From Runway to Your Way
Posted: 4/28/2008

This season promises to be playful- the colors are bold and bright, but more importantly, the options are endless. Fortunately, you can find subtle ways to incorporate the looks we saw on the catwalks into your everyday wardrobe without all the fuss. Look like a superstar without needing a stylist by trying some of these top trends.

A Hemline For Everyone: This season, try a new twist on length. Break all the rules by wearing the floor length, yet super casual “maxi dress” for daytime errands. With a pair of flats, simple accessories and unfussy hair, you will look chic yet carefree. If you're more interested in showing off those legs that have been hibernating all winter, try a daring pair of hot shorts for a night out as a great alternative to the thigh-high miniskirt (try Baby Phat's Belted Pinstripe Cuff Short, $69, babyphat.com).

                                

 

Wide Leg Pants: Last season was all about the skinny jean and while they're still around, it's time to try her more flattering counterpart, the wide leg pant (try J Brand's 'Shoreman' jean in Indigo, $217, jbrandjeans.com). It's universally flattering; a higher waistline is preferred making it a more modest look. If you're petite, pair this with some sky high heels to avoid getting lost under all of the volume.

 

 

Boho Chic: Avoid looking like you are wearing a costume from the '70s by pairing your modern fashions with bohemian pieces. An easy way to incorporate this look is wearing casual, wavy or braided hairstyles and lots of bangles on your wrists.

 

Photo courtesy of forever21.com

Patent and Metallics: Although we usually see these looks during winter, super shiny patents and metallics have found their way into spring as well. Since all over patent can be a little too aggressive, trying popping on a patent sandal (try Nine West's 'Olavera' sandal in black patent or metallic gold as shown, $89, ninewest.com) to complete any outfit or wearing a metallic bag in your favorite color.

 

Brights: Picking a signature color this season is easy with all of the choices available. Try a splash of bright yellow or orange for a look that is bold and statement-making (try the 'Long & Lean Capsleeve Tee” from Express, $24.50, expressfashion.com). Just make sure to tone down the color with a great pair of jeans or a bright white pant to avoid looking too monochromatic.

Fun Florals: Look fresh and fun in a floral patterned dress or flouncy skirt. This look is perfect for a daytime date or night out with the girls (try Ella Moss's silk 'Phoebe' dress, $322, shopnordstrom.com) . Wear florals to evoke a hint of romance and feminine charm.

 

Sporty: The classic, American sportswear look gets a makeover in tailored white styles, this season's hottest hue (try Converse's One-Star Straight Leg Jean in True White featured at Target, $32.99, target.com).

 

Ethnic prints: Check into safari inspired jewelery, shoes and accessories to add punch to any look. Thick, stacked bangles in jewel tones, gladiator sandals (try a pair with fewer straps for an accessible look like Steve Madden's 'Bask' sandal, $89.95, stevemadden.com) and printed tunic tops pair perfectly with this season's shorts, print dresses and simply draped jerseys, creating an intriguing look.

 

-Julie Spittle
julie@detroitfashionpages.com

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