Summer Dressing–Sunny, Breezy & HOTT!

editor — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:43:04 +0000

The Flirty Frock is Your Spring Wardrobe MVP

Trade your black tights for bare legs. Heavy tweeds for airy chiffons. Covered arms for tanned, tank-strapped shoulders. Spring has finally sprung and there’s no shortage of fun, flirty dresses to get you in a sunny state of mind.

For the first time in a long time, we’re talking flattering looks for absolutely every figure. From slim sheaths and sack tunics to trapeze minis and babydoll maxis, the diverse silhouettes of Spring 08 seem to have every girl’s back.

So no more worries about mixing and matching or pulling off uncomplimentary shapes like high-waist trousers and skinny-leg jeans. With the right dress, you’ve got an altogether outfit in seconds. The only accessories required? A great pair of sandals (go for the gladiators!) and some newly bronzed cheeks.

What could be more effortless? Whether you’re an all-out girly girl or streamlined sophisticate, the dress is bound to be the season’s most valuable asset for work or play everyday. Here are five key looks to add to your spring lineup:

1. The Little Yellow Dress

Fiji Floral Zoey Dress in Bright Yellow, $118 @ J. Crew

From vivid daffodil to lighter shades of lemon, yellow is the bright new standout of the season. Designers Anna Sui, Diane Von Furstenberg, Nanette Lepore and Marc Jacobs all showcased little yellow dresses on the runways of New York Fashion Week Spring 2008 – so go for it. What other color could provide such an instant mood lift?

To make the most of a perfectly sunny disposition, look for yellow dresses in knee-high lengths and shiny, flowy or flowery fabrics. When it comes to accessories, matching can be tricky. Keep it simple with light gold-toned sandals and jewelry and get glowing.

2. The Shirtdress

ABS by Allen Schwartz Shirtdress in Khaki, $260 @ Lord & Taylor

Has the career girl found a new work-to-weekend uniform? This season’s shirtdress is chic, classic, and a versatile switch-hitter. Wear it belted and buttoned-up by day or carry it off with bold bangles and a clutch by night. Either way, you’re looking totally put together without trying a tad bit too hard.

For those who appreciate understated looks, the safari shirtdress is a natural way to go. Look for discreet military details, practical pockets, and easy-wearing neutral colors like ecru, brown, olive and navy. Just think of it as a fresh, feminine take on the menswear dress shirt. What better way to entice a tomboy to trade in her trousers?

3. The Bold Print Dress

Everything’s coming up roses and geometric and tie-dye too. This season you can take your pick of all prints charming – almost every design, pattern and play on color is fair game. We’re talking blooming botanicals, artsy brushstrokes, global graffiti, and light to dark shades of free-flowing ombre.

This is definitely a trend that says go big and go bold. If you’re a girl who usually plays it safe with solids, ease into the transition with monochromatic prints of black and white. For a more serious burst of spring energy, aim for eye-catching combinations featuring bright blue, violet, or citrus especially lemon, lime and orange. How refreshing.

Silk Floral-Print Halter Dress in Burgundy, $150 @ Banana Republic

4. The Ruffled Dress

JS Collection Short Tiered Dress in White.Black, $198 @ Lord & Taylor

Can you say va-va-voluminous? Spring is all about ruffles, frills, swishing skirts and romance. You’ll find everything from flamenco-inspired chiffon and gauze to super-trendy bubble hems in silk satin and taffeta. There’s never been a better reason to tuck a flower in your hair.

Play up the fun and work this trend into your day game too. Opt for dresses with a single frill around the neckline or hem, or shutter pleats down the front. A crisp shift dress with straight horizontal tiers or laser-cut edges is a great way to wear lots of layers with sophisticated structure.

5. The One-Shoulder Dress

It’s the look made famous by the Grecian goddess, and more recently the likes of Katherine Heigl, Drew Barrymore, Jessica Biel and Anne Hathaway. Who could forget that red rosette-detailed Marchesa Anne wore to the Oscars? Baring a single shoulder is simple, sexy and all the while surprising.

Besides, warm weather wardrobes are always stacked with halters, tanks and spaghetti straps. Let spring open your eyes to a whole new perspective. With an asymmetrical neckline, you can go short or long, form-fitting or billowy. And you need nothing more than face-framing earrings or a simple bracelet to score a winning look.

Silk Asymmetrical Dress in Purple Star, $175 @ Banana Republic

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Summer Dressing–Sunny, Breezy & HOTT!

The Flirty Frock is Your Spring Wardrobe MVP