Dear Mattie:
What are the trends for dressing up?
— Seriously into Styling in Seymour
Dear Seriously:
I am seeing many trends this spring. There is definitely an overload of shapes and styles. The silhouette isn't strict this season. There are many silhouettes that are trendy, depending on the look that you are going for.
The best way to embrace this season is to consider the classics from the different genres. The best of every decade is in fashion this year. Mix and match your decades and you will modernize the classics into your fashion world.
Let's start with the 1950s. Fit and flare is in fashion. The top is fitted and the bottom is flared. The top can be anything you like, from a basic top to a shirt, but it must be tucked in. The bottom must have pleats - the larger the better - for the flare effect. All this is pulled together at the waist to show the contrast of the shape. Top off this outfit with a denim jacket and you are mix and matching the decades of fashion trends.
The '80s present a boxier shape. Prints are modern and bold, which makes many of these pieces look larger. This is not a delicate look. Pleats on the bottoms are used to expand the skirt or pant. Shoulder pads, smaller pleats and ruffles are used to inflate the top. The pants have a higher waistband and the tops are slightly cropped.
The '90s minimalist look is also in fashion in spite of the big shapes and prints. If long, sleek and tailored is your style, then you are in luck because this also is in fashion. Wear fewer colours in lighter fabrics to get the sleek and long look. Your top and bottom should match. This look also has a waistline, but it is less edgy. Skirts fall to the bottom of the knee to midcalf. Your pant leg can reach your lower ankle with a linen fabric or fall even lower to your heel with a lighter fabric that flows.
This season is not about vintage looks; it is about modernizing the classics. There are two other fashion trends that can be incorporated into the decade themes, allowing for a modern interpretation of the current trends. They are lightweight fabrics and tribal dressing.
This ladylike trend encompasses lighter fabrics in the form of sheer chiffon, delicate lace and gauzy cotton. These fabrics can be worn in any of the decade trends that I previously mentioned. They also have tone-on-tone prints and layering to create depth and interest.
The other trend is the "international woman of style." This look is inspired by patterns and prints from Africa and the Middle East. There are earth tones in the prints, but this is not a muddy look. Red, orange and yellow are injected to enhance the earth tones. This is also a long and layered look.
This season sees a hip cross-referencing of trends. It is bold and edgy with street style. There is a lot of opportunity to wear the trends and maintain a unique personal style.
Adieu
Mattie
Mattie is a freelance writer and fashion expert. Reach her on her Facebook page or follow her on Pinterest at Mattie a la Mode.
