Yep, it’s that time again; that lovely, supposedly bright and fresh season when baby animals are born, flowers regrow and we ourselves are rejuvenated. Supposedly. In reality, it’s usually incredibly rainy, we are tired of eating salads and trying to go to the gym and spring becomes a bit of a “nothing” season. Well, let me tell you now; not this year ladies!
Spring 2016 may not bring you the promised change in weather, but it sure will bring you the promised change in all things fashion. With a few slightly altered trends transitioning from winter to spring and some TOTALLY new, it’s due to be a full-on start to the year! Below, I’m going to take you through all matter of these, explaining them and recommending how you can make them ‘wearable’… Have fun and, most importantly, get inspired!
Slogan Tees/Sweatshirts
First of all, let’s start with a brand spanking new trend; of course the idea has been around for many years, but this particular style sort of just jumped into fashion as soon as it heard the word ‘spring’. In line with the sporty movement of 2016, this sort of thing is for the fun-loving, laid-back amongst you all. Slogan tops look great with simple denim counterparts for a boyish feel. Uniquely created and full of character, these are easily found in vintage stores in just about anywhere. Or, if you’re more of a highstreet girl, Topshop, Zara and Urban Outfitters have this trend down to a TEE right now (geddit?!).
Blush tones
Fair, mauvey, pale pink tones are striking up everywhere right now, complementing the efflorescent , delicate textures of formal wear right now. Looks stunning on just about every skin tone and adds a hint of colour to any sophisticated grey/black toned outfit – what more could you want? Think re-worked pastels and you’ve got it spot on.
BIG earrings
Prepare for earrings to be made redundant as accessories and take the front seat in the queue. Not something to be barely seen; something to make a statement with – something for the experimental girl, the brave and confident one. Inspiration has come from the glamorous girls of the upper classes and tribal culture and places like Topshop and Accessorize are making this a simple fashion to follow!
Choppy, wild, ’60s hair
If you’ve not gathered yet; I’m a huge fan of the ’60s style coming into play at the moment; I love the idea of a doe-eyed, natural, Bond-worthy woman. It’s the definition of sexy in my eyes. Think Brigette Bardot voluminous waves and wispy fringes. This one’s for the seriously fashion-following youth; if you’re going to take a hair risk this season make sure it’s getting this style.
T-bars and straps
Another trend that has slowly creeped in, so much so that we’ve hardly noticed! But look everywhere, catwalk and highstreet and you’ll see straps of sorts all over the footwear. I suppose it’s in sync with the retro-loving sensation of fashion right now. Just browse the Doc Marten’s or Kurt Geiger site and you’re bound to find the pair for you; I’m lusting after the Doc’s Polley Shoe at the moment!
Croc Leather
As my mother says, a woman can NEVER have enough handbags or shoes. I firmly believe that bags and shoes are what make an outfit. Croc leather is a certainly a trend that comes and goes, but invest in a quality piece and it will see you through these fluctuations! If you’re looking for a new outfit companion, take a look at Topshop and Zara, or even Mulberry and Vivienne Westwood, if you’re a lady of luxury.
Seductively sheer
One of my favourite micro trends of SS16 – dainty yet sexy; all slip dresses and sheer blouses. Well mixed with the lingerie-blending-into-clothing movement. As the days get slightly warmer, expect these lace-detailed, loose-shape pieces to be lining the shelves – relaxed figures are no longer something for simply hiding your body. But, while it’s still a little on the chilly side, don’t be afraid to pull on a turtleneck under that slip dress for ultimate fashion style.
Sweatpants
Sweatpants, joggers, whatever you call them; the classic lazy Sunday trousers. Not any more. Sweatpants, in keeping with the loose shapes trend have become something to wear out. Sport some luxe, light, hareem style sweatpants for a new take on the day-trouser. Kylie’s doing it, Rihanna’s doing it, Zendaya’s doing it – so why aren’t you?!
Trim detailing
This began in autumn last year when fashion began looking for a way to customise minimalistic pieces and BOY has it taken off. That plain white tee? Oh it now has a blue piping trim, darling. On just about any item of clothing, be it dresses, shirts, trousers – trims everywhere, to provide a little contrast; inject a little style. An easy trend for anyone to try.
Bomber Jackets
Obviously, bomber jackets have been around for a little while, but with recent gravitation towards boyish shapes and sporty looks, they fit right in with the fashion of the season. Every store on the high street is shouting about them and I doubt you’ll make it through 2016 without investing in one of these timeless all-weather pieces. Suede, zip-detailed, silk… Whatever your style, there’s bound to be a bomber jacket for you.
Oriental Prints
As we’re moving away from the darker days, here in the UK, I’m starting to notice the classic floral print moving in. Last year it was all about blown-up block colour florals and dark, gothic prints. This year, we’re going oriental. Intricacy in print and gentle tones; but still something you can make a statement with. Looks wonderful on trousers or shift dresses!
Trench Coats
As, I mentioned recently, I love the shape of wrap coats; they give anyone a curvy figure, no matter how much curve you really have and are just so classy. Trench coats are spring’s slightly lighter sister to the thick, felt, winter wrap coats we’ve been loving. They still give the desired womanly figure, but are a little more on the military side, which is oh-so-2016. Look to just about any high street or luxury brand and their bound to have their own version of this classic coat. My favourites are Hobbs‘ and La Redoute‘s!