There is nothing like the start of a new season. While spring is at the tip of our fingers, what better way to pass the time than daydreaming about what new styles and colors are quickly approaching? My mantra for spring 2012 is simple and fun: bright, bold and beautiful. With a quick look at what the upcoming season has to offer, you can make any fashion statement you would like, and have fun doing so.
The first and most important thing a person needs to know are what colors are spring’s hottest. Nothing says bright and bold like the color orange. The fashion magazines and blogs are seeping with the tasteful tangerine color. So when you are out shopping for that first shirt for spring, make it an orange one. For me, spring is all about feeling light and care free. If you’re not a fan of the bright colors, there’s no need to worry, pastels are making a comeback with a palette of nudes, sea greens and blush pinks.
Fall fashion was all about a variety of tribal inspired trends and patterns which evoked multiple and outrageously fun styles, which fortunately will carry over into spring. Think whimsical patterns this season. From feathers to birds and fruits, pair any of these prints with pastels, and the elegant and breezy spring look is yours.
Some other recurring trends from fall are:
Blacks and whites: Although spring is all about bright colors with hints of pastels, a basic black or white piece never goes out of style. The two are simply timeless and classical.
Stripes: Whether horizontal or vertical you can never go wrong. Stripes are not only taking over clothes but accessories too. Be on the lookout for striped handbags and shoes. I’m seeing a lot of preppy-inspired stripes of nautical navy paired with beige pants and red accessories. Striped shirts or sweaters with little decals such as gold buttons or metallic accessories really pull the pieces together giving the preppy look a little edge.
Color blocking: This is my personal favorite trend. It’s time to whip out your color wheel and start matching. After you have bought that orange shirt or bottom, pair it with something purple or a whimsy print. I know it sounds crazy, but color blocking can be extremely invigorating and may even bring out a side of you that you never knew existed! Step out of your comfort zone and make a bold statement by mixing solid colors or patterned prints. I also recommend pairing fuchsia with turquoise, blue with yellow, and plum with tangerine.
This spring is taking a turn back to femininity, something we haven’t seen in a couple of seasons! Past fashion trends had more of a masculine feel with boyfriend cut jeans and army prints, where as this spring, we are expecting flowing dresses, cocoon shapes and hourglass figures. Floral, ethnic and artist-inspired styles are what make up this spring. Layer with lace, crochet and sheer fashions to appease your romantic side.
Other styles you should not miss out on include one sleeved shirts, draping and folded fabrics, and tailored, fitted looks.
Spring is right around the corner and will sneak up on us before we know it! Start basic and think colors and prints. It’s time to exercise those wallets and get the must have looks of the season!
Lauren DiCrecchio is a fifth-year student majoring in liberal studies with minors in journalism and Spanish. She can be reached at LD658004@wcupa.edu.