Let’s play DRESS UP!

By Allison McCrory

With quarantining in the rearview mirror, women are once again embracing the fun of going out in style.

"I think a lot of people are still very excited about getting dressed up after COVID," said Laura Belsinger of Bluetique in downtown Pensacola, noting that midi and maxi dresses and skirts are customer favorites.

"Another trend that will be moving forward this spring is side cutouts in dresses," she noted.

Take your pick of colors this spring. Both ultra-bold and soft hues are trending.

"Some of the softer hues for spring are going to be lavender, light blue, ballet pink and yellow," Belsinger said. "However, we will also be seeing the other end of the spectrum as well – bright pinks, neon green and bold blues."

Look for florals and bold prints on the fashion horizon. Silver jewelry is making headway as are cuffs, bangles and stacked bracelets.

While women are dressing up, their beloved, sportier sneakers are sticking around with exposed tread. Ballet flats are a whimsical finishing touch for all of those dresses.

Belt bags, an upscale reinvention of the fanny pack, as well as oversized totes and embellishments such as sequins, fringe and feathers are popular on both clothing and small bags.

Shopping list: There’s red and there’s the fierce statement-making spirit of red, oozing from this coat and its sidekicks. Lilla P ruffle sleeve boatneck top in champagne, $175; Jude Lucia ponte pant in cream, $188; Trina Turk Dia coat in neutral, $498.

Shopping list: Dresses are every woman’s fashion wish with midi and maxi lengths currently leading the way. Embrace the promise of spring in this navy plaid maxi by CK Bradley,