Saturday 28 March 2015

Spring 2015: On the Fringe

After a winter filled with debilitating blizzards, slick roads and slushy aftermath, there is light at the end of the tunnel. With spring just around the corner, scheming an outfit that consists of more than an oversized sweater, pair of jeans and clunky snow boots won't be easy. For instant outfit inspiration, take a look at the Trendologist's picks for top spring 2015 trends.

Over the past few decades, fringe has garnered a nasty reputation.  With devotees such as the Brady Bunch (satirical family included), Cher and Dolly Parton, the tasseled frippery veers more kitschy than sleek. This spring; however, designers across the board revamped the embellishment to win over the hearts of even the most skeptical style savants. At Céline, Phoebe Philo made fringe minimalist-approved by subtly adding the loud touch to simple knit tank dresses. The result? A low risk, low effort way to amp your wardrobe game. At the opposite end of the spectrum lies the array of multicolored, leather fringe skirts by Sonia Rykiel. Paired with slouchy, borrowed from the boys sweaters, this alternative offers a cool girl vibe. Looking to integrate the theatrics of this fad with the runway's bohemian revival, Isabel Marant's  fringed dress with a rope-bound waist perfectly blends the two. While Marant tapped into this trend's softer side, boy-wonder design duo Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez opted for a sharp, geometric take at Proenza Schouler. Two toned strings, which hung from an intricately woven skirt, were matched with cut-out sweatshirts. But for those who are searching for an unapologetically girly way to wear this phenomenon, take a page from Giambattista Valli's lookbook and invest in a minidress that packs on the movement. From modern, to earthy, to unashamed feminine, there is no excuse not to give this trend a try.

Céline Look 4
Sonia Rykiel Look 19
Isabel Marant Look 31
Proenza Schouler Look 38
Giambattista Valli Look 14



When it comes to fringe, there's a fine line between being at the vanguard of spring fashion and channeling Thoroughly Modern Millie. Release your ensemble of any flapper undertones by opting for tassels in neutrals, or deep gem tones if you're looking to push the envelope. Whether you're  searching for a skirt or jacket, step away from the polyester to prevent your ensemble from appearing costumey and elect a more luxurious textile such as leather or suede.  As always, if you're not ready to take the style plunge, accessories continue to be an excellent launch point. A simple fringed sandal rejiggers an otherwise tame outfit while a tasseled earring will be utterly sophisticated with an evening gown.

Will you be exploring fringe benefits this spring? Sound off below.

Runway photos courtesy of Style.com
xx