Trends this spring run the gamut from retro-inspired separates to brightly colored, playful frocks and lightweight patterned jackets. In honor of the upcoming film The Great Gatsby, designers reinterpreted metallic fringe dresses made for movement and a flapper attitude. Vacations to the tropics led to neon blouses, colorfully concocted ensembles, and head-to-toe wildflower suiting. And although one may not walk down Wisconsin Avenue in a pink ’50s peplum dress, there are many ways to interpret the season’s trends to suit a new spring wardrobe.
Rest on Your Florals
Floral patterns remain a spring must-have, but the latest creations have amped up the style quotient in a variety of pastels and deep, rich shades, as well as photo-printed, artful masterpieces combined with sharp silk satin and taffeta textiles. Cynthia Rowley provides an edgy interpretation of a floral printed pantsuit, while Ralph Lauren supports 1920s daywear with pastel floral dresses and cloche caps. Aimee Wolpin-Evans, design director at Brooks Brothers, envisions Washington reemerging after months bundled in layers. “Prints and patterns for spring are a major message, with floral patterns topping the list of must-haves. The print floral dress is a breath of fresh air after the long winter and perfect for the DC woman on-thego. It is ultra feminine without being too fussy. You can tie the bow in the back or the front of the dress, which adds additional versatility. It can be worn with a stacked heel sandal, or in more corporate environments with one of our blazers or sweaters. It would be fun to pair it with one of our really bright sea-island cotton pointelle cardigans.” Tysons Corner Center, 703-556-6566
Bright Turn Ahead
Bright colors and neons may seem bold for the office, but paired with a neutral pant or a subtle jacket in a contrasting hue, the ensemble will look updated and chic as the warmer months roll in. As seen on the runways of Nanette Lepore, Oscar de la Renta, and Salvatore Ferragamo, bursts of color can be worked into many outfits, either as full looks or paired with a black jacket or a deeper shade within the same color family. Tom Mora, head of women’s design at J.Crew, played up the use of brighter elements for the latest collection, stating, “Spring is all about color, incredible brights and neons; dressing head to toe in one color, or wearing two brights together. But there are many ways to incorporate color into your wardrobe. It is just about choosing what works for your environment and your personal style—from a bright lipstick or a colored shoe to a full, bold look. Also, we really love the idea of wearing a print from top to bottom—it’s like a new uniform.” 3222 M St. NW, 202-965-4090
His Story Repeats
Menswear-inspired separates and accessories remain a growing inspiration on the runways this spring, much to the advantage of fashion-forward working women on the Hill or those looking to step up sartorial attitudes on K Street. A pastel jacket or blazer combines an airy dose of femininity and structure while loafers or smoking slippers provide stability in a sleek, modern approach to flat footwear. In a variety of patterns, colors, and styles, the menswear trend remains a go-to season after season, harboring the power of reinvention as well as the ability to transform appearances. A standard black loafer worn throughout the fall and winter months, for example, reappears this spring in shades of lavender or mint, breathing new life into the trend for the spring season. Muléh’s managing partner and creative director, Vici Subiyanto, seeks conservative separates that have a bit of a feminine edge when buying looks for the hip boutique. “I love this staple Westwood Red Label twist on a menswear classic. This sorbet-flavored periwinkle lightweight Prince of Wales wool suit pays homage to a high-waisted era, but with a cropped leg. The jacket features a draped lapel, which works perfectly as a separate, offering functionality our DC clientele is always looking for.” 1831 14th St. NW, 202-667-3440
