 'Sunny Lime'. I love this color because it really pops with all the neutrals such as navy, dark brown and even black.
Some other Spring colors are also repeats from previous seasons, such as cobalt blue and electric green. These are very bold colors and again, either look great or awful by the face. These pop against white and look fabulous just with jeans. Remember, with color, especially a very bright color, less is more.
Bright Handbags
However, have no fear if you would like to add some color, but are a bit afraid or don't know how to do it as it seems that these fun colors have all made their way to the handbag department. I have never seen so many bright, beautiful purses!
I have seen teal, bright pink, yellow - pretty much any color you can imagine. Again, I think just about any color is great with the classic colors of Spring like navy and white, or even just a crisp white shirt and jeans. Do note, that a bright-colored purse isn't as limiting as one might think. For example, I love the yellow purse, (at the right), in the fall with brown and the pink purse is a great pop of color against the blacks and greys of winter. Color is not just for Spring!
Remember, the trends are just that, trends, but they should inspire you to inject some fun, color or strappy sandals into your wardrobe. Only pick the items and colors that work for your body type and personal style. If you have questions on how to do this, then I am here to help. This is what I love to do!
**Gift Certificates are available for Mother's Day and always make a unique, fun and thoughtful gift. Give Mom something that will make her feel special all year long.
Gift certificates make great college graduation gifts, too. Help that grad get ready for or land that new job.