By Krista Lyons, AliveTampaBay Correspondent
“Florals, for spring? Groundbreaking.” —Miranda Priestly (The Devil Wears Prada)
You are heading to work, or perhaps you are on your way to a get-together in a garden. No matter where you are going, you are likely to notice one thing: spring flowers are in full bloom and the season of new beginnings is here.
Where winter’s styles were functional and fit, spring brings flirty and fun looks that everyone can enjoy. With this season’s picks, you will need to make sure to include your closet in your spring cleaning to-do list.
Something New Up Your Sleeve
This season, spice up your life with statement sleeves. A top with statement sleeves can dress up or dress down any outfit, and can bring just the right amount of drama. If you are heading to work, opt for a slightly less dramatic sleeve. For a night out, go big or go home.
“The statement sleeve is one of my absolute favorites for Spring 2017,” says Elaine Sweeney, managing director of STYLEdge Fashion. “Fresh details in sleeve construction make this trend a focal point for the season that I absolutely adore. You will be seeing blouse sleeves with poufs, flounces, pleating and billowing shapes that will be fun to wear and feel glamorous.”
Picnic Perfect
When I think of gingham, I picture blue skies and picnic baskets. It is a pattern that is more fresh than springtime strawberries, and this year, the pattern is making its way into our closets.
“I’m excited to see even more gingham,” says Carly Heitlinger, founder of The College Prepster. “It was pretty big last year and I think it’s going to be even bigger this year.”
A comfy, button-down gingham shirt is one way to rock this prized pattern. For brunch with the girls or even a date night, gingham skirts with a tapered top are a perfect combination. Gingham can work well in straight skirts as well as pleated skirts, and will quickly become your go-to pattern for spending the day outside.
Fearless and Feminine
Spring is a celebration of new life, and inherently, femininity. Spring fashion is the perfect way to join the jubilee and flaunt your femininity. Not only are the colors and patterns softer this season, but they stand out from winter and summer wear and bring a little more “zen” to the season as a whole. Pair a light pink skirt with a white top, or opt for a light pink cotton dress to bring out your inner goddess. You can also incorporate florals with light, sheer materials to add a little pop of pattern and comfort to your wardrobe.
“Spring trends are always more colorful and evoke emotions of joy and happiness, they did not disappoint this season,” says Patty Soltis, managing partner of STYLEdge Fashion. “We saw florals and stripes make a return on a larger scale with bold graphic prints. The focus on color is with the sweetness and strength of pink and new beginnings with white head to toe.”
Even better: you can sport your softer side with these graphic prints and light shades at work or for a day of fun. Accessorizing more feminine styles with bolder pieces can add a little edge to the overall look.
“For accessories, look for a statement necklace and don a bootie to step through the season,” says Soltis. “Carry it all in your hands free handbag with a choice of a messenger bag, backpack or sophisticated belt bag.”
Another fabulous accessory is the over-the-hair scarf. This look is perfect with a gauzy, floral scarf, and works whether you are hiding a bad-hair day or trying to keep a good one from the effect of the car window. It can also add a splash of classic style to newer trends.
Pair any look with a great pair of sunglasses and you will be ready to enjoy everything that the spring season has to offer.
For more spring fashion tips, visit STYLEdgefashion.com and thecollegeprepster.com.
