It’s Valentine’s Day, which means it’s about the time of year to start planning your spring wardrobe. Just to clarify, the official start of spring (in this state) is March first, not Easter as in colder climates.
The stores have begun selling bright and colorful prints, and the weatherman says it’s supposed to be warm (even though it may be for a short period of time). Although Fall Fashion Week in New York just ended, I think I can safely say that we are all looking forward to getting out of our heavy jackets and spring.
For the ladies, the big color for spring is silver. Whether you think it is tacky or you love it, silver accessories are hot in a big way. Other “ins” include colorful tropical prints, delicate and flowing fabrics and feminine cuts. The baby doll dress is back with a vengeance. First popularized in the ’60s, brought back in the ’90s, and spun off in the past couple of seasons, the baby doll shows a lot of great leg yet still has a flattering cut for women of many shapes and sizes.
The surprise color for the season is black, and although it attracts the heat of the sun, if it’s used in lightweight fabrics, black can be just as cool as lighter colors.
More than in seasons past, this spring and summer are all about flowing fabrics and frilly ruffles (but not lace). Complicated beading and bizarre embroidery are out; simplicity is usually the best policy.
As for shoes, everyone from Christian Louboutin to Chloe to Prada is showing clunky heels and shaped espadrille wedge-platform hybrids. For those who prefer flats, you’re in luck: Many designers are coming out with cute summer flats in various leathers, canvases and animal prints. What’s different this year is the widespread use of white; don’t be afraid of a great pair of white patent leather pumps.
To match the fabulous shoes of the season are some equally stunning bags. Purses for spring and summer are large, made of exotic skins, and generally are darker with the exception of sporadic white calf-leather bags. Following suit with last season, huge tacky logos branded on handbags are in style, despite their ostentatious nature.
For the men of SMU, the same old things are in store for this season with some slight variations. Polo shirts and khaki shorts are in, but with muted colors and more European fits. Pleats are making a comeback and are best matched with a great pair of Prada drivers. When wearing jeans, consider that the hottest denim for spring is dark-washed, skinny-cut, and probably has minimal hardware.
The best suits of the season are in various colors of light beige. Just like the ladies, everything is best left in its simplest form. Lightweight cottons, silks, and microfibers are sure to be a hit wherever you go, and linen should be kept to a minimum. Overall, the look is relaxed with a natural feel.
Spring 2007 has a lot to offer the American consumer: comfy fabrics, neutral tone with contrasting bright colors and sexy styles. One thing remains true: the best clothes are the ones you feel good in, and no designer label is worth compromising that.
Here in my drivers, polo, and khakis I’m just thinking to myself, “I know right?”, even though no one said anything to me.
