New York fashion designers are flourishing in a season of new beginnings, using surprising neutrals with splashes of colour.  Grey was an important colour this fall and is continuing to have a strong presence for spring.   If you think grey is too dark for spring you are mistaken.  Pairing it with crisp white makes it “pop”.  Surprisingly, grey is actually an easy colour to wear.   Try it and I guarantee you will like it!

Nothing says spring like navy and white.  You will continue to see navy into next fall, so don’t be worried that it will be out as soon as it’s in.

Nude is the non-colour of the season.  Pair it with black in the evening and you are good to go.

The skinny on jeans is that the narrow stove pipe leg is here to stay, at least for a while.   I know most of you don’t feel you can wear them because you think your hips are too big, or your legs are too short, or you’re just too old.  I had a customer in the store just the other day who was in her 50’s and she looked faboulus wearing her skinnies.

Here are a few tips if you want to stay up to date with your style.  Pick a pair of jeans that don’t have too low of a rise; Esprit and Manager are both great choices.  Stick to either dark or black denim; they are much more flattering.  Pick a top that is going to emphasize your chest area.  An empire top is perfect.  Make sure the top is long enough to cover at least the top half of your backside.  This gives the illusion that your butt is actually way smaller than it is.   If you don’t feel comfortable in an empire top, cinch a wide belt on a long top and it will give you the proportion you need.  For daytime, add a pair of ballerina flats and in the evening pick a pair of pointy heels.

If you don’t want to do the “skinny”, spring’s must-have pants are strictly tailored, superlean, and slashed just north of the ankles.

I can’t say enough about shorts this season.  Even for you business ladies, the look is fabulous!   A navy suit jacket with a cuffed tailored short takes you into the “now”. 

Last but not least, purchase an extra-large tote.  Purses are fabulous this season; Nine West has some great ones to choose from.  Be daring and try a white bag, but make sure you put it away in the fall.

Hopefully by the time you read this article the sun will be shining, spring will be well under way and you’ll be inspired to try some of the new looks for the season.  Remember ladies, always take time to look after yourself and look your best.

Erica Hughes is the owner of the Get Dressed,
Parkgate Shopping Centre, North Vancouver.

Copyright North Shore Magazine Issue Apr - May 07