FASHION: Get in the swing of spring

AS I write this on an April evening the wind is howling outside, and it really would get you down. It feels like we’ve had winter weather since last year, except for a few pleasant days over Easter. The days are grey, and the colours are drab. The only cheerful thing to behold is the field opposite with the little lambs.
Still, it is officially spring, and the prospect of injecting a bit of colours to our lives is surely a boost. Key fashion trends this season are both wearable and practical, which is all good. Let’s look at some of the most popular trends – and hope the summer is kind enough to allow us to wear some of them!

Waists and legs
THE high waist is back – great news for us ladies who can’t be doing with low-rise trousers. All kinds of pants are in fashion, from capris to track pants. The bottoms are tapered, though I’m still seeing quite a lot of wide legged trousers. I’ve seen some fabulous wide leg jeans also, and you can dress them up easily with short fitted jackets, or indeed the bomber. Cargo trousers are still popular, though the finish this season is more polished, with slimmer trouser legs.

Dresses
DRESSES will be playing a major role this summer, with florals still dominating. A white dress is an essential piece for the lady who wants to be current. Shirt dresses are already out in abundance, and this tends to be a style that suits most, as it can be worn with or without a belt, depending on where you carry a bit of weight. If it’s around your stomach, definitely wear without!
The colours are mainly pastels, pink, blue and light green. A few of last year’s colours are still around, like orange and vibrant red, which add a wonderful pop of colour to those brave enough to wear them.

Summer coats
TRENCH coats are a nearly must in Ireland, for every season. Since created by Burberry in 1912, the trench has never gone away. Naturally, the summer styles are lighter. You will find them in every boutique and high-street store. Check out if the one you’re looking at is shower proof – there’s nothing worse than buying a coat you think will protect you when it rains, only to discover you get soaked through in it.

Bling
JEWELLERY will be maximalist this season. You can wear gold and silver together, piling on the strands for a really dramatic look, and pair with chunky earrings. Pearls with gold or silver will also be a thing. All you need to do is mix and match with gay abandon.
And would you believe, watches are back? I never stopped wearing one, but younger people don’t seem to favour them at all. The smart phone does everything it seems.

Bags
THE big bag is back. Slouchy and unstructured, possibly with lots of buckles and embellishments, will be key trends.
I’m never too sure about bags; small ones don’t hold enough, usually only phone and purse, yet everything gets lost in the huge ones. I’ve nearly lost the plot on numerous occasion trying to root through my bag to find phone, keys etc. On the other hand, I love a big comfy bag that serves me well. I probably just need to organise it better. No doubt you have your own favourite.

Fancy footwear
SHOES will be platform, sparkly and flowery. Kitten heels are still de rigueur, though. They’re such a great option to wear rather than higher heels. Mind you, some of the current styles are a real work of art – all 3D designs and pretty ornate. Fabulous to look at, but not great in the comfort stakes though, I’d wager.

Fab fringing
FRINGING is having its moment in the sun, and will make its mark on dresses, cardigans, jackets and skirts. Designers are loving this particular trend. It’s a bit of a marmite look though; some love it, some loathe it.

Maggie Gibbons is an image/style consultant based in Louisburgh. She can be contacted at living@mayonews.ie.