Holly Bell, Maxx Models & Talent Owner
Holly Bell 802 5/20/24
What’s Not to Love?
Midwesterners look forward to Spring like children look forward to Christmas. Every day is a beautiful gift of hope. From the fresh green shoots coming up in our yards, to the warm breezes that make us shed our jackets, Spring is a time when everyone starts planning events. Easter, Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, Weddings, Class Reunions. This means it is time to start thinking about what we need to spruce up our Spring and Summer outfits!
A sporty sensibility has been the trend and will continue to reign as women love to be comfortable and classic but modern, fresh and elevated. The favored pant of the season you may already have in your closet. It’s a high waisted, moderately flared leg pant. Usually in black but now offered in Spring colors too. This pant is wonderfully flattering on all body types. One important point is that the length is very important. Flares are leg lengthening if they are long to the point of meeting the floor. Even if they puddle a bit, that is OK. This is such a versatile piece; you can wear it literally anywhere in the world and look trendy.
The loose pants are still important and there will be a lot of great choices out there, especially in white. From jeans to tailored styles, the white pant will be another great summer option and it will be everywhere looking fresh and summery. To go with that great summer pant is a trend that Glamour magazine calls “Coastal Cool”. This is a mixture of nautical and preppy. Go ahead and indulge in stripes, gold buttons, sailor flares, boat shoes and cardigans. Even if you don’t summer in Nantucket, it’s OK to look like you do! Ironically, the other popular pant of the season will be the slim pant. Not a skinny pant like the leggings of the past, but a trim fitting. tailored pant that is perfect for work or a more dressy occasion.
I am personally not a pastel person, but for some reason, the petal pinks, baby blues and even the new pistachio green are looking good this year. These colors are especially good if you are feeling a little boho. What exactly is Bohemian style anyway? It consists of what I like to call a little hipster fun. Boho-chic draws inspiration from free-spirited artists and travelers. It is relaxed and carefree with an emphasis on connecting with nature using natural materials, earth tones, and eclectic patterns. One of the key elements to boho style is layering. Mixing different textures, colors and patterns allows for endless creativity. Floppy hats, headbands, fringed bags, and leather belts enhance the boho aesthetic. Fell a little shy about trying this? Start out with a boho midi length skirt of natural fiber, add a soft white shirt, a leather belt, strappy sandals and beaded jewelry. Boho- Chic perfection without too much commitment.
Another hot off the runway trend is to wear these beautiful pastel shades with contrasting dark tones. This juxtaposition is really hot this year, mixing the airy with the hard-edged. For example, a pink skirt with a wide black belt and black shoes would be the style.
Dresses are always important for summer. Find the perfect one and you can wear it multiple times on multiple occasions with just a change of accessories. One and done. There is nothing wrong with your favorite LBD, (little black dress), but Spring and Summer is the time to experiment with some soft yellows, petal pinks, or the summer super popular all white dress. A simple body skimming linen dress is always in vogue. Or look for a more romantic style with details such as ruffles, soft tailoring, and puffy sleeves. I personally like a dress hem around the knee, that seems to be the most flattering for all heights and body types. Of course, if you like a midi length or longer, go for it!
Accessories can make or break an outfit. What to look for this year? Oversized sunglasses reminiscent of Jackie O will be everywhere. Tailored belting has been back the last couple of years but this year look for chunky statement belts with rhinestone embellishments, large gold closures along with leopard and other animal prints. Handbags look futuristic in metallics and transparencies. Layered and stacked jewelry in bold styles featuring beads and chunky mixed
metals.
Personal style is what it’s all about this year. Feel free to be your true self even if your true self changes daily! One day you may feel glamourous, another day you may be feeling a bohemian vibe, and another day you may just want to be sporty and simple. Spring is a good time to indulge yourself a little and have fun with your creativity.
