As winter comes to a close, the thick, chunky sweaters and clunky snow boots that we've come to know and love are put away. After months of being wrapped up and hidden under layers of clothing, it's easy to be left feeling drab. Wanting to stick to the basics can become habit and wondering how to jumpstart your warm-weather wardrobe can be a feat. As the seasons transition, so do our wardrobes. With that conversion, many of us stare blankly into our clothes-packed closet and experience the dreaded "I have nothing to wear" moment.
As stated in last week's column, "Keeping beautiful since 1921," magazine headlines vie for our attention in the checkout line at the store and include the latest fashion trends. This was true for the McCall's Magazine from 100 years ago as women were kept abreast with advice of what to wear and beauty tips. It was a nostalgic visit to a past time, particularly the advertisements, yet at the same time it was evident that the more things change, the more they stay the same. Then and now we may find ourselves persuaded to keep up with the latest styles, looks, and trends. Older women certainly can attest or chuckle about how what's currently considered "new" was part of some trend in another decade of the past. Whether the year is 1921 or 2012, many women are interested in using their wardrobe to look and feel good.
If adding a "kick" to your wardrobe is a mission this season, you're in luck. Spring/summer 2012 is all about bold colors, whimsical prints, pastels, and lace chic and classic with a touch of edgy playfulness. Now that we know what is trending, you might wonder exactly what items to incorporate into your wardrobe and how to piece them together. As clothing consumers, we all want versatility and the biggest bang for our buck when it comes to the items in our closet.
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A simple mint skirt and lace top with wedge shoes works for 2012.
The most popular trend by far this season is soft mint green. Mint is the "it" factor. Because it can be dressed up or down and beautifully complements every skin tone, it's no wonder it climbed to the top of "trend mountain." In addition to mint, other pastels such as lavender, bubblegum pink, guava, and buttercup yellow overflow the racks this season. Pastels made their way to the top for a reason. For work or a night out on the town, a pastel-colored pencil skirt paired with a tucked in lace or crochet top, skinny belt and nude heels creates a chic, polished silhouette.
For a more relaxed look, match pastel denim with an ivory or crisp white top and flats, or, go monochromatic and wear your denim with a different shade of the same color.
Another popular trend this season is neon. Vibrant greens, pinks, blues, and yellows can be found ranging from jeans to handbags. Neon adds playfulness, spunk, and of course color, to your wardrobe. When wearing neon, pair it with a neutral to create a simple, streamlined look. It keeps the focus on the fun part (neon!) without being overwhelming. If you're feeling extra daring, add a neutral based accessory, such as a scarf with a fun print, and you are sure to have any outfit that proclaims "look at me!"
Whimsical and loud patterns/prints are also trending for 2012. You have your choice of geometric patterns, animal, tropical, and floral prints. The options are essentially endless! The same rule applies to whimsical patterns, as when wearing neon. Keep it simple the pattern or print is the emphasis of the office. Pair a patterned or printed top with a boyfriend blazer. Match it with jeans, wide-legged trousers, or a pencil skirt and you're bound to have all eyes on you.
Last, but certainly not least of the trends for 2012 colorful lace. Lace is feminine, classic, and chic. Remember when wearing colorful lace that less is more. This is key. Don't over-accessorize, as the lace makes its own statement. If you want to keep your lace color the traditional ivory or white, pair it with black or a dark- wash denim, keeping in mind that accessories and jewelry should be kept to a minimum.
If these trends just aren't for you but you are still looking for wardrobe pieces that offer versatility, there are a few staple items to keep on hand, no matter the time of year. Boyfriend blazers, cardigans, basic white shirts (long sleeve and short sleeve), white blouses, pencil skirts, a navy or black A-line dress, dark wash trouser jeans, belts in a variety of colors and widths, boots, flats, everyday sandals, and neutral colored pumps all help to create a good overall look.
As the spring continues to make its entrance, see what 2012 trends will work for you. If you're really lucky, you may already have some vintage pieces in storage that you can re-incorporate into your 2012 spring/summer wardrobe. Find your own style combinations to suit your lifestyle and personality. Most women who feel good about how they look often find themselves walking with an extra bounce and exude more confidence, no matter what decade or time.
Make it a good week and feel free to check out www.themagpieblog.blogspot.com for some specific youthful fashion ideas using both vintage and current clothing and accessories to create a new look for yourself.
Send comments on this column to lifestyles@observertoday.com
