Spring is considered the season of new beginnings. So, with that in mind, let’s say hello to clothes that move, that speak to the soul, that elicit joy and hope and make us feel like dancing.
This season’s fashion offerings are on point, with colors and styles that are energetic and fun to mix and match. Bubblegum pink, magenta, juicy orange, fiery red, sunshine yellow, all shades of green, lavender and a variety of blues stand out. Neutrals, pastels and powdery hues pack a punch, too.
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Unexpected color combinations, such as yellow with rust or moss with girly pink, are different and appealing. Or, opt for monochromatic dressing, a modern, sophisticated look straight from the runway and one that was on view during the Presidential inauguration. Consider a monochrome pantsuit in lilac, cerulean or any favorite color.
Feel-good prints, and there are plenty, seem to harken to a brighter, fun future. Who can be in a sour mood when wearing bold rainbow stripes, vintage prints or a mini dress in psychedelic swirls?
If a mini is too short, slip into a flowy maxi or a knit dress that stretches to the calf or ankle. The column style is updated with a side slit or two, making it easy to wear without showing too much leg.
Speaking of legs, they aren’t the only body parts on view this spring and summer. Open backs and side cut-outs have found a flattering place on curve-hugging dresses and skin-tight tops. While not a look for everyone, another skin-showing trend is a bralette, crop top or bra top slipped under a jacket or worn alone with a skirt or pants.
Roomy, wide-leg trousers are a standout this spring. They’re a stylish alternative to those oh-so comfy sweats and leggings, and they offer plenty of movement. Dressed up versions in soft fabrics, such as silk or crepe, are plentiful, as are more casual styles in denim and twill. Pair with a fitted blouse or top, and definitely consider that matching jacket.
Though formal occasions have been limited the past year, here’s hoping the days of evening wear return soon – because these clothes are too good to skip. Look for extravagant dresses with full skirts, tons of tulle, statement sleeves, ruffles and flounces. Some of those details also show up on everyday fashion.
Other trends this season include eyelet, sheer fabrics, oversize button-down shirts, bold and delicate florals, beachy vibes, puff sleeves and strong shoulders. Even t-shirts get the padded shoulder treatment. Expect to see plenty of net, patchwork, feathers, crisp white, fringe, tie dye and pops of neon, too.
Sometimes accessories are the first looks embraced in a new season. It’s not a big stretch to reach for a handbag in a new shape or color, or a pair of statement earrings. Start the search now for belts, pearls, chunky metal jewelry, shoulder-grazing earrings, necklaces that hang to the waist, bucket hats, print head wraps and oversize totes and duffel bags in glorious color.
Footwear takes a big step this spring with platforms, wedges, mules, clogs, oxfords and a variety of sneakers to please everyone. Details include color blocking, chain link embellishments and straps that wrap around the foot, the ankle and sometimes the leg. There’ll be no escaping the sexy, go-with-everything thong sandals with kitten heels. And fans of flip-flops will be happy to see them return to glory, often embellished with crystals or oozing with cushy padding.
More than anything, spring fashion is a reminder that clothing can be the ultimate mood-lifter.
Photographer: Shevaun Williams
Hair and makeup: Ashley Pike, Ashley Tolman Hair and Makeup
Stylist: Samia Moses Creative
Models: Oklahoma City Ballet dancers Mickayla Carr, Micah Bullard, Alexandra Schooling and Kara Troester
Balliets, 6443 Avondale, OKC, balliets.com
Betsy King Shoes, 3001 Paseo, OKC, betsykingshoes.com
Cayman’s Clothiers, 2001 W Main, Norman, shop-caymans.com
rosegold, 6423 Avondale, OKC, shoprosegold.com
Steven Giles, 5850 N Classen, OKC, stevengilescothing.com
Tener’s, 4320 W Reno, OKC, tenersboots.com
Thrown by Covet House, 7601 N May, OKC, mythrown.com
TSO Optical, 3840 S Boulevard, Edmond, tsooptical.com