What's Hot for spring?

April 12, 2007

Marie Green is a fashion stylist and writer from San Diego California. She is the Fashion Editor of FINE Homes and Living Magazine and her column, “Fashion Focus” has appeared in FINE Magazine as well as LaJolla Light, The Del Mar Times, Del Mar Ink, The Carmel Valley Leader, Rancho Santa Fe Record, and The Solana Beach Sun. Marie is also the co-founder of SheWants.com.

I recently attended a fascinating trend seminar put on by Fashion Group International. My friend, Sharon Waller, wife of Arden B's CEO Joel Waller, and I enjoyed an entertaining evening complete with wine, appetizers and a fabulous show. The panel of speakers, including trend specialist David Wolf and California Fashion Association Executive Director Isla Metchek, discussed the past, present and future of fashion. The most interesting takeaway -- focus on fashion is bigger than ever.

Fashion is like a pendulum; it swings back and forth with the influence of designers and trends setting the pace. The past 10 years have been about making a statement with embellishment and bling. It won't disappear, but there is a movement toward minimalist style featuring a simpler, elegantly modern look. Neutrals and various shades of beige will remain faithful favorites, but bright colors are making a comeback. The depressing, dark shadow (skulls anyone?) over fashion is lifting to reveal a new fun, upbeat attitude. Every decade there has been a major shift in fashion, usually occurring in the middle of the decade, and while it's a bit late this time, it's definitely on the way.

Retro style is popular because it is reassuring. Brands and designers we love allow us to be stylish with ease. We might not have control over what happens in the world, but we have control of our closets. There is comfort in classic and iconic styles. Casual clothes are being cleaned up, moving away from the trash and flash we've seen recently. Will anybody really miss seeing bare stomachs and raggedy jeans? Active wear will remain key, with sport-inspired influence. Metallics are also an essential trend moving forward. David Wolf says denim will diminish to just a basic role, but I say, no way! Like most women, I love my jeans and will continue to wear them often.

On the horizon, there will be more eco-styling, which is fantastic-we can shop and save the planet at the same time. Also, there is movement toward a democratization of fashion, meaning, "mix it up" (remember #10 on my last column's list of ways to update your look?). I like to invest in basics and build with trendy accessories. Remember you can buy less expensive items in black or white because it is harder to tell them apart from the more pricy pieces.

I am having so much fun with spring fashion. Here are my seven favorite spring trends:

  1. Dresses: check out the gorgeous selection at The Back Room (on Via de la Valle, across from Albertsons).
  2. Statement rings: my friend Amy has a chunky David Yurman ring that she gets compliments on constantly.
  3. Anything metallic: but not more than two different pieces at a time.
  4. Pencil skirts: classic and sexy.
  5. A crisp white shirt: dress it up or down.
  6. Flat shoes: Tory Burch has the most comfortable, chic flats.
  7. Oversized classic watches: like they're borrowed from your grandfather.