S is for Spring…
… and suede, slits, shirtdresses, safari, Seventies, and a whole slew of new seasonal style twists that arrives with the spring equinox.

 

S is for Spring…

… and suede, slits, shirtdresses, safari, Seventies, and a whole slew of new seasonal style twists that arrives with the spring equinox. While every season spotlights a range of what will have 15 minutes of fashion fame, this spring offers something for almost every letter of the alphabet from culottes to obi belts. Some of the new spring trends are a little challenging, like the focus on yellow and those aforementioned culottes. But hey, there are 26 letters in the alphabet, and you’re sure to find a works-for-you trend in there somewhere.

 

T is for Trends…

… Here are just a few, in alphabetical order, of course.

 

Black & White: This is a classic any season, any decade, and had lots of runway time at the shows. It’s a crisp combo that can go from business to bohemian. Though each shade alone is a standard neutral, together they are a style party. If black and white is too bold for you, blue and white and head-to-toe white are also big spring trends.

Culottes:  I’m sorry, but they are back. If you’re tall enough or at least have long, slim legs, then jump right in. Spring 2015 runways showed them in above-the-ankle and just-below-the-knee lengths and in lots of fabrics and prints. At least this time around, they are paired with heels and blazers and can be office-worthy.

Denim: Lots of it. Baggy, structured, asymmetrical, upscale, luxe. Billowy pants, oversized smock-style, button-front shirts, and loose dresses.

Gingham: Not just for Kansas anymore. Tiny checks are pushing fall’s plaids to the side and not in a quiet, country girl way. They’re all over pencil skirts, edgy silhouettes,  tailored jackets, shoes, and places you’d never expect to find them.

Kimono-Style Trench Coats: Now here’s a great idea: the comfort of a wrap-around robe with street smarts.  On the bottom, sleek but roomy. On top, structured, tailored trench details. Best of both worlds. Great new look.

Obi Belts:  Not the usual wide obi, but a narrower version. Tie them to the side, and this accessory is not only of-the-moment but brilliant at creating a waist and slim appearance. They’re a cinch with baggy denim tops and dresses, coats and jackets.

Safari: The next generation of this evergreen look is upscale and includes khaki trench dresses, poncho coats, fern prints, and camo-inspired pieces that stand out rather than blend in. Think chic not campsite.

Seventies: Valerie Steele, Director and Chief Curator at the F.I.T. Museum, once called the 70s the decade that fashion forgot. Apparently, someone remembered because 70s-style is having a big influence on spring. Mod floral prints, long dusters, denim, shirtdresses, culottes, suede, and fringe. BTW, the F.I.T. Museum (27th Street and 7th Avenue) currently has two great fashion exhibits: “Yves Saint Laurent + Halston: Fashioning the 70s” through April 18, and “Lauren Bacall: The Look” on view until April 4.

Shirtdresses: With slits, double slits, dropped waists, and interesting prints and stripes, and yes, in gingham, too. They aren’t looking so traditional this spring.

Slits: Side, front, back. Above-the-knee and higher slits are adding a sexy vibe to even the most tailored pieces and are featured on tops and skirts of every length as well as dresses in volume from straight to billowy.

Yellow:  A tough one, but all you have to do is identify your skin tone, and you can find the best version of this of-the-moment color for you. Amber, canary, lemon, saffron, marigold, whatever. Don’t be a coward. Give it a try. If not a solid yellow, then a print starring yellow.