By Jasmine Spaulding
Special to the Chronicle
As the days have finally begun to get longer and the sunshine has started to peek through the snowy haze, flowy fabrics, striking patterns and metallic footwear have begun to appear on runways and sales floors. Although the first day of spring turned out to be a tease due to the weather, it doesn’t hurt to get a sneak peek at what’s popular on the catwalk and on the street. From your favorite denim to flattering one-shoulder cuts, it’s time to thaw out, get to the mall and start filling your wardrobe with the essential looks for the upcoming season.
1. Yellow
Yellow seems to be the color of choice for spring. Before you deride it and say “not for me,” hear me out. Mellow yellows come in a lot of different hues, from canary, to mustard, to marigold, there is a shade of yellow for everyone. Wearing a yellow dress or shirt makes your outfit look effortlessly vibrant.
2. Roomy Denim
The ‘90s are making a big comeback, arguably from the influence of the late, great R&B singer Aaliyah. Jeans are a given for any season, but this spring is about cropped, baggy cuts. Keep your tops slim to create a cool contrast.
3. Gingham
As the saying goes, “Life’s a picnic.” Classy, chic and fun all in one, this ‘50s inspired pattern gives a defined, preppy and ladylike feel to your wardrobe. You can bring it into the modern day with sleek silhouettes, darker color choices or matching separates, such as a suit.
4. Black and White
Black and white is everywhere. This season’s take on this classic combination is interesting because of the various textures, patterns and silhouettes.
5. Kimono-Style Trench Coats
Feeling a little Inspector Gadget lately? Well, designers are putting a feminine touch on the trench coat, and if you’re a fan of kimonos you’ll love this combo for spring. These lightweight trench coats can be worn in the office, for a girls’ day out or a night out on the town. These are my favorite choice because they’re a comfortable, stylish mix between a robe, a proper coat and a kimono.
6. All White Everything
This simple yet distinctive trend is all about how you wear it. New styling tricks include mixing textures, layering multiple pieces and teaming various shades. As rapper Dej Loaf declares, “Rock that all white when I’m feeling godly.”
7. Military Chic
Attention! Welcome to the Army, ladies. This spring has everyone feeling like cadets with olive shades and uniform-inspired pieces. Military details such as utilitarian pockets, camouflage and desert khakis have been marching down the runways.
8. One-Shoulder Cuts
Your shoulders might be the most appealing part of your body, which is great because it borders on raunchy but it’s elegant at the same time. Show off your shoulders in these tops and dresses that are perfect for date night.
9. Culottes
In case you don’t know, culottes are a style of pant that first originated during the French Revolution as the uniform of the upper class. They are slightly longer than knee-length pants that used to be tight around the knees. Today, they’re larger around the knees, giving you the look and feel of a skirt. We are reviving this historical trend by pairing them with blazers, tailored button-downs and high heels.
10. Comfortable Footwear
Thank the fashion gods; comfortable shoes are here to stay! Designers have definitely catered to commuter-chic for this spring. Shoes are more diverse and even more versatile, colorful and exceptional than they’ve ever been before. From metallic sneakers and slides, gladiator shoes, to cut-out flats, there’s a shoe that’s comfy and edgy for everyone.
