Spring Fashion Style for Every Occasion
Anne L. Fritz
Spring Fashion Style
You have your co-worker's wedding, your little brother's college graduation and that Memorial Day beach barbecue -- and that's all in one week!
When your schedule is more packed than the cathedral during the royal wedding, it can be hard to carve out the time to find the perfect outfit to wear to each. Add to that dress codes like "casual chic" and "creative black tie," and it gets downright mind-boggling.
Here, Robin Saperstein, former designer at Splendid and Joie and founder of High Heel in a Haystack, shares her advice.
Barbecue
You'd think figuring out what to wear to a casual barbecue would be a cinch, but it may be the trickiest occasion to dress for. That's because you want to appear pulled-together and chic -- without looking like you tried too hard. Forgo the inclination to wear shorts, says Saperstein, and instead opt for one of the most stylish silhouettes of the season: the maxi dress. It's casual and laid-back, plus you can still get down on the ground and play with the kids. Look for one in machine-washable cotton jersey; if you spill ketchup on it, no sweat.
Key Accessory: Long necklaces paired with a maxi dress will help elongate your figure even more.
Key Tip: Colorblocking was big on the runway this season. If you're not comfortable in head-to-toe color, a simple way to interpret the trend is to wear a neutral color and pair it with a bright scarf or cardi for a similar effect, says Saperstein.
Graduation
At a graduation, it's better to be overdressed than underdressed. That means no jeans -- not even dark denim trousers. Instead, try a pair of high-waisted wide-leg trousers, paired with a tucked-in button-down top, suggests Saperstein. "It's a very polished and beautiful look," she says. Bonus: The pants will keep you warm in a potentially chilly auditorium. For a classic and timeless take on the look, wear cream pants, a cream top and finish with a skinny, colorful belt, she suggests. Pair with strappy platform or wedge sandals.
Key Accessory: An armful of slim bangles.
Key Tip: "Make sure the hem of your pant is long enough to cover a good portion of your shoe, so your legs look miles long," says Saperstein.
Shower
Whether it's a wedding shower or a baby shower, you can't go wrong with a feminine, ladylike ensemble. "A below-the-knee silk A-line dress or skirt is always an appropriate look for these events, which are traditionally held during the day." You can even wear a favorite little black dress, as long as it's not too revealing. (Pair it with a cardi if it is.) Add interest with your jewelry, like lots of long, delicate gold necklaces.
Key Accessory: Peep-toe heels with an almond-shaped toe will complete the feminine look.
Key Tip: When selecting a color, play off your eyes. Blues are always flattering on blue-eyed ladies, green works on those with green eyes, and purple and camel tones make brown eyes pop.
Wedding
Though weddings come in all shapes and sizes, Saperstein says you should wear a similar dress to a daytime wedding as you would to an evening one, with one exception: black tie. Even if it is black tie, that can mean different things to different people, so you may want to consult with the bride if you're unsure. She may prefer ground-grazing gowns over a sequined cocktail dress. If it's a less formal affair, Saperstein likes a fun, trendy cocktail dress, like a one-shoulder dress or strapless number. "Stay in the silk and chiffon family to make sure it's appropriately dressy," she suggests.
Key Accessory: An eye-catching clutch.
Key Tip: It's no longer de rigueur to wear pantyhose to a wedding, says Saperstein, but you should make sure your legs are moisturized. "A tinted lotion will even out your skin tone."
Photo: @iStockphoto.com/KRproductions
Anne L. Fritz is the former style director for Life & Style Weekly and has been on staff at Woman's Day and Working Mother. She has contributed to Marie Claire, Glamour and Prevention, and she is the founder of The Jet Set Girls, a website about girls' getaways.
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