Spring and summer fashions are bursting in color, originality
Kristi Houk, Contributor
Published On: 03/24/2008
No, it’s not just wishful thinking…spring is finally here and in terms of fashion, this means time to stow away those cardigans, leg-warmers and double knit scarves. For a few months anyway, we can forget about layering and fingerless gloves. Instead, prepare for the laid-back, free spiritedness of the spring/summer fashion season, and what a mad, mad season it will be. Here’s a look at what’s ahead:
As best I can tell, there seems to be three major fashion attitudes prevalent for spring—the demure, the artistically bold, or some creative melding of the two.
For starters, it’s all about the shift dress. You’re guaranteed to see these retro, short, high-waisted dresses everywhere from high-end department stores to more economical spots such as Target. These simple frocks are extremely versatile. Casually, they look great with a pair of sandals or metallic flats. For a dressier mode, pair with sleek open-toed heels. Speaking of simplicity, expect lots of loose, free-flowing tank tops in gauzy fabrics such as chiffon and silk. For the ultra-feminine, look for ruffles galore.
These sheer, lightweight garments are perfect for those endlessly balmy days of summer. It’s obvious to equate bold, floral patterns with spring fashion. And while this season still maintains its share of all things in bloom, the options prove more diverse this go round. For those inclined to the subtler side of flowery chic, choose a more subdued pattern of small buds over the in-your-face wallop of cabbage sized roses. Also, look for abstract, artistic versions of the saturated floral motif.
Florals aren’t the only pattern governing the season. Forever combined with the boring, predictable nautical theme, stripes rule yet again, only this time with a modern twist. No longer stuck in the red, white and blue theme, now the updated version of the stripe unleashes the pairing of contrasting vertical and horizontal lines creating a joyous, dizzying effect. Tired of the same old jailbird black and white? No worries. Try more subdued pairings like burgundy and cream, or tangerine and fuchsia. Embellishment is also big for the spring/summer season. Whether sporting dressy tops embroidered with sequins, popping of coppery buttons on tote bags or chunky rings of onyx and quartz you’re sure to dazzle. As far as accessories go, the bigger and bolder the better. Sparkling jeweled rings in modern shapes feel fresh. Also, slightly askew heart shaped pendants made of brightly colored glass provide a nice zing to any outfit.
Clunky, square and oval bangles the size of donuts can excite an airy monochrome sheath dress. Cool and playful intertwined. To put the finishing touches on a laissez-faire wardrobe for your locks, try the low-maintenance, just- rolled-out-of- bed tousled look. To get the effect, forego the hair dryer and use a thickening spray to plump roots and tie back in a loose bun. Instant messiness. Choose a pinky-red lipstick, blot, then top with a clear gloss for a bee-stung look. Same goes for cheeks. Everyone desires that fresh, scrubbed summer glow. I recommend Tarte’s Blushing Bride that gives an exquisite flushed hue without looking like a drag queen. This spring is all about lightening up and celebrating the beauty of the season. Explore your inner kookiness. Kind of like putting Sgt. Pepper’s on constant rotation. Can you dig it?
Email: khouk@uab.edu
