Fashion Styling Advice

With Michelle Bradley

The runways have spoken. Colour will rule this spring/summer. From pastels to vibrant hues and everything in between. And, no matter the colour, the prints and patterns are equally as bold.

Perfecting prints

The key this season is to mix prints. You can layer the prints on your top half. For example, try a coloured checked vest over a floral shirt. Or, be bold and wear patterns from head to toe, try a floral blouse with striped pants. Make the look cohesive by ensuring that the colours in the different pieces you’re wearing have similar tones, or, one common colour. Match one of the colours with your accessories to bring the look together.

Prints this season are a mixed bag. Gingham and checks continue to be a popular choice, as are ‘throwback’ prints, such as colourful 60s motifs and bold chevron stripes.

Love layers

When it comes to spring dressing, go for fuss-free pieces that will slot seamlessly into your transeasonal wardrobe.

Midi dresses that can be layered with a semi-sheer, long-sleeved top underneath, or a blazer over top are a favourite. Wear your jewellery over your layers, for example, a chunky necklace over a turtle neck or your watch worn over a sleeve. These are looks that will take you from day to night, and are suitable for that early evening temperature drop. Dress down with a sneaker, or up with a heel.

The humble shirt dress has made a strong comeback. This is a shape that suits many figures and can be worn in a number of ways. Wear it done up with a tie or a belt for a more fitted look, or leave it open and wear it with jeans and a top underneath. From silk to linen, you will see the shirt dress available in many textiles and colours this season.

A spring in your step

The chunky combat boots that dominated winter are still very much ‘in’ this month. But, as we head away from the cooler months, more colours are available. Instead of black, opt for a spring colour like cream, white, or green.

The chunky look extends through to shoes. Loafers, mules and even clogs are great transeasonal options, perfect for wearing at the office and for running errands.

When dressing up, the thin strappy stiletto is out. Instead, look out for heels with thicker and fuller straps, knots, twists and even quilt detailing across the foot. Not only are they stylish, but they are also more comfortable – win!

Colour is key for your shoes too. While the classic look of a white sneaker or a tan sandal will probably never go out of style, coloured shoes are trending and there certainly are some showstoppers around. Lilac, pink and gold are great colours for lifting your whole spring look.

Enjoy the longer days and have fun with your fashion this season.