After a few false starts, spring has officially sprung. Many of us thought it would never come and had gotten used to planning our outfits around warm and waterproof items. But now it’s officially time to say goodbye to our Heattech T’s and tall boots and welcome what’s new for the season. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, you are not alone. There are a lot of new shapes, styles and colors to choose from. I’ve shared a few of the most wearable and pairable trends that will give a fresh update to any wardrobe. Read on for six trends that are worth a try.
Flare-up: This season it’s time to step away from the slim and skinny and embrace a whole new pant silhouette. Be it the 70s boho trend or just the need for something new, we finally have a choice of wider pant widths. Less exaggerated than bell bottoms, flared pant fit the leg and flare out below the knee. The great thing about this silhouette is that it is often accompanied by a higher waist (good riddance to the muffin top!) and balances wider hips or shoulders. You can pair it with one of this season’s platform sandals for more of a 70s vibe or keep it sophisticated and chic with a pointy-toe pump. (Available online at ASOS.)
Gingham Girl: The past few seasons we’ve been mad for plaid but now we
move past the tartan to embrace a lighter, brighter and more whimsical check option. The new gingham goes well beyond the traditional (and your favorite picnic tablecloth) and is reinterpreted in happy colors, sheer fabrications and exaggerated (and mixed) sizes. Have no fear – it’s also available in sophisticated black and white for those who don’t like to stray too far from a neutral palette. Not sure about this print? Try it on only one half of your body or in an accessory. (Available online at Saks.)
Get in the Game: If there was ever a time to embrace the “athleisure” trend, the time is now. From sophisticated (yet comfortable) jog pants to mesh tops and sweaters to fashionable slip-on sneakers, there’s something for everyone. Rather than sport a head-to-toe look, you’ll want to add no more than one or two athletic touches to each look. Details that give a nod to athletic wear include racing stripes, zipper pulls or drawstring waists. The lightweight sport sweaters (tennis, baseball and so on) are a great transitional item and easily pair back to jeans or a walking short. (Available online at Joe Fresh.)
Pretty in Pastels: Easter may have come and gone, but not its 
cotton-candy colors. Pastels offer a great way to visually ‘lighten up’ for spring and introduce a splash of color into a mostly-neutral wardrobe. To minimize the sweet n’ girly factor, you’ll want to avoid things like ruffles and lace. Instead look for items with clean lines and sharp details. It’s never wrong to pair pastels with other pastels, as the soft and light qualities of these colors will visually link them together. But for an edgier look you can combine a pastel with a bright, accent color or a darker neutral.
Denim Redux: Denim seems to be having a moment – and I for one couldn’t be happier. No longer reserved just for jeans and jackets, both high-end and mass-market designers have used it for everything including tops, skirts, dresses and jumpsuits. Even though blue predominates, you’ll be anything but bored with interesting shapes, ombre washes and distressed details. Note: you’ll still find denim items with an even, darker wash and clean lines which may work well in certain office environments and give even more utility to this wardrobe staple. (Available online at Zara.)
Cute in Culottes: Culottes not only add a trendy touch but they provide a 
great option for those who don’t wear skirts or dresses but want to keep cool. Because it’s easy for these shorter, wider pants to be less-than-flattering, you will want to add a heel to balance the width. The best shoe options will be tonal to your skin to elongate your leg line. To accentuate your waist remember to tuck in your top. Alternatively you can opt for a wider, crop top that ends right at the waistband. This will define the waist and balance the width. By adding a longer necklace you will further streamline your look. (Available online at Vince Camuto.)
No sure what makes sense for you? One of the best tips I give my clients is add only those trends that they would still want to wear long after the season – or the trend – is over.
