Top Trends Spring/Summer 2018
As I think about Spring, I’ve renewed my desire to accentuate the positive and eliminate the negative as much as possible. It’s an approach to life, as well as closets and home, that puts front and center the positive stuff that makes our lives happier and easier, and gets the negative things out. A new mantra I use is to “give myself permission to let go of what no longer serves me”, and I love how freeing the end result is.
Giving yourself permission to become your best self — regardless of fashion trends — is getting some press play as well. I was reading an article in the Wall Street Journal that noted “women are revolting against the idea that they must change their style every season” and I completely agree! I like sharing trends with my clients because it gives them a catalog of what is readily available in stores, so they can choose the items that will flatter them and that they will most enjoy. To quote style icon Iris Apfel (from a Feb. article in Harper’s Bazaar), “Cultivating your style requires work … it’s a process of trial and error: you find out who you are and what looks best on you…”
So then, take these trends with a grain of salt, and decide for you what you like.
top trends
Florals Plus… This spring, florals are everywhere!
It’s no surprise florals are back, but this year I’m seeing more floral dresses with a denim jacket (a wonderful look that never really goes away). I’ve mentioned before that I prefer smaller/medium scale prints on a darker palette, as they tend to be the easiest to wear.
Patterns and Pattern Mixing. Geometrics, polka dots, sripes & gingham checks (notably black and white gingham) are summer classics, but are being shown in more of a “mix and match” way. Try pairing florals with dots or checks as a fun new trend, but I recommend a few tips: typically, you’ll want one print to dominate and another for an accent, and I prefer if there’s something to tie the patterns together (color family). Stripes are especially big this year and look fresh in both traditional and brighter colors. Shirt-dresses are a cool choice for stripes.
Asymmetry and Draping! Asymmetrical necklines and hemlines abound and can be very easy to wear, but make sure the draping detail highlights your best features. I love the way diagonal lines flatter all body types, and you can also accomplish this look with draped and knotted, as well as twisted, fabrics.
Color Explosion! It’s a season with plenty of choices, from pastels to Crayola brights. Pantone declared Ultra Violet the color of the year, but Lavender is taking off in stores. I like pastels with lighter blue jeans, or even white, army green or lighter-grey pants. I’m also a fan of monochromatic looks…but don’t forget accessory pops to give you some style!
Transparencies – sophisticated cuts in diaphonous fabrics are another one of my personal favorites. Wear these pieces as tops, dresses or jackets to flatter your best features. Layer the transparent fabric over or under other items to strategically reveal, and don’t feel you have to do what the celebrities do and show everything!
Japonica – Kimono style floral jackets, tops and dresses are in! Lots of wrap styles that look good on everyone, so go ahead and experiment with what you may like. These Japan – inspired prints, florals and obi sashes are a fun update.
Shoe Trends:
Mules (backless, slip-on closed-toe shoes) and Slides (open-toed backless shoes) are the big news. Flat or with a chunky heel, they are the “everywhere” warm weather shoe. Open-toe sandal booties are going strong as well, as are sandals with ankle straps, ties and dainty details. Been noticing quite a few metallic shoes as well!
Jewelry. Statement earrings in longer lengths and colors are big, with delicate features to make them more wearable. You don’t want your earrings to hang too heavy!
makeup pics for the season
As you know, I love sharing my favorite finds with my clients! First off, this year has been especially dry and my latest budget fave is Curel Ultra Healing Lotion. It’s not greasy, and it does the job better than many other types I’ve tried. I truly love it for hands and body, and at a great price too.
I’ve also been a big fan of Clinque’s “Heather Pop” blush. I think it looks great on most lighter skin types. The Berry Delight blush is my pick for darker skin. Enjoy!
I appreciate and love referrals!
For my Spring promotion, why not offer the gift of my time — and get a gift yourself? If you refer a new client to me (and I work with them) I will gratefully give you a free hour of my time.