We asked fashion expert Nicole Cashman to sum up the trends for us.
First, bold colors, almost neon at tines. But, especially for men, they have to work together well. So choose a single family of colors, and make them work together in layers. Layering is particularly important in spring because weather goes from cool in the morning to hot in the afternoon then cool again at night. The layered look shows up in dress-up- for women, but here it involves sheer fabrics and maybe some lace.
Hemlines may be shorter than a year ago, but anything in the middle is "in."
It depends on what works for you. Women's wear also features exposed zippers, almost as an accent or accessory. So accessorizing is minimized this year. Designers are betting that women will love "jeggings" -- leggings made from denim that have a relaxed jeans look. They're comfortable, flexible, and good-looking. These looks are showing up in all price points, but here are the particular items Cashman and Associates selected for our Action News report, with the retailers noted:
- Women's Look 1
Jeggings and Crop Tops
The skinny jean has given way to an even sleeker silhouette- Denim leggings or Jeggings. The ultra-soft material makes it a more comfortable alternative to traditional denim, but the look is more pulled-together than leggings. Pair it with an 80s-inspired cropped tee and layer with a longer tank for an updated look.- Habit Cropped Grey Crew Neck Shirt, $58
- Alternative Vintage blue racerback tank, $38
- JBrand Denim Legging Low Rise Skinny Leg, $165
Available at Denim Habit
The Promenade, 500 Route 73 South, Marlton, NJ, 856-596-2121
Suburban Square, 27 St. George's Road, Ardmore, PA 610-649-3419
- Women's Look 2
Sheer Sheer was a huge trend on the runway, but it takes a little tweaking to be wearable in reality. You can always layer a tank or a camisole underneath, but you can also choose pieces that have strategically placed sheer detailing such as sheer black lace on the back or shoulder like this navy silk tunic. Pair with sheer patterned tights to complete the look.- Eight sixty navy silk tunic with black lace, $120
Available at Denim Habit
The Promenade, 500 Route 73 South, Marlton, NJ, 856-596-2121
Suburban Square, 27 St. George's Road, Ardmore, PA 610-649-3419
- Eight sixty navy silk tunic with black lace, $120
- Women's Look 3
Brights
From bold brights to shocking neons, color is big this season. Choose one piece and pair it with basic black or neutrals and keep accessories minimal. Look for functional details done in a fashionable way, like these exposed zippers.- Loveapella Lime green zip shoulder tunic, $72
- Rockstar faded black denim legging, $122
Available at Denim Habit
The Promenade, 500 Route 73 South, Marlton, NJ, 856-596-2121
Suburban Square, 27 St. George's Road, Ardmore, PA 610-649-3419
- Men's Look 1
Mixed patterns
Patterns and prints are key for Spring, especially when they are mixed together. The key is to keep it all in the same color family. This orange and blue button down strikes the right contrast when layered with a striped Henley and blue hoodie. Soft grey jeans finish the look with more polish than the traditional blue.- RVCA Romero Raw Grey Denim, straight leg, $75
- Scotch & Soda Plaid buttondown shirt, $89.50
- Scotch & Soda long sleeve striped Henley, $79.50
- Alternative Apparel long-sleeve light blue hoodie, $42
- Available at: South Moon Under
1731 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 215-563-2298
205 West Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA, 610-964-9064 http://www.southmoonunder.com
- Men's Look 2
Bold color
Brights aren't just for the girls. Color is key for men as well. Temper a bold plaid shirt with a dark tee in soft organic cotton and distressed blue jeans. Top it off with a pinstriped hat for a masculine look that can take you anywhere.- Gorin Bros Pinstriped ivy flat cap, $38
- RCVA Republic Plaid shirt, $55
- 7 For All Mankind "Austyn" Straight Leg Jeans, $215.00
- Available at: South Moon Under
1731 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 215-563-2298
205 West Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA, 610-964-9064 http://www.southmoonunder.com
