Congratulations, we have officially made it to spring.
How will you be celebrating after this long winter?
Counting the crocuses in your garden? How about wearing your favorite flower on a blouse?
This spring, after four fashion shows in New York, Milan, Paris and London, one trend is blooming strong; floral decadence. There were small flowers; think dainty daisies on a rain coat. There were giant peony-esque creations and there were blue roses walking the catwalk. So let’s talk about how this feminine trend can bring a little spring to your closet.
If you are bold and want to start strong, go head first into a beautiful floral dress. So many brick and mortar retailers are showcasing maxi and midi-dresses just blooming with flower prints. Most of them aren’t over the top and seem more abstract than garden party.
You can easily find a neutral dress in blacks, browns or grays that will covertly sport this trend, or you can proudly display pink, purple and red blooms. Whichever color story you choose, make sure you pair it with something that will accentuate and not compete.
Being I am a jacket lover, the jean jacket is screaming to be paired with a floral maxi. Why you ask? They are complete opposites and play off each other. The floral maxi is girly and innocent. The jean jacket is a token from your old boyfriend and gives gamine charm. Not to mention, denim in all constructions is on point for this spring season.
If you prefer to keep your floral to a minimum, sporting a floral midi skirt would be adorable for upcoming spring holidays, wedding season and beyond. With a floral skirt, you have infinite choices for your top while showcasing a floral bottom. Either a fit and flair or pencil floral skirt would be darling with a plain tee shirt tucked in paired with a wide banded belt or an obi belt.
If you’re reveling in the pastel trends as set forth by Pantone, you can pair your skirt with a dainty color or go bold and put a dark tone such as navy or black on top. A floral skirt is a good start since you won’t feel overwhelmed by the print if you think it is too busy since it’s only on your lower half!
For those of us who don’t like commitments to trends and are only looking for splashes of floral, there are many accessories out there that can lend a hand or ear.
Statement earrings are more popular than ever this season. With lightweight beads and resins, you can get a large impact with a lightweight feel. You can also search Etsy for jewelry designers who work in mixed media including lace, mesh and wire to get your floral fix.
Lastly, handbags are more of a commitment depending on material, and the price point can help you carry your belongings in floral style.
If you are looking for an investment piece, I suggest a saffiano leather bag. This treated leather will give you years of wear and won’t show the tear. I was able to score an orange saffiano leather bag on an online retailer’s website at a steel. So keep your eyes peeled for pre-season sales.
If you want a casual piece and like lighter bags, look for cotton canvas totes. With a cotton canvas tote, you can either look into coated canvas designs which will be easier to clean and maintain or untreated cotton totes that are soft to the touch.
However you choose to brighten your wardrobe and your day with flowers, do it in style. It doesn’t take much to give a stylish touch.
Denise Bennett maintains a fashion blog on Perfect20.co, and is a regular contributor to Spotlight on Living.
