We are finally seeing signs of spring! From warmer weather to longer days, shrubs budding and the emerging of perennials from beneath the soil, spring is making an appearance. With this new emergence we begin to lighten our wardrobes into something less bulky with brighter colors. Check out what is considered fashion forward for spring 2016. But for all of you procrastinators, a word about Prom.

If you haven’t picked up your dress yet for Prom, no fear www.seventeen.com has a cohesive section dedicated to Prom dresses of all shapes and sizes, numerous colors and priced under $100 for the last minute shopper. The section is aptly titled “20 Gorgeous Prom Dresses Under $100”. Seventeen promises, “You don’t have to spend a ton to look like​ a rockstar on prom night”. There is an interesting mix of styles and colors for those procrastinators who have yet to decide if they will be attending this event. Some of these selections are web order only and some are found at local stores. After you have reviewed this section there is another slideshow to view of “10 Amazing Prom Dress Trends You’re Going To Be Obsessed With”. Remember Prom is less than three weeks away!

Now on to what is fashion forward for spring 2016. It’s time to pack away our darker colored wools, heavy cottons and fleece, opting for lighter linens and cottons in brighter hues. Pantone has released their fashion color report with a hue mixture of earthy and bright colors. Check out these carefully inspired hues to find what color best suits you for spring 2016!

The Pantone colors were chosen from a psychological side of comfort and with the idea of easing the daily grind. As mentioned numerous times on my Style Section, Pantone is the color bible for upcoming seasons which sets the tone for clothing designs worn by the public. This spring the colors were chosen from a therapeutic standpoint. All colors apply to both genders and will be found gracing the wardrobes of the most fashion conscious. This season’s number one color is Rose Quartz. “Other soothing shades can be found in the remaining top-five hues — Peach Echo, Serenity, Snorkel Blue and Buttercup. The second half of the top 10 — aqua Limpet Shell, Lilac Gray, warm red Fiesta, Iced Coffee and Green Flash — hint at other kinds of reprieves and allow for some unexpected color combinations” according to Pantone. Matisse and Picasso, two leading artists who influenced the twentieth century, have inspired this season’s designers, pulling color schemes from the artists’ works.

According to www.Fashionista.com, after designers unveiled their looks in New York, London, Milan, and Paris the runway trend ranged “from off-the-shoulder tops to shoulder cutouts to asymmetrical necklines” for this spring. The 90’s, ruffles and crumpled fabric were also show stoppers to name a few. According to www.HarpersBazaar.com the jean jacket is once again a staple for the spring months ahead. From Marc Jacobs to Burberry, there are a plethora of fashion forward examples including dark, light or white denim, long or short, button, zip or tie. Other delightful spring trends include, floral and striped dresses with shorter hems or off the shoulder blouses topped with a bomber jacket. Accessorize with slip on loafers, the flat sandal, and a patchwork or top handle bag; no long straps, ladies!

We will continue with spring trends next month in the Style Section. Remember to check back for part two of what is fashion forward for spring 2016. See you then!

Quote of the day:
“Playing dress up begins at age five and never truly ends.”
~Kate Spade, Designer

 Affordable accessory alert:
American Eagle, https://www.ae.com has some great denim as well as other awesome deals including BOGO (buy one get one) shorts, shoes, leggings, jewelry and sunglasses! Check it out!