spring fashion forward…

It may still be winter outside but spring has definitely sprung up on some of the hottest runways around the world. So while we continue to cower from the cold underneath our fur-lined parkas and shaking in our Sorrels boots, the OutVisions style team is here to tantalize your inner fashionista with some of 2012’s hottest trends.

Spring’s high octane haute couture was clearly not intended for wallflowers so please note, shrinking violets need not apply. It speaks to the boldly, fashion forward, style savvy shopper and it is sure to put a spring in the step of even the toughest critic.

Many of this season’s men’s and women’s trends are very similar in terms of color, texture and style. However, they are also frequently polar opposites. This can be confusing for even for the most educated trendsetter as they plan to purchase their warmer weather wears. 
Fortunately, the OutVisions style team has done the heavy lifting for you as you prepare to tackle those hot months ahead. We’ve scoured the shops and are taking an in-depth look at some of this season’s truly inspired, head turning looks.

Bright and Bold

A pop of bold color is a sure fire sign that spring is on its way. This is something we are seeing all over the runways. The neon obsession that has been dominating recent trends seems to be slowing down and what we are seeing more of is slightly subtle shades of some of our favorite colors. For Spring/Summer 2012, we’re eager to scoop up some of our favorite items in ice cream and sorbet colors in various shades of orange, mustards and greens. Personally, we’re ready to kick back in these relaxed fit men’s chinos from H&M. For the ladies, these tasty BDG high-rise cigarette jeans from Urban Outfitters are truly ‘mint’ and the ultimate treat for spring. 

Floral Favorites

Everything is coming up roses for floral fans this season. In previous years, we’ve seen predominately menswear inspired looks coming down the catwalk. That all appears to be changing as this spring we are witnessing a welcome return to femininity and glamour.  Head to toe floral prints and accessories are proving to be one of the top trends of 2012. A surprise trendsetter taking the lead with this is retail giant Sears and The Modern Shop. A perfect example is the soft and feminine silhouette of this simple white summer frock with crochet detailing. Then, add some of this seasons essential spring staples like this floral wedge or scarf, also from Sears. For men, H&M is offering its masculine take on the floral phenomenon with this super casual button up shirt, perfect for the weekend. 

Never Enough Navaho (and Aztec)

Punch up the color palette of your spring wardrobe with the bold hues and prominent prints found in a Navaho or Aztec piece. This current trend started making waves in 2011 and continued to gain momentum throughout fall and winter. Some of today’s most sought after designers including Isabel Marant, Diane Von Furstenberg and even Burberry have featured elements of these top two trends in some of their recent collections. The positive response created a huge demand that has resulted in many of the large chain stores cashing in with their copycat creations. H&M’s spring 2012 collection features a variety of Navaho and Aztec inspired pieces including these on trend denim shorts with Aztec pocket patchwork detail.

Picnic Perfect

For spring casual cool with a touch of class, we’ve decided to coin the phrase ‘picnic wear’.  It’s more formal than your beachwear but more casual than what you’d wear to the office. It will take you from daytime to evening with ease throughout the coming months. Enjoy the crisp clean cut of these men’s white jeans from Joe Fresh paired with a sunny fitted polo from Sears. Add a classic watch, your favorite shades and a pair of topsiders and you’ve got the perfect spring look that’s fit for any urban gent. Whether its day or night, land or sea, the cool contemporary look and feel of this women’s marine dress from Joe Fresh is the ultimate transitional piece for any spring prepster.

The Ultimate Spring Accessories

For every season, you’ve got to have some truly unique and classically cool accessories to compliment your ever changing wardrobe. For the ultimate statement piece for women, this boldly colored Brazilian beach beaded necklace from Urban Outfitters is a definite conversation starter that you can dress up or down. For comfy, casual spring themed footwear, these slick striped slippers from Joe Fresh carry on the fashion fan favorite nautical theme with ease and style. If you’re worried about a less than perfect head of hair this spring, this fantastic fedora from Levi’s is your leading defense in hiding embarrassing hat head. Whether you’re at the beach or enjoying some of your favorite bands on the summer festival circuit, this is one piece that will surely take you right through to fall in style.

Author: Gavin Reynolds

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