It’s almost that time of the year when we pack away our jerseys and winters coats as we create wardrobe space for the upcoming warmer days of spring and summer. Here are our favourite spring 2014 must-have fashion trends:
Culotte
This calf-skimming pants has made a return just in time for spring. Seen on the runways of Fashion Week, the culotte is a wide-legged pants, traditionally cut below the knee or mid-calf. For a casual look, wear your culotte with a boxy floral top, or opt for a pair of heels and a silky blouse to complete the perfect office look.
Birkenstocks
Once a wardrobe staple of grunge dressers in 90’s and hippies in the 60’s, this two-strapped sandal is once again back in style. Dubbed the sandal of the season, the Birkenstock inspired sandal has been resurrected by designers such as Giambattista Valli, Givenchy’s Riccardo Tisci and Céline’s Phoebe Philo. These sleek slip-ons are incredibly comfortable and look great with just about anything from distressed denims and shorts, to dresses and overalls.
Crop Tops
Designers have been flirting with this 90s trend for a while, but they’re everywhere this season. Surprisingly versatile, this skin baring trend is not just for those with wash-board abs. The trick is to wear them with pencil skirts and high-waist pants, to reveal only a sliver of skin. For those of you who feel a little uneasy about showing a bit of skin, pair the crop top with a blazer, or layer a loose crop top over a fitted camisole.
Ladylike Lace
Whether cutwork, crochet or eyelet, nothing says femininity like a little bit of lace. This classic fabric has come a long way since being the fabric used for doilies and camisoles. Turning up on the fashion radar, the runways have revealed a broad spectrum of coloured lace in neon, pastels, and rich jewel tones. Pair a vibrant lace dress with metallic heels, or pull off a chic monochrome look with a white lace blouse and black pencil skirt.
Tea-Length Skirts
Inspired by the 40s to early 60s era, this vintage trend is back with a modern twist. Also known as a midi-skirt, this skirt lays anywhere below the knee to mid-calf and has been seen on the runways of Alice + Olivia, Proenza Schouler, Christian Dior, Tracy Reese, Rebecca Minkoff and many more. With the right top and funky jewellery the tea-length skirt can go effortlessly from a day to night look. Pair this lady-like skirt with a fitted jacket and tucked in blouse, or crop top to show off a bit of skin.
The change of season brings new fashion to stores and with it the chance for you to revamp your wardrobe. Try to settle on key investment pieces that will bring the most value for your money and that will last for more than one season.
