Who doesn’t look forward to spring? Not only are there warmer temperatures to anticipate but there’s the chance to wear sandals again and other spring staples promising to put an extra spring in our step. Then again, there are those promising-to-be-huge spring trends we all can’t help but be a bit hesitant to try. In fact, it turns out some of spring’s biggest looks even intimidate the DMV’s fiercest fashion and beauty bloggers. Read on for the spring trends seven of said bloggers have nailed down as tricky as well as their tips for pulling them off tremendously. –Natalie Kaar
Products shown (clockwise from left): DL 1961 “Rocky” Denim and Leather Jacket, $248, bloomingdales.com; Kenneth Cole One-Piece Bandeau Swimsuit, $104.50, southmoonunder.com; 3.1 Phillip Lim A-Line Leather Shorts, $795, shopbop.com; Eugenia Kim “Bianca” Wide-Brim Fedora, $340, couture.zappos.com.
What is one spring fashion trend you personally find tricky or believe the general public will be hesitant to include in their closets? And can you offer any styling tips on how to make that trend a bit less intimidating?
RUFFLES are huge for the spring, and I think they can be a bit tricky to wear without looking too fussy or cutesy. The best way to balance out the femininity of ruffles is to pair them with something edgier or more masculine; think distressed denim or a light leather bomber. —Ashley Lettich of ashleyindc.com
I think LEATHER IN THE SPRING, which I saw all over the runways at NYFW, will be intimidating for some. Think about color and lighter-weight leather. It does exist and can add some edge to your pastels and florals this spring. Take a look at Tibi’s spring collection for inspiration. —Lacey Maffetone of alaceyperspective.com
LONG SHORTS/BERMUDA SHORTS. We feel that this is a trend that, if worn wrong, could end up being too masculine and unflattering. First and foremost, we definitely suggest wearing heels; that always boosts our confidence in trying out a new trend! A two-inch pointed toe with an ankle strap (if you’re short, skip the strap) heel would work perfectly. And a well-fitted/tailored shirt would go nicely in order to give you some shape up top, since everything is going to be a little bit [baggier] on the bottom. Lastly, add a pop of bright lipstick and … you are ready to go! —Natalie & Erika Pinto of thefashionablybroke.com
PEEK-A-BOO PIECES such as cutouts, sheer [materials] and high slits! As sexy as this trend may look on a slim runway model, you really have to be comfortable with your body to rock this particular style, especially since most of the cutouts, for example, are usually in the midsection … yikes! If you love the trend but aren’t too comfortable revealing so much skin, add a fun cardigan or jacket to the look for a more subtle feel. Trust me when I say people will still notice how chic and trendy you are, but you’ll be leaving a little more to the imagination, which never hurts, especially on a first date. —Katya Ananieva of spicycandydc.com
I think Saint Laurent certainly set the stage for WIDE-BRIMMED FEDORAS to be a strong trend this spring; however, hats tend to be an intimidating accessory in general, and added volume takes it to the next level. As with any statement piece, I find a good way to create balance is to go minimal with the rest of your outfit. A wide-brimmed hat [similar to what was seen on the runway] would look great with sleek tailored black pants or high-waisted jeans and a ‘70s-style tie blouse. —E of districtofchic.com
One of my favorite spring trends this year, and in recent years, is NEON … but the idea of wearing electric yellow, green or pink can be intimidating, and I’ve had friends and readers tell me they’re hesitant to try it because it isn’t flattering or they’re afraid it’ll make them stand out (not in the good way). … Test the waters with something simple like a bright necklace, pair of earrings or small handbag to see if the look is right for you. It also helps to pair these shockingly bright hues with neutral tones. —Alison Coglianese of chainstrappurse.com
Look for spring beauty trend advice from these bloggers at northernvirginiamag.com/bloggerbeauty.
Next month buyers from Bishop Boutique, The Shoe Hive and Nordstrom talk spring sandal standouts.
Photos: Courtesy of Zappos.com (eugenia kim “bianca” fedora); Courtesy of bloomingdale’s (dl 1961 “rocky” denim & leather jacket); Courtesy of south moon under (kenneth cole one-piece bandeau swimsuit); Courtesy of shopbop.com (3.1 Phillip Lim leather shorts); Courtesy of ashley in DC (Lettich); Courtesy of a lacey perspective (maffetone); Courtesy of The fashionably broke (Pinto sisters); Courtesy of spicycandydc (ananieva); Courtesy of district of chic (e); Courtesy of Chain Strap purse (Coglianese)
(April 2013)