Fashion Trends

WHAT: One-of-a-Kind Accessories Online Sample Sale @ Gilt

WHY: One-of-a-Kind Accessories up to 60% off!

WHEN: 4/13 12pm – 4/15 12am

WHERE: Gilt.com

*To sign up & access the sales, please click here.

Shop Top Designer Brands at up to 60% off retail on Gilt.com

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: these days, the weather is rough, gnarly and monotonous. Spring 2014 trends, though, are anything but.

As you anticipate the warmer months, also begin looking forward to some really gorgeous things happening by way of fashion, hair and makeup. You can take your style cue from these five below trends and forget about that old, grouchy man we call winter.

Shades of Blue

This spring’s hottest hue actually leans very cool. Expect to find blue in shades such as ice, glacier, royal, navy — and everything in between — on the rack, on the runway and certainly on passers-by. While shopping, keep a lookout for anything blue, including clothes, shoes, accessories and even cosmetics, and scoop it up when you can. You’ll find it’ll remain prevalent and on trend even through the hottest days of summer.

Minimalism

In the past we’ve seen tons of intricate detail on everything from dresses to nails. This spring, forget about nitty gritty details and focus on the classic and minimal. For example, nail art is still “a thing,” but it’s morphing from a monet-level-of-detail to more simplistic designs. Think creamy beige nails with a thin stripe of gold or even a well-manicured nail with a sheer, glossy top coat. This also applies to cosmetics (focus on neutrals) and clothing.

Sporty Femme

Don’t be afraid to get in touch with your more sporty side this spring. One of 2014’s hottest trends is blending — with care — aspects of femininity and athleticism. The key is to take a flirty look and then incorporate unexpected sporty touches from head to toe. For example, you can add athletic touches to classic silhouettes with see-through patches, sheaths and sweaters. Or you can try adding eye-catching color-blocking to more traditional lace for a look that’s very of-the-moment.

Soft and Sheer

Embrace see-through fabrics this Spring 2014, ladies. And no, you don’t have to bare a ton of skin just to participate in the sheer trend. For example, wear a lacy cardigan or blouse over a camisole in a neutral color, or opt for very soft, billowy fabrics that are easy to lounge in and look very runway. To really stand out in a crowd, opt for very clean colors and silhouettes.

Everyday Exotic

If you’re going to wear a print this Spring 2014, let it be an exotic one. Trending now are prints inspired by exotic textures, old-school dye techniques and traditional patterns from around the world. These prints are thoughtfully designed and make it difficult to figure out their origins, only adding to their intrigue. It’s almost as if the conversational prints from last spring went on vacation somewhere warm and came back looking more interesting – and easier to wear.

Creating a checklist of fashion staples isn’t some way of making everyone conform to a certain type of style. On the contrary, wardrobe staples create a foundation for every person’s wardrobe which, in turn, allows them to express themselves however they want with the other clothes and accessories they purchase.

Today we’re detailing a list of men’s wardrobe must-haves; items that will ensure he always has something to build a stylish outfit around. Whether you’re studying up for yourself, a friend, a parent or a special someone, you’ll definitely come away with some shopping inspiration. We suggest you take notes.

A White Dress Shirt

The crisper and whiter this dress shirt is, the better. It’s easy to layer and accessorize and goes with pretty much everything. This is a good staple for women, too. Make sure you keep your white dress shirt pressed and spotless because anything less will read sloppy.

Crew Neck Tee

In addition to a crisp, white dress shirt, make sure you’ve got several crew neck tees in your wardrobe, as well. Choose whatever colors you’re drawn to most. The more neutral (red, white, black, blue, brown), though, the easier they’ll be to style. Wear them under blazers, cardigans or even on their own.

Dark Denim Jeans

This is another wardrobe staple that works for both sexes. Dark denim jeans that fit impeccably are timeless and, again, easy to pair with whatever else is hanging in your closet. Don’t hesitate to invest in a quality pair — just make sure they’re not embellished, as trendy items don’t have as long of a shelf life.

Chino Pants

If you’re not wearing a pair of jeans, the Chino pants are likely going to be the next article of clothing you reach for when dressing yourself in the morning. They’re classy, timeless and neutral. In other words: they are versatile and easy to style.

Fitted Blazer

Like a fitted shirt or pair of jeans, a blazer is another one of those wardrobe staples you just can’t skip. Even if you’re unsure about how much wear it’ll get, give this one a chance, as its versatility may surprise you. You can wear it over that crisp tee or crew neck or you can even dress up a printed tee with it. Neutral colors and unembellished designs are your best bet when it comes to longevity.

BONUS: Knee-Length Shorts

We felt the need to add one more item to our list: knee length shorts. While this one’s not a must have like the other items on our list are, they’re one of those pieces that’ll serve men ages 20 to 40 very well. We suggest buying a pair or two in neutral colors. They’re easy to dress up or down and will get you through the warm months in cool style.

Would you add or subtract anything from our list of men’s wardrobe staples? And if you’re a women, what are your thoughts on a man with excellent fashion taste? Does it make him more desirable? On the flip side, does a lack of style sense deter you from pursuing him?

Image credit: via Pinterest (paranormalbites.com, theberry.com, Olivier Berger,  tomandlorenzo.com, LMM)

By Wendy Rose Gould

WHAT: RED Valentino Online Sample Sale @ Gilt

WHY: RED Valentino Clothing & Accessories up to 60% off!

WHEN: 3/17 12pm – 3/19 12am

WHERE: Gilt.com

*To sign up & access the sales, please click here.

Shop Top Designer Brands at up to 60% off retail on Gilt.com