Fashion's Spring Flings

Spring is coming! I feel it in the air as we are teased by temperatures reaching upwards of 45 degrees. A few days here and a few days there get me pumped and ready to bring out some of those items in my closet that have been laying dormant the last few months, just waiting to be paired with the lush greens and pastels of budding spring.

I recently received my latest issue of People StyleWatch, which included a list of "10 Spring Must-Haves!" I thought it may prove fun and beneficial to share it with my readers along with my reactions and comments. So, let's dive right in!

#1 on the list is Bright Colors! At first, I was slightly taken aback by the vivid hues of orange and fuchsia that invaded my retinas as I turned the page of my magazine. I scanned the pages, hoping to find something that struck me or could complement my color palette. I initially came up empty handed, but breathed a sigh of relief when I turned the page and was greeted by deep (yet still vibrant) greens and blues. Such colors are much more personally palatable. Nevertheless, if you are a bit wary of donning an outstanding top or an eyepopping shirt dress, have no fear. Amy Salinger, a fashion expert whom I fancy and who's blog I follow, says, "If you are overwhelmed by the shade or feel that it washes you out, choose accent pieces like a purse or jewelry to stay on trend." Accessorizing boldly is easy and oftentimes more comfortable for those who's tastes are otherwise not quite as loud.

Secondly, spring is asking for Thick Heels. They maintain the polished look while adding a bit more stability. Consequently, while increasing the shoe's versatility, People StyleWatch says they "can go to the office or out to a party."  I have no complaints here!




Stripes make the list next, but in so doing widens its traditionally understood scope by mixing unexpected colors, direction, and styling. Generally, I try to stay away from stripes. My boxy/pear-like shape does not lend itself well to them, especially not wide ones. Nevertheless, a few striped pieces have infiltrated my wardrobe, but of the narrow, tightly stacked or vertical variety. The big appeal this spring is that you can incorporate the aforementioned bright colors with this style option and kill two birds with one stone. Admittedly, it is rather difficult for your mood to remain unaffected when wearing bright coral stripes paired with pink ones or a flirty multicolored skirt.

Up next, Envelope Bags! Now, I am torn about this trend. I think envelope bags are exceedingly chic and fun. However, I am a resourceful woman, and an envelope bag just won't carry what I deem necessary to cart around with me on a daily basis. So, I could see how they would be great for an outing, but on a daily basis, they're not practical for me. Nevertheless, being that they are in and of themselves an accessory, they do offer one the opportunity to incorporate other popular trends in a more understated way, such as bright colors and/or animal prints. Take this silvery reptiled-skinned bag! It would complement just about any outfit and lend it something a little extra due to its exotic nature. Another great feature of many of the envelope bags on the market is that they are not just clutches. They often have a chain strap concealed inside of them that you can implement if you should so desire, which I think just adds to their great appeal. 

I cannot tell you how happy I was when I got to #5, Sleeveless Jackets. If you remember, in "Last Week in Review," I gushed about a fantastic purchase I made with my mother-in-law at Dress Barn. And what did it include? A sleeveless jacket! I cannot wait for warmer weather so I can give mine a go. They can be rather feminine and versatile; they can dress something up or bring it down a notch. They can give off a flirty vibe or a "Let's get down to business," one. Pictured here, Nicole Richie wears a Winter Kate sleeveless jacket. I think she looks great! Due to the military styling, black color, and complementary accessories (bag & sunglasses), her look is well put together. She looks cool and comfortable. I like it!

Somewhat eluded to previously when discussing envelope bags, Snakeskin is being heralded as a popular trend for spring. You can prepare to see it on bags, dresses, scarves, and tops - even on shoes. It adds a unique texture to one's overall look. And, in an "easy, light-weight fabric, a snake print is extra flattering," says People StyleWatch. Just today, I ran into a woman with a fabulous snakeskin printed scarf; indeed, I was envious. I personally do not own anything in this category, but I am more than willing to look. :)

Also hugely popular as we head into a slightly warmer climate is the color White. Celebrities are flocking to this trend and igniting the red carpet while doing so. Like snakeskin and bright colors, you can incorporate whites however you desire.Thankfully, it effortlessly goes with everything, so being fashionable in this way is a no-brainer.

There are two trends that can stand independently or simultaneously if you wish - Peasant Blouses & Floral Prints. Now, I have noticed these two styles creeping in ever so steadily within the last year or so. Peasant blouses are so complimentary to spring due to their airy, comfortable nature. Similarly, floral prints only make sense to couple with spring as mother nature is itself budding with new life. I can certainly see their appeal, but peasant blouses typically do not work with my frame, nor do florals particularly tickle my fancy. But that's what great about popular fashion. You can take it or leave it! If you can rock it, by all means, go for it!

And finally, we end our journey through fashion's spring flings with Bright Gold. Apparently, bold, yellow gold chains are all the rage, "a key accent piece - and they go with everything!" (People StyleWatch). Typically worn as a bracelet or necklace, this trend seeks to bring a bit of luxe or glamor to an otherwise ordinary outfit. As with other styling options, you can't really mess this one up. Either you wear it, or you don't! Personally, I don't have the propensity to wear much yellow gold; I prefer white gold, in which my engagement and wedding bands are cast. It correlates with my previous post, "What Colors to Wear," and the silver and gold test. My natural features pair better with silver than with yellow gold. Nevertheless, yellow gold certainly retains its merit, and I will don a piece or two once in a while. 

So, there you have it! "10 Spring Must-Haves!" Have I inspired you to go shopping? I'd love to see what you buy. I smiled last night as a dear friend showed off her brand new Abercrombie blazer. And last week, I forcibly photoed my brother in his Sunday best, praising him for how great he looked in his ensemble. He told me the only way I can post the picture is if I block out his face. So, Tim, this is me holding up my part of the bargain. I hope you like the alterations.

Readers, I hope springtime treats you well no matter you are wearing. Every year, along with its arrival, it as if everyone gets a sense of re-creation and new birth. So, I wish you all a wonderful season of personal growth in whatever mode you choose to ascend. As my boss has been frequently heard saying recently, "The sky is the limit!"