SPRING REFRESH

By Mindy Shoemaker

As we start putting our heavy winter coats and boots away and begin contemplating what our spring fashions are going to look like, it’s so refreshing to look forward to the bright and energized style trends for this season.

Every year, Pantone picks the colors of the season and this year didn’t disappoint with great pops of beautiful color! Peach Fuzz was announced as the Pantone color of the year which will look great on any red- or light-haired beauties.

Texture and bold patterns are hot this season with sheer materials, tropical palms and florals showing up a lot in clothing and accessories. This year geometric and abstract prints are making a comeback from the 80s and 90s while lace, crochet, and cutwork styles still remain strong. Newer on the scene you will see voluminous shirts, blouses, and sweaters on the sleeves and overall body; these will look great with our tailored pants, skirts, and jeans.

Denim and dress pants styles are changing a little for this season. If we want our outfits to be stylish and current, skinny jeans should be pushed off to the side for now. While you’re at it, place your low rise jeans to the back of your closet as well. In their place will be high rise, light washed jeans with either straight, bootcut, or flair leg openings. These styles go for full length or cropped pants.

Grey and metallic jeans should be hitting the stores soon along with any cream or ivory pants. Pintuck and wide cuffs are another trend we will be seeing this year. Also, you will see very little distressing on our jeans for a sleeker style. Dress pants will need to be well tailored for a more put together look. Cargo jeans and pants will also carryover into the spring/summer season along with patchwork pants. The biggest change in denim this year will be the laser printed denim with all types of patterns.

Shoe trends are a lot of fun this season with square and round-toed true ballerina flats and simple sandals. Small-heeled, slingback kitten heels and bright colored pumps will dress up any outfit along with any double strap square heeled sandal.

Metallic toe caps look great on your flats and, if you’re wearing white, the look for the season is pointy toe mules. Mary Janes in either heels or flats are making a strong comeback. Platforms and trainers continue to be popular, which will look great with the new, elevated sportswear trend this season.

If you’re wanting to add some new trendy pieces to your wardrobe without sacrificing your bank account, accessories are your best bet! Red is a hot color this spring/summer for accessories in shoes, purses, or jewelry for a splash of color. A woven or basket weave purse or clutch is a spring/summer must-have along with metallic purses in silver or chrome. Love the look of a larger purse? Make sure it’s a slouchy, effortless style or a canvas and leather mixed bag.

Layered chains of varying lengths including chokers in your best metal color will help tie in your outfit. Pearls are back this season in a big way. You’ll be seeing them in your typical jewelry pieces as well as on purses and shoes. Chunky cuff bracelets, any floral design earring, and wide cinch belts will pull your outfits from just wearing to styled with little effort. With the sun becoming more prominent, your finishing touch should be a pair of tinted sunglasses before you head outside.