Fashion month is finally over after a jammed pack spring showing from New York, London, Milan and Paris. We saw everything from Marc Jacobs’ departure from Louis Vuitton after a 16-year collaboration to Alexander Wang’s Parental Advisory shirt — which costs a whopping $995 — making waves on the trend spotlight.
Alas, it’s now time to look back, breathe and take in all the lessons that designers have taught us over the course of the month for spring season. First, fall hues are taking a lead for spring. Designers such as Proenza Schouler and Suno are trading in spring florals and embracing minimalism. Black, whites and reds are dominating the runway so invest in some great fall pieces that can easily transition to spring. Second, balance is key. Shorter hemlines and lighter materials to enhance movement are in but the age-old rule of balancing a short bottom with a higher neckline or long coat is still in effect. Third, your clothes should serve a function. Flats, Birkenstocks (yes Birkenstocks), chiffon and mesh were heavily integrated into looks for spring in the name of functionality for the warmer weather.
While a good proportion of what comes down the runway may not be approachable, we’ve edited 10 looks that are wearable and on trend for you to try this spring.
1. Denim: Denim is back for spring. From denim jackets to distressed jeans, casual has returned with an effortless look.
Designers we love: Rachel Zoe’s distressed denim jeans and H&M’s embellished denim jacket (available March 2014).
2. Black and white: There’s nothing quite like keeping things simple and crisp yet interesting.
Designer we love: Milly by Michelle’s white tapered pants and black mesh jacket.
3. Crop tops: Bralettes and crop tops are giving us one more reason to stay fit during winter in anticipation for spring.
Designers we love: Badgley Mischka’s white crop top and Micahel Kor’s solid black bandeau paired with high waisted shorts and la belted long coat.
4. Sporty and relaxed: The sporty look has come a long way and spring is looking at a relaxed yet put together kind of casually.
Designer we love: Tommy Hilfiger’s turquoise blazer and trousers.
5. Boyfriend blazers: Relaxed fit blazers are the new sweater/jacket perfect as a throw over paired with jeans, leggings or dresses.
Designer we love: The Elizabeth and James single button black blazer.
6. Mesh Lace: Designers love mesh and lace this season and many have integrated the two to create a laid back kind of luxury.
Designer we love: Diane Von Furstenberg’s lace panel-wrap dress.
7. Mini skirts: Hemlines are getting shorter with the warmer weather and spring is showing a sexy side.
Designer we love: Monique L’huillier’s satin high waisted mini skirt.
8. Tribal prints: Designers are inspired by cultural prints and embracing it as a statement within their collections.
Designers we love: Donna Karan New York’s tribal print dress and Mara Hoffman’s long tribal print dress.
9. Back to mod: The mod look is back. Cue the aviator and cat eye sunglasses.
Designers we love: Ralph Lauren’s dress and the Elizabeth and James mod sunglasses.
10. Shorts: Short shorts to be exact.
Designer we love: Michael Kor’s high waisted shorts.
Amy Yew is a contributing columnist at Vancouver Courier and a fashion and style writer. Tell us what you think and submit any questions you have to [email protected]. You can also tweet your thoughts @AmyYew.
