By Natasha Mayinda, Fashion Editor

 

 

Spring has always been a season marked with a sense of optimism and exuberance and this season will not be any different and in fact may give more cause for optimism and enthusiasm, as the spring collections that are just now hitting the stores are connected by a universal and underlying theme of celebration. Sexy, sensual dressing, soldierly styles, and sporty, surf- inspired looks bursting with energy are just some of the key trends that will instantly inject a sense of cheerfulness into your wardrobe.

 

One of the stronger trends is the surf inspired look, boasting marine prints and shapes, which are combined with sporty couture silhouettes that simulate travel to exotic destinations. Alexander McQueen’s aqueous print creations are directional, but irresistibly inspirational. Curvilinear cuts and organic forms make the dresses simply breathtaking. Proenza Schouler’s collection is all about scuba chic with its youthful, acid tie dye tops and tank dresses in aquamarine tones and textures. If this is the image that you want to create and you do not want to break the bank, then Gryphon Vein’s sequined tank top in blue marine is a great buy, and then you can match it with a pair of low slung pants for downtown cool. Another great selection would be the wetsuit inspired body conscious dress from Alexander Wang’s Ponte stretch dress, teamed with a neon hued clutch.

 

This spring season also features the dynamic energy and military look of the urban warrior and clothes that take charge are included in dozens of collections, most notably that of Balmain and Celine, with its utility jackets, cargo pants and epaulets which have exploded onto the runways, with their own contemporary twists. The utility jacket gets a chic makeover with an asymmetrical hem at Twenty Eight Twelve and cargo pants are skinny and they are paired only with fierce heels for Balmain. As for the epaulets they appear on both highly polished jackets and chiffon shirts by Celine. For those fashion seekers who are budget conscious, the Banana Republic offers gear inspired pieces at more affordable prices, such as some personal favorites; crinkle trench coats with epaulets and versatile skinny crop chinos. Boot camp training is optional, but it is highly recommended.

 

Those who prefer to march through the spring with pretty frills and romantic pieces have plenty of options to choose from, as this season lingerie becomes outerwear, with transparency and ruffles in abundance. Valentino’s take on dark romance is breathtakingly enchanting, while Nina Ricci’s delivers a delightfully sweet but sassy collection.  Flashes of bustier and delicate slips provide a sensualist escape for the wearers and the boudoir look is best worn after dusk. When you layer them as Valentino has it creates a more arresting effect. If you dare to wear a sheer blouse, such as a Joie Luciana top during the day, you can sharpen that look with a tailored boyfriend blazer. Keep your look sophisticated by avoiding overexposure. You want to invite beautiful illusion instead cat calling.

 

Poetry in motion is clearly evident in Giambattista Valli’s dreamy, frilly frocks.  Flirty silhouettes and bold ruffles will inevitably bring out the romantic side of you and they will definitely guarantee you an unforgettable entrance. You will feel positively feminine and lovely in Lanvin’s dresses with their dramatic ruffle-like spirals. The Giambattista Valli collection oozes glamour and it is designed with the modern woman in mind. A Milly Ruffle dress is equally sensational for any cocktail occasion and at a fraction of the cost.  You can embellish your appearance with jet black stilettos and oxidized crystal bracelets. If you are looking for a new little black dress, then try a Carven asymmetric dress with a ruffled peplum which looks smoldering, but flattering on most body types. The key here is to keep your look effortless and light.

 

This spring designers have created clothes for which they are known and in a fashion by which their customers have identified them in the past; with Valentino’s beautiful cocktail dresses and Michael Kors’s sportswear. The styles have never been more accessible and yet they are striking and appealing. This spring’s clothes are decidedly celebratory and empowering, and whether you are an urbanite, a bohemian, or a romantic, there is something for you that will highlight your individuality and uniqueness, which ultimately is the raison d'être for fashion.

 

Fashion Editor Natasha Mayinda is a Fashion Designer and the Creative Director for her own company. She specializes in exquisite cocktail and evening wear. She is a graduate of both the University of British Columbia and the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. She lives on Canada's west coast, in Vancouver, Canada www.natashamayinda.com

 

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