5 Key Fashion Trends For Spring
While the world feels like a different place than it did just a few weeks ago, one thing remains unchanged: dressing up can be a whole lot of fun, and even help create a sense of normalcy. Shaking up your closet with a few on-trend pieces is a great way to keep things fresh for spring. Whether you’re yearning for the light-hearted vibe of breezy fabrics, the functional ease of utilitarian chic or '70s-inspired silhouettes and patterns, we've got you covered. Also on the menu? Balloon leg jeans and chunky chain link accessories. Read on for the full scoop on this season's hottest trends, plus a few affordable options to shop now.
Trend: Breezy Fabrics
Breezy fabrics are an easy way to get your wardrobe ready for warmer days. Eyelet—this season’s prettiest detail—has been given a new look via bright colours and sculptural shapes, while crochet garments have also made a comeback, endorsed by high-fashion labels like Alexander McQueen and Fendi. If you're looking for a delicate look, pointelle—a type of lightweight knit with lace-like openwork—is also big this spring.
For a laid-back vibe, pair these must-haves with other easy-breezy textures, like denim or brushed cotton.
Trend: Utilitarian Chic
We don't know about you, but we're craving simplicity right now—the clean lines, neutral tones and functional details of the utilitarian trend suddenly feel just right. Cognac, beige and khaki green dominate the minimalist style, and key design accents include cargo pockets, epaulettes, built-in belts and eye-catching buttons.
It doesn’t mean bold colours should be entirely excluded from this season's palette—accessories in vibrant hues (think: orange, red and yellow) can help any utilitarian outfit get in formation.
Banana Republic
Heritage Reissue Bahia Dress, $129, bananarepublic.ca. Available April 14th.
Trend: Balloon Jeans & Paperbag Pants
Swap out your skinny and straight leg jeans for this spring’s hottest new denim cut: the balloon leg jeans. The style's hallmarks include a cinched high-waist fit and a rounded cut that curves outward over hips and tapers in at the ankles. And if jeans aren't your thing, give the paper-bag trousers a try for a similar effect. Not convinced? You should know that Jennifer Lopez is already a fan.
With this voluminous shape, the rise is crucial to achieving the most flattering fit. To elongate your silhouette, pick a high-rise style that sits well above the hips. And a belt helps, too! If your paper-bag pants have a built-in sash, tying it to the side gives off a cool, laid-back vibe. With jeans, adding belt in a contrasting tone emphasizes your waist. Don’t overthink the rest—choose a simple top, tuck it in and you’re done.
Trend: A ’70s Groove
SS20 runway shows were filled with throwback styles, but it's the groovy prints and silhouettes of the 1970s seen at Gucci and Etro that caught our eye. To embrace the look, opt for earthy tones, with hits of golden yellow, avocado green and burnt orange. Handcrafted elements, such as embroidery, top stitching and smocking, are making a comeback as part of the trend, but it's the silhouettes that are most recognizable—we're talking bell sleeves, swingy midi length skirts and flared jeans.
To avoid looking like you're wearing a costume, your best bet is to integrate one '70s trend piece with your current essentials. Pair a floral smock top with your favourite skirt or wear a new pair of flared pants with a basic t-shirt.
Trend: Chunky Chain Link
This spring, chunky chain link designs give jewelry and handbags a striking update. For statement-making pieces, choose necklaces, bracelets and earrings made from oversized flat links, elegant double loops or twisted rings. They look good worn solo for a minimal look, but chunky chain link jewelry also pairs well with more delicate adornments. For a personalized touch, it’s all about mixing metals and heft.
Large loops are also making an appearance on the newest batch of bags. Look for faux tortoiseshell accents to lend a polished touch, while colourful acrylic links are guaranteed to hype up any outfit.
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