Despite the doom and gloom news we’ve been getting on the economy, I’m happy to report that it’s not stopping fashionistas from expressing themselves. Fashion this spring is an escape for most women. What we saw on the spring runways were vibrant hues, florals, metallics, grandiose jewelry and bedazzled necklines.
Before going shopping for pieces to update your closet, it’s important to shop your own closet first. A lot of times, many women go out shopping without actually seeing what they have in their closet to determine how their new purchases will work into their style equation.
There are three key pieces women can acquire to spruce their wardrobe up a bit. They are the playsuit, the masculine jacket and the statement jacket with a bedazzled neckline. All these pieces can be found at boutiques and shops in the Washington, DC area. With a keen eye and a solid plan, you too can be a fabulous fashionista.
THE PLAYSUIT
The first look for spring is the playsuit. The playsuit creates a look that is sophisticated, unfussy and perfectly pulled together. A strong heel, a layered necklace and big cuffs will help you achieve a polished look.
Courtney
Eros Jumper – $325
Bruno Grizzo Cummerbund – $175
Barbara Bui T-Strap Python Sandals – $800
Natalia Brilli Crow Feather Clutch (lambskin) – $895
Natalia Brilli la sautoir –long beaded necklace – $375
All available at Hu’s Wear in Georgetown.
Queen Earrings – $35 www.queenbeedesigns.com
Brass Cuffs by Fallon – available at We One You Two (www.weoneyoutwo.com)
FLORALS
Florals are also in this spring. We’ve been seeing them on skirts, dresses, headbands, cuff bracelets and even shoes. One thing you must remember with this trend is to make the floral piece the focal point and adding complimentary accessories to the complete the look as illustrated in my outfit.
Makeda
Vineyard Vines Sea Fan Sea Beach Dress – $225 available at Vineyard Vines
All Dress Up Jacket – $465 available at Hu’s Wear
Brian Atwood Nico Decollete Pumps available at Hu’s Shoes
Kendra Scott Hilton Earrings in Azzure earrings – $125 available at Wink Boutique
FLIRTATION WITH MASCULINITY
The next key trend is a flirtation with masculinity. All over the spring runways, over sized blazers and cardigans, baggy jeans and ties were in. The best way to get this look is to get an over sized blazer that is versatile for work and play. Jaclyn is wearing an over sized blazer with a flirty ruching on the elbow. This isn’t your boyfriend’s blazer. This blazer will make jeans and a tank perfectly polished for work or add a bit of structure to a flirty floral skirt. Adding grandiose jewelry like graduated strands of pearls makes this ensemble a million dollar outfit.
Jaclyn
This look can be found at Urban Chic in Georgetown (www.urbanchiconline.com)
Myne Lucy Skirt in Lagoon – $216
Michael Stars Lace Trimmed Camisole – $39
Elizabeth & James James IV Jacket in Sand – $411
Alice & Olivia layered Faux Pearl Necklace
J.J. Winters Croc Clutch in Fuschia – $150 Cocktail Ring – $58
THE BEADED JACKET
An attention getting jacket is another way to spruce up your wardrobe this spring. A jacket bedecked in intricate beading and explosion of color is just what the doctor ordered for spring. Less is more with this look. The focal point should be the jacket so just incorporating some of the colors in the jewels in your outfit will suffice. A twill skirt, a tank and a tote bag polish this look to perfection.
Kamari
Vineyard Vines Classic Twill Skirt – $68 available at Vineyard Vines
RN Convertible Tank – $144 available at Wink Boutique
Milly Beaded Jacket – $336 available at Wink Boutique
ELSPETH New York East Village Tote – $255 www.elspethnyc.com
Queen Bee Designs Earrings – $35 www.queenbeedesigns.com
