Set The Trend For Spring 2010

Amidst the wind and hail, spring has snuck itself upon Lakewood and with it comes rib cook-offs, fresh flowers and best of all, the perfect weather for dressing up. Spring is a time for proms, weddings and garden parties. What better way to usher in a new spring than to attend your special event in style. These looks are can work with any body shape and budget. Whether you are a Wall Flower or an Earth Child, there is something for every style.

Classic
If your hair is never out of place and you pride yourself on never going out of style, then show your elegance with a black and white ensemble accented by a tidy headband and embellished ballet flats. Keep jewelry simple. If texture is what you crave, sequined flesh tones and antique metallics will have you turning heads everywhere you go.

Earth Child
Love mother earth and all her lovely children? Then embrace this eclectic global style. Earth tones in a variety of prints and textures represent your status as an appreciator of culture. Scarf dresses are a great way to create a sense of grace and movement. Piece together accessories of all origins and materials to balance out your look.

Rocker Girl
Black + Leather + Studs = Attitude. This season big shoulders amplify the look even more. To really get the message across, finish off your look with metal chains and boots. If you are just a Rocker In Training, work in this look by incorporating belts, zippers and shoes that echoed the attitude.

The Flirt
Think you have to show a lot of skin to be a flirt? Think again. Draw the eye by subtly enhancing your best features. A dress with a low back is universally flattering. Try to find one with an interesting detail to really call attention to the area. If legs are your asset, then show it! Just make sure the rest of the dress is less revealing. Same goes for decolletage. Fun sunglasses, animal print accessories and wedges show your sense of fun and confidence. And what is sexier than that?

Trend Spotter
Being a trend spotter is hard work. Reward yourself by indulging in the amazing colors now available in apparel and makeup. Think fun, colorful and loud. Try mixing 2 to 3 bright eye shadows or grab a dress that resembles Joseph’s amazing technicolor dream coat. Just remember to tone down the other aspects of your look or else the other party goers will mistake you for a time traveler from the 80’s.

Wall Flower
The sweetest trend of the season is soft, bouncy, and floral. Think chiffons, organza and tulle for texture; pastels for color; and country flowers for patterns. This innocent and ethereal look will keep you from ever blending into the wall. Accessories should be kept at a minimum lest they distract. Flesh tone shoes complement and elongate the figure. If you are not a girly-girl, join in the fun by pinning flowers (better if they’re real!) into a loose updo or tousled waves.

Wrap Up
The looks for this spring are endless and there are a number of great trends to be discovered. The key to a great look is to wear at least one item that really catches the eye. And always make sure to balance your look so you are not overpowered by your clothes. Wear it with a sense of adventure and a sense of confidence and you will be admired.

If you are in the market for high end items, you might look to former Virginia Marti student, Ali Rahimi's line Mon Atelier out in LA. But if you don't have the bank account to join A-list Hollywood celebrities in donning Rahimi's gowns to major award shows, not to worry. Looking great does not have to break the bank and Lakewood offers a variety of value conscious options. Try Lion and Blue or Local Girl Gallery for one of a kind jewelry. Or see what gems can be found at The Eclectic Mixx or Haute Stuff. Of course, if you are really creative venture into Virginia Marti College of Art and Design to check out their designer discount fabrics, or even sign up for a class!

Some ideas include: The Designer Consigner; Cerny Shoes; Lion and Blue; Torry's Threads; Dots; Cosmic Collectables; Deja Vu; Local Girl Gallery; Geiger's Clothing and Sports; The Mission Boutique; Chain Link Addiction; Payless; Virginia Marti; Green Smart Gifts; Jo-Ann Fabrics; The Eclectic Mixx

Alexis Li has studied History of Art and Fashion Design at The Ohio State University and Kent State University.

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Volume 6, Issue 10, Posted 8:25 AM, 05.19.2010