After a flourish of fashion weeks in the greatest cities in the world (New York, Paris, London, Milan, and of course, Montreal), spring is brimming with new trends that are sure to revamp your wardrobe. Here are the top ten.
Serious Stripes
Feeling too timid to try some of fashion’s most daring trends? Never fear—spring’s big, bold, uncomplicated stripes certainly took a prominence on the runways this season. Worn with denim, they’ll be classic girl-next-door; with navy, they’ll be nautical; worn head-to-toe, (in moderation!) you’ll be the star of the show. Make sure your stripes are minimal and slim; ones that are too big won’t be chic!
Peekaboo Cutouts
This season, you won’t have any problems finding the perfect date night outfit—daring cutouts, sky-high slits, and sheer fabrics are all the rage. Designers like BCBG and Diane von Furstenberg loved this trend, and you can be sure to find more cutout pieces at Topshop, Editorial, or online at ASOS.com and NastyGal.com.
Put Your Back Into It
A plain sweater can transform into a fashion statement when there’s a little detail at the back. In Aritzia’s new spring collection, back detail is just brimming off the shelves! Whether it’s a scooped, low-cut back, or just a slit from the bottom, you’ll be sure to steal the spotlight. Local retailers such as Zara, Urban Outfitters, and Forever XXI have taken on this sultry trend as well. The best part? There’s a cutout for every body shape (and level of modesty).
Amazing Lace
After countless seasons of hype both on and off the runway, lace continues to be a major fashion trend. Used both as a subtle accent or the main attraction, it can be suited to any style. Go for the Kate Middleton, classic ladylike lace look, or channel your inner Rihanna, and wear it as an edgy, provocative piece.
Statement Sunglasses
As the sunny days get longer, a pair of sunglasses not only protects your eyes, but makes for a huge style statement. This season, sunglasses in every shape and size hit the runway, each one bolder than the last. Even the plainest of outfits will burst with style when you add a pair of edgy sunnies. Beyoncé’s Prada Baroque sunglasses are one of the most notable this season—so why not channel your inner Queen B?
For the Love of Ruffles
Flirty ruffles are everywhere from sleeves to hemlines on the spring runways of Balenciaga, Ralph Lauren, and Gucci. Used thoughtfully and in unexpected ways, the latest ruffle trend isn’t only for the typical girly-girl. Our favourite ruffle, called the anemone neckline—since it resembles the flowers of the same name—makes ravishing waves that outline the entire neckline of dresses and tops.
Fresh Floral
The freshest of flowers are no longer simply muted or hidden in abstract prints. This season, bright and bold floral prints were blooming at full capacity on spring’s runways. For an off-the-runway look, try silk floral shorts, or an edgy black top with floral embellishments. Look for this fresh trend at Forever XXI, BCBG, and aritzia.com.
Luxe Leather
Always a classic, a luxe leather piece is a definite spring staple for your wardrobe. Minimal and chic, the newest leather pieces that stormed the runway looked modern and relevant. Invest in a leather skater skirt, or a peplum top for that extra fashionista mile. Find this trend at American Apparel, or online at NastyGal.com.
Black and White
Spring trends may typically consist of pastels and delicate prints, but this season, designers like Marc Jacobs, Alexander Wang and Jason Wu shone the spotlight on strong black-and-white looks. Fitting to wear all year round, easy to pull off at any price tag, and sleek enough to go from your evening lecture to a hot date, this trend is the definition of wearable.
Pointed Toes
Sexy ’90s pointed toe shoes are back, and have been modernized with dainty ankle straps and ladylike heels. Tired of your four-inch pumps? Re-invent your spring wardrobe with a pair of these shoes with slouchy boyfriend jeans or Bermuda shorts to brunch with your girlfriends.
