With St. Patrick's Day behind us, and April promising us a warm springtime, it's time to cast off those heavy, drab, wintry garments and get into something airy and colorful. And women are still looking ultra feminine this year.
In 2008 we saw styles that took us back twenty or so years to the Eighties, and we're still visiting that fashion period. You'll want to choose bright, colorful prints in floral, tropical, or brushstroke patterns. Polka dots will stay popular. You'll see neutral garments, too, but remember to use them as a backdrop for accessories that pop.
Ruffles, bows, and sequins will be everywhere. If you are slender, go for the ruffles along your neckline. If you are fuller figured or have a large bosom, forgo the ruffles but look for smocking or lace trimmings that will catch the eye. No matter what you choose this year, you want to remember two words: COLOR and COUPONS!
Fabrics: For the Feel of It
Thankfully, fabrics are staying swishy and malleable. Look for Jersey knits or polyester mixed with Spandex or Lycra, or polyester/rayon blends. With a rayon blend you want a touch of Spandex added for comfort. You'll also enjoy cotton/polyester blends as well as linen, and of course 100% cotton. For dress-up, expect to find fabrics intermingled with metallic blends or bands of sequins, because sparkle is a part of it all.
Pants: All Over the Leg
Last year's jumpsuits are still popular, the wider-legged the better, and they'll stay full length. Waistlines are belted, shirred, or otherwise enhanced. For glamour outings, you can find many jumpsuits in elegant fabrics and colors, and the wide legs glide along almost like a skirt. Some strictly casual pant styles will stop at 7/8 length, and it is a crime if you don't take advantage of this with an eye-catching shoe. With the most playful pants, some women still like the feel of the low rise. Business casual pants are just about waist high, with an emphasis on waist bands and cuffs that set off the pants. Pantsuits include the traditional business casual pants as described, and the jacket will sizzle with a double or wide collar and shoulder pads.
Dresses: Dress It Up, Dress It Down
If you are substituting a pantsuit for a dress, at work or an evening out, look for a ruffled blouse to wear under it. If you can't wear ruffles, go for a metallic chemise or tank top. Corsets and corset bodices have made a comeback. Skirts-attached to the dress or just on their own-will be full and feminine, or fitted and slinky. Expect a lot of high-waisted dress styles this spring, with the top featuring a peasant style or other scooped neck as well as plunging Vs and boatnecks. Flowing, long, casual dresses are back in style. No matter what length you go, the neckline will be something different; remember Angelica's neckline at the Oscars?
Accessories: Where the Action Is
Cardigans, blousy and belted, or belted jackets are still great fashion statements. Wear them with your dress at the business office or atop your jumpsuits. You can even layer cardigans for a special look. Scarves are practically de rigueur. Use them around your neck; use them around your waist. No matter where you put them, the scarves must be vivid and bold! Shoes will have high heels this year like we've seen on Carrie Bradshaw.
A Look in the Mirror...
One of the key pieces of advice we have is to save last year's spring and summer clothes, because fashionistas are not done with them yet! Last year's styles can be updated and enhanced in lots of ways. Use your imagination and have fun!
By Rebecca Stevenson
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