What to Wear this Spring

Spring has sprung!  At least it has in Southern California (sorry East Coast!).  With the return of the sun and warming temps come a whole slew of new trends to freshen up your wardrobe.  Spring is said to be the season of renewal so read on for five fabulous ways to revitalize your closet.

1. Suede, fringe and everything 70’s

You may be tired of hearing it but there’s no getting around it- the 70’s has made its comeback and looks like it plans to stick around through the fall.  You might think of suede as a fabric for cooler weather but in pretty colors and  lightweight cuts it works just as well for Spring.  I love this pink midi skirt by The Outnet’s private label Iris & Ink and these gladiator sandals from Stuart Weitzman are so dope I want to cry a little.  Look out for fringe on everything- jackets, shoes, bags, even tee shirts.  I’m especially feeling this suede jacket by Rebecca Minkoff (bonus: two trends in one!) and these leather flats also by Minkoff (on sale!).   Wear this sleeveless tee by IRO with some denim cutoffs for day or a leather mini for night.  Choose one 70’s inspired piece to wear at a time and pair it with modern extras to avoid looking like you’re headed to a costume party as Stevie Nicks.

2. Pastel blues

Think cool muted blues and lavenders as opposed to Easter eggs or a toddler’s Sunday dress.  I’ll wear this color in tops like this cashmere short sleeved sweater by Enza Costa or this mesh pullover from Rebecca Taylor.  I’ve also got my eye on these T-bar pumps from See by Chloe- the block heel on these lovelies is totally on trend and the sweet vibe can be toughened up with a great pair of distressed jeans.  I like these hues paired with shades in the same color palette for a cool monochromatic look or with other neutrals like white or camel.  For those feeling especially sassy, try pairing pale blue with vibrant red.  This gorgeous (and fabulously priced) coat from H&M would look amazing with these MSGM trousers (on SERIOUS sale).

3. Culottes

I can’t get enough of these wide leg shorts/pants right now.  I know that the word “culottes” evokes images of bad 80’s fashion but today’s iterations have a modern cut and are styled in a way to ensure that no one mistakes you for a housewife from 1985.  I’m into this simple silhouette by Nanette Lepore and this pink pair from H&M.  I’ll wear these with a pointy toe pumps and a blazer for work or happy hour (minus the blazer) and on the weekend with sandals or sneakers.

4. Gingham

The cheery print usually associated with picnics was all over the runways of designers like Diane Von Furstenberg, Altuzarra and Michael Kors.  I’m partial to this wrap dress by DVF- the different size checks on the top and bottom make it interesting.  I also like the retro vibe of these trousers from Zara and this leather trim jacket by Steven Alan.  Like with any trend, wear one gingham piece at a time so people aren’t tempted to sit on you and eat sandwiches.  To counteract the sweetness of this print wear it with edgier pieces like tough heels or a leather jacket.

5. Nude nails

Nude nails are never really out of style but they were seen on the models walking the runways of such designers as Derek Lam and Tracy Reese.  My favorites are Limo Scene by Essie and Naked by Deborah Lippmann.  These colors are almost universally flattering on any skin tone or nail length and go with everything.  Easy to apply for those of us not so gifted at doing our own nails and don’t show chips as much as darker colors will.

If you’re lucky enough to live in a city that isn’t completely covered in snow it’s time to put your boots and scarves away and get you shop on.  If you’re not so lucky, well go shopping anyway- just keep the coats and earmuffs handy for another month or so.

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