Does it even qualify as a changing of the seasons anymore if it doesn’t feel like someone flipped a switch over night? Frigid. Balmy. Winter. Spring. Here in the Midwest, it seems like all of the snow melted in an instant. I took a walk with a puffy coat, hat and gloves one evening and the next day sat on the porch in a long sleeve tee, enjoying the temperate, 55 degree weather. I pride myself on being constantly on-the-move and admit that I’m fickle to a T (I am a Libra after all), but I think it’s safe to say that the forecast is even more unpredictable than I am.
Even though the warmth may very well turn into another snowstorm, now that I’ve seen the light at the end of the tunnel, I can’t unsee it. And so, being a lover of the seasons for fashionable reasons (1. summer, 2. fall, 3. spring, 4. winter – in order of how much fun I have dressing for each), I wanted to share a few trends and top picks for the upcoming, impending spring season. Welcome to my spring fashion trend forecast.
The It Colors: Sky Blue, Lavender, Orange
It seems that neutrals are really having a moment, but not in a “staples to wear with other colors” kind of way. In a “this is all I own right now” way. But for those of you who like to see more of the color wheel in your wardrobe, I’ve noticed that sky blue and lavender seem to be recurring themes each time I pop into a store or mosey around on a website. Pastels are always refreshing for spring and now that light wash denim is in, they pair perfectly. I also think citrus orange (yes, orange) is next on deck and couldn’t we all use a little Vitamin C these days?
Backless Tops
In my college fashion theory class, we talked about the phenomenon of “shifting erogenous zones.” Based on all of the images on social and an inventory of cut out tops, I’d say your back is now at the forefront of that category. See what I did there? Better start amping up reps of those Supermans in your pilates workout.
Trousers
Trousers – or as your Great Aunt Milda might call them, slacks – are in, baby. The high waisted, loose fit kind that your dad wore to work back when he still carried a briefcase. I love the idea of mixing them with sneakers or a sexy top (like the backless ones mentioned above) as a very clear statement that you’re wearing them by choice and, uh, not ‘cause Milda said you have to.
Sweater Vests
I’m not sure if these are going to stick around come spring, but my gut tells me they are. The sweater vest trend popped up last fall, and I just got my hands on an oversized cream version. I love the way a knit vest looks when layered over an oversized white blouse or blouse dress. The cropped versions are also wayyyy cute. Steve Urkel would totally approve. By the way, he’s kind of a babe now. Google him.
The Mini Blazer & Mega Blazer
It seems like everything is either cropped or oversized these days. Drama is in, guys. I’ve seen plenty of oversized blazers that are borderline “ill-fitting,” and seem to be poached right out of a local dad’s closet. I like the idea of thrifting an oversized style and wearing it as a dress with chunky sneakers. The cropped blazer with a single button that hits right at the belly button is also hot, and I think it would look really demure with a high waisted mini skirt for date night. Yes? Yes.
Muscle Tees
This car is systematic. It’s automatic. It’s hydromatic. Why it’s Greased Lightnin’! I bought a black muscle tee with a car resembling Greased Lightnin’ from H&M, and I’m obsessed with it. Muscle tees complete with built-in shoulder pads are back for another round of warm weather. You can style these with denim or high-waisted shorts for an easy, tomboyish look. Add a chain link neck or some layered jewelry to spice it up.
Crew Neck Sweatshirts
Straight out of the 90s or a Landsend catalogue – maybe both – these basic crew neck sweatshirts are actually pretty in. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I recently went to Walmart and bought a Hanes crew neck from the men’s section. And. I. Love it. My favorite way to style them is with a silky midi skirt or leather bottoms, but you can play around with other looks as well. Layer one over a button down or make it pure street style with bike shorts and sneaks.
Cheerleader Skirts
The pleated skirt is in whether it’s cheer season or not. I’m hesitant about trying out this trend because I think it’s hard to style a pleated mini without looking like a preteen. But we all know I’m gonna try. I feel like you can counterbalance the preppy bottoms with some fierce combat boots and keep it simple up top with a crew neck sweatshirt or tank and cardigan.
Cropped Cardigans
Cardigans are cool again, and cropped versions are especially in vogue. I recently bought a cropped white version from H&M, which also comes in lavender (told ya!) and it’s already become a lifeline in my closet. This is one of the more ideal trends of the moment given that you can layer them up in the cold months and throw them on with shorts or a sundress in the summer. I’m a fan of the simple silhouettes with a bit of texture.
Square Necklines
After the endless epoch of off-the-shoulder tops, this neckline took office as the more stylish and easier to wear version. The square neckline has a subtle Victorian vibe and is flattering for those who love to wear pendants or show off their collarbones. Dass me.
Wide Leg Denim
Thank goodness skinny jeans are finally getting a run for their money. I feel like that trend went on for way too long. I blame Justin Bieber. Besides balloon jeans and kick flares, wide leg denim is here as a joint tribute to the 70s and 90s. A hybrid of bell bottoms and baggy pants, I’ve seen a lot of pairs in a light wash shade, with a rip at the knee and snug fit through the hips.
That’s all for today’s spring fashion trend report. This Megan from Viva Valair signing off. I hope you enjoyed my sassy take on all things trendy and are able to get a jump start on your spring shopping regardless of what your weatherman is sayin’. We’ll give him the benefit of the doubt, but we all know the truth: he doesn’t have a clue what’s coming. Do any of us these days?
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