Stylist Julia Che has fashioned six ways to send you packing your closet full of bright, shiny and very pretty fashion trends for spring!
MIXING METALS
Get Fresh: We were once told not to mix metals. This is one old-school rule that was made to be broken! It’s now a great way to personalize your jewelry statement and add a Bohemian edge. Mix any metal into your outfit: sterling silver and gold, platinum and copper, or different shades of gold.
Stack it Right: The stacking trend lends itself perfectly to mixing metals. Stack square or round rings, or bangles and multiple chain necklaces for a downtown look. Layer thin gold and silver strands together for feminine charm.
Spread the Sparkle: You can even try mixing metals with your makeup! Blend bronze and silver eyeshadows for an extreme edge.
SCARF SAVVY
The Story: The black and white “Keffiyeh Scarf,” seen on this page, traditionally represents Palestinian nationalism. Today, at least in the West, the scarf tends to be worn for style rather than substance.
Global Girl: In general, when shopping for a scarf, try to find a cotton or cotton-wool blend. Many keffiyeh scarves are a mix of cotton and wool, which keeps the wearer’s head and neck warm and allows the scarf to dry quickly. Look for lighter fabrics and colours that work with the rest of your wardrobe.
Vintage Vibe: Dig through your mom or aunt’s closet. Pashmina shawls can work well as drape-y scarves: simply wrap twice around the neck and voila!
POP A TRENCH
Back in the Day: In 1901, Thomas Burberry created a raincoat for British army officers. Burberry’s coat became part of the service uniform of and was dubbed the “trenchcoat” by the soldiers in the trenches. Today, Burberry is the most renowned trenchcoat manufacturer in the world. If you ever come across an original Burberry trench while vintage shopping, hold on to it and negotiate a good deal!
Flash Forward: The trenchcoat has become a staple. It can be dressed down in the daytime for class or coffee, and dressed up for a nighttime date or party. Worn in the spring and fall, the trench is a transitional piece that’s perfect for layering.
Body Wise: Try on different lengths when shopping for a trench. The most common length is mid-thigh because it works with every body type. There are also calf-length, hip-length, and floor-length coats. Be sure to get the right fit for your height.
SIMPLE LAYERS
Back in the Day: Most research into the origin of the T-shirt points to European and American soldiers in the First World War who found quick-drying, light cotton undershirts comfortable under their wool uniforms. Jockey first popularized the basic white tee in 1932.
Modern Girl: The basic white tee is essential to any wardrobe and can make a Vervegirl look casual and classic, but it doesn’t always have to be worn with the requisite blue jean. Take your basic white tee and layer with a slip or tube dress to maximize your wardrobe.
Tee Up: Don’t be scared to accessorize your layered look. Try wrapping your belt in a unique way or wearing a scarf. To create a complete look, match the T-shirt’s tone with another area of your outfit (eg. tee and shoe). Use your own fashion sense when selecting tones. If attempting a new layering technique for the first time, you might want to stay monochromatic. If you’re a pro then go for pops of colour and different combinations of tone and texture.
THE WORLD OF ACCESSORIES
This spring is all about accessorizing with a steady theme in mind. We’ve had loads of designer inspiration: go tribal like Marni with wood and natural materials; rock ’80s glam with bright bags and baubles à la Baby Phat, or flirt with flowers as Ralph Lauren and Sonia Rykiel chose to in their collections. Have fun, but have a plan, Vervegirls, because you don’t want to look like you’ve just been playing dress-up in mommy’s closet.
THE STAPLE DRESS
French Flair: “Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.” Since the grande dame of fashion, Coco Chanel, said these words in 1923, no one
has revolutionized the dress quite like the French. From Christian Dior to Chloé, the spring 2008 runways were awash with frocks that (simply) rocked!
Problem Solved: When you’re feeling uninspired by what’s in your closet, having a go-to garment can save you in dire times of need. Whether it’s
an off-the-shoulder shift, a white slip dress — like the one on our model in Bangkok – or a classic LBD (little black dress), this versatile piece will help you feel good and look polished on any occasion.
Design Your Details: Dress up or dress down depending on the occasion. A few small details can make a big difference, so use accent pieces – such as a chunky necklace or skinny belt – to help change the utility. The minimalism of this outfit will help keep the focus on your features, while making an effortlessly chic style statement.
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