Winter Doldrums/Spring Trends

It’s been chilly and gray here in Central California. I know I shouldn’t complain about temps in the low 50s compared to what I used to get in Boston growing up, but still, it’s cold and bleak.

As much as I love my jeans and boots and coats and leather, I was thinking how nice it will be when the weather warms up a bit. If only it would stay in the 80s instead of continuing to rise into triple digits in July and August. But before we bemoan the intensely hot summers, let’s pause to enjoy spring. Here in Fresno the blossoms in all the orchards are just beautiful. The pink and green blooms, the smell in the air – it’s an exquisite rebirth.

To pull me out of my winter doldrums, I’m looking forward to the following spring trends:

Suede

Suede may not seem like a spring fabric, but it adds a soft touch (and a hint of 70s chic) to anything from dresses to jackets to pants this spring.

Valentino

Gucci

Fringe

Fringe was all over the runways last fall as designers played with movement for spring. You can always incorporate a fringe handbag if the clothing is too wild for your taste.

Sonia Rykiel

Giambattista Valli

Gingham

Brigitte Bardot famously wore a pink gingham dress when she got married. This checked fabric is back in style, but wear it cautiously. You don’t want to resemble a picnic table cloth.

Diane von Furstenberg

Altuzarra

Denim

This is probably the most American textile around. Spice it up a little by not just wearing jeans – choose a denim dress or stilettos instead.

Bottega Veneta

Michael Kors

OK, I’m getting off my shoebox now.