BEAUTY IN BLOOM

You will be feeling as fresh as spring with these fashion trends.

by JOANN RICHTER

photos by CHRISTINA SHILMAN, PAISLEY TREE PHOTOGRAPHY

I

am so excited about the new spring and summer trends in 2022. It’s absolutely a time of emerging from the “living in loungewear” look (like it or not) to a “let’s get dressed … but in our own way” outfits. There are occasions where we want to dress fancy because those times have been deprived of us as of late. However, more times than not, we need to be practical and comfortable while still wanting to make a statement. From work—in your home or at the office—to upcoming vacations, weddings, and family events, here are a few fun features for the season. Wherever you decide to go, have fun mixing and matching for the occasion, creating a look that makes you feel amazing. //

GET ME TO THE GINGHAM  There’s a definite shift in pattern for spring. From the plaids of winter to a pretty check for spring. Some prefer a little, others a lot. However you like to wear yours is up to you! Not only is this peek of pattern perfect for spring, you’ll also see a new length arise: short. Although many of us will eternally love a midi, the hemlines are rising at quick speed. Mix a little sweet gingham with a little sassy mini and add some pockets for good measure, and you have a cool and comfortable look to style for spring.

COLOR INSIDE THE LINES  Nothing catches your attention like a burst of color. Bold brights are here in force and a solid column of your favorite pop is just right for spring. But there are no rules as to how you decide to wear your perfect shade. Go all out or choose a more subtle route by grabbing a bright bag or shoe; you might consider pink or green. They are the top choices for the moment, but a gorgeous red, yellow, or orange can be equally as lovely. Just let your inner happiness shine through.

 Charissa Peterson

LAID BACK LUXURY  Now yes, we will land on the complete opposite end of the color spectrum with our low-key wardrobe staples. There’s something timeless and effortless about pieces that are quiet but interesting. A perfect fit, a subtle stripe, the right jacket, a uniform color palette—that is a statement itself. Although the premise of this style is luxury, we want to be able to do it in a reasonable way. If you look at each piece alone, it can be worn in so many ways. That makes each item a very smart investment.

 BUTTERFLIES ARE FREE Is it time to find your new shape for spring? Who thought it would be a butterfly? These fun, fitted tops come in so many different patterns and colors. Of course, not everybody is looking for a crop top. You can make this trend your own with a breezy, wing style look. Go for the full Y2K revival with a pair of draped, flowy pants, low-slung trousers, or—total throwback—pedal pushers! Find your fun with this by throwing in a chain. You can go big or small. Try a layered mixture or go with one thick strand. Your pick.

 Tailyn Bendewald

THE WONDERS OF WHITE  White is not just for brides this season. Stick with the bright whites for this look, avoiding the range of ivory and cream that you might use for a laid-back style. Of course, I love a head-to-toe white with a totally beach-vibe maxi. Don’t be afraid to go long because maxis are making their return. For a real boss-energy look, go classic with a white trouser and blouse. No matter what you feel about the practicality of white, it is feminine and beautiful, and who doesn’t want to feel angelic?

CROCHET ALL DAY  There are so many options when you choose crochet from full cardigans and ponchos to tanks, camis, and swimsuit cover-ups. Crochet and fringe will always bring a bit of sentimental 70s feel, but it’s great memories for those who were there and a whole new style adventure for those who weren’t. So pair up your crochet detail with a pair of our beloved flares or choose a crochet crop with a flowy wide-leg summer pant. You can’t go wrong because comfort is always in style.

 Rhonda Hilsendeger  ARE THOSE FLOWERS YOU'RE WEARING? It's not a question of “if,” just a question of “how.” How will we be wearing our florals this season? The answer is bold and beautiful. With the trend toward bright colors and big prints, the flower is no exception. For work, a brilliant watercolor floral with a smocked neckline looks pretty and interesting with trousers or under a classic blazer. For more of a leisure outfit, choose a feminine, cottageinterior-inspired bloom. For an evening out, explore some vibrant and exotic, travel-inspired florals. So many options, so many moods!