Spring 2014 Trend: Hawaiian Florals

As anyone from the east coast will tell you, this has been one harsh winter. But rest assured, style savants, a warmer season is on its way. Need some proof? Spring's array of Hawaiian florals. This refreshing take on this motif is no surprise: resort collections from Jason Wu, Prada, and Fausto Puglisi hinted that we would be saying aloha soon. A few months later, and we were introduced to a multitude of different island flowers. While Marc Jacobs sent gothic prints down the runway and Marni's Consuelo Castiglioni welcomed an androgynous alternative, contemporary brands such as MSGM and Fausto Puglisi utilized a bright color palette. With crisp leather accessories and tailored silhouettes, Michael Kors taught his disciples that this print isn't just for island girls. So sorry beach dwellers, tastemakers are taking this pattern for a spin.

MSGM Look 25

Marc Jacobs Look 14

Michael Kors Look 38

Fausto Puglisi Look 26

Marni Look 5 

Just because this trend screams beachy chic doesn't mean you have to pair this print with puka shells, khakis, and an umbrella-clad frozen beverage. Instead, make a splash by sporting island florals from head to toe. To some, this ensemble may be a little "in your face"; however,  if you're going to make a statement, why not go all out? For those tamer trendsetters, compliment your printed top with equally vibrant separates, preferably in a hue that's featured in your beach blanket- ready piece. Update this look with some beaded accessories or unleash your inner island child with some very au courant birkenstocks. As for your beauty ritual? Rock a dewy complexion and slicked back locks.

Zara floral print dress / J Crew print top / River Island black and white top, $41 / Emma Cook green romper, $425 / Topshop patterned skirt / Superga floral sneaker / French Connection Hawaiian Cotton Shorts / Grey and Peach Floral Bomber Jacket, $58

Will you rock this trend any time soon? Sound off below! 

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Fall 2013: Trendy Tartan

Let's play a quick round of word association, shall we? When you think of the word "plaid," there's a good chance "lumberjack," "school girl," or "blasé hipster" comes to mind. This fall, designers are gifting us with a new word to associate with plaid: chic. Um, what? The notoriously macho pattern is revitalized with sleek, feminine, and ultra-sexy silhouettes as well as unexpected fabrics (and by unexpected fabrics, I obviously mean no flannel). It seems as if the sartorial table has turned, as tartan is no longer something you throw on when you're craving a lazy day ensemble. Instead, plaid is for tastemakers who want to make a statement.

Stella McCartney

                                                          Céline

Fausto Puglisi

Moschino

Saint Laurent

Whether you're ready to rock head-to-toe tartan or prefer starting of small with a punch of plaid, this trend has something for every style savant. Though a red/black combo is the most universal color palette for plaid, put your brave face on and  spice up your wardrobe with tartan in a creamy grey or shocking yellow. If you're easing into this trend, couple some printed shoes or a plaid bag with a monochromatic ensemble in a neutral hue-- black, white, grey, or cream are fabulous options. Though tops and skirts in this zesty pattern are on trend, life's too short not to embrace this trend to the fullest. If my inspirational words failed to persuade you, sporting a completely plaid ensemble prevents an embarrassing "naughty schoolgirl" moment. Perhaps I'm a little too obsessed with Céline's fall collection, but my favorite way to sport this trend is with this jaw-dropping plaid jacket. Two amazing trends in one outfit? So major. 

Moschino dress / Harvey Faircloth dress / Elizabeth and James metallic silver shirt / Roksanda Ilincic tweed coat / Alaïa skirt / Lightweight cotton pants / Alice + Olivia alice olivia skirt / Cole Haan pumps / Joie shoes / Marc by Marc Jacobs plaid purse / Comme des Garçons plaid handbag

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