Cruise Into Spring With Bermuda Shorts

Bid farewell to short shorts for Spring—hem lines have dropped to the knee with Bermuda shorts!

Though it's hard to imagine it will ever get warmer, Spring is quickly approaching and Bermuda shorts are the perfect warm weather essential.  These surfer inspired shorts have a tailored, yet slouchy fit that makes them just as versatile as a pencil skirt. They’re also ultra chic and flattering- seriously, what’s not to love?

Whether you go floral or denim or choose a happy, bright color, this is your go-to garment when you want to let your legs do all the talking.  They had their debut a few years ago, but in 2013 Bermuda shorts are making a sophisticated comeback with a refreshing makeover that's inherently more glamorous. 

These slouchy, cool-girl shorts are perfect for any girl who has ever cringed at the thought of wearing cheek-baring cutoffs.   Have no fears about the few extra pounds you put on our thighs this winter.  We can all breathe a collective sigh of relief since these knee length shorts will prevent the extra poundage from being exposed.

  

From casual to dressy, Bermuda shorts will make you stand out this season.  There is a huge assortment of styles available so whether you fancy plain or printed clothing, you won't be left out of wearing this trend.  Here are some of the reasons why I love these shorts:

• They can be either dressy or casual and are appropriate for any occasion-  the beach, family BBQs, shopping or running errands, a night out, and even work. To achieve a casual look partner them with a simple white tank top and sandals.  Tailored Bermuda shorts worn with a white blouse, black blazer, and bold pump instantly create a classic look that's office appropriate.
• They're comfortable and provide just the right amount of coverage, making them a great way to cool off without showing off too much skin. These are not shorts that you need to stuff your legs into. You can stand up AND sit down in these shorts. In fact, you will be able to stand up and sit down over and over again without getting hurt or worrying that you will bust a seam.
• Given the variety of styles available, we now have a reason to expand upon our shoe collections to wear with these shorts.  From flip-flops and ballerina flats to strappy stilettos, the shoe department is our oyster! 

Bermuda shorts are a fabulous staple piece for Spring to spruce up your outfit in whatever pattern or fabric you choose!  While the runways were flooded with couture versions of these shorts this Spring, more basic Bermuda shorts can be found at Gap, Banana Republic, and Old Navy. Whether friend or foe, they’re a fashionable, comfortable, and classy piece to incorporate into your wardrobe for the upcoming season.



Michael Kors




Nanette Lepore




Nicole Miller




Vera Wang




Rachel Roy



Chloe



Rachel Zoe




Vera Wang



Spring Jacket Trends



Forever 21
$29


Now that warmer weather is on the horizon, you're probably looking for an every day Spring topper that's a little more exciting than a basic jean jacket and something that's got a longer lifespan than a studded, peplum coat.  I admit it — it's hard to find that balance between trendy and timeless. And when you're so excited about finally leaving your winter coat at home and greeting Spring head on with new statement pieces, it's easy to get overwhelmed.  Luckily, this season's runways presented quite a few classically cut coverings with new and innovative details to satisfy everyone's taste.  Below I have created your guide to Spring's 6 biggest jacket trends.  Check them out and leave a comment to let me know what you think.

1.  Motorcycle Jacket- if you don’t already own a boxy, structured Moto inspired jacket, I suggest you go out and get one.  These jackets add a sophisticated edge to feminine ensembles for Spring. Pick one up in leather or denim to toughen up a girly dress.

2. Colorful Anorak- urbanize this outdoorsy style with frayed denim and minimalist accessories.

3. Striped Blazer- stripes make this tailored style laid back enough to pair perfectly with off duty shorts and slouchy tops, yet dressy enough for pair with a wrap dress for the office.

4. Printed Denim Jacket- keep everything else soft and neutral, and let this graphic style be your statement piece.

5. Collarless Blazer- add a collar with a boyish button down and complete your look with a pair of jeans to loosen up the ultra-lady like cut of this jacket. For a more feminine look wear this blazer with a dress.  A collarless jacket can turn even the most daring cocktail dress into a fit-for-the-office masterpiece.

6. Baseball Jacket- Forget the runways- the best style comes straight from the streets and this season's take on the varsity jacket is no exception.   This jacket creates a badass mix of men’s and women’s apparel with a blend of girly and tomboy that is nonchalantly cool.  Throw it on over your flirtiest skirts and tops for an edgy, but polished look. 

H&M
$49.95

Theory
$895






 

Trina Turk, $285
Bloomingdales

DKNY, $188.80
Bloomingdales





Mango

$100

Michael Kors
$160






Jones NY

$79

  

Jones NY

$79



  



Jones NY

$199

Jones NY
$169




 

 

La Marque

$346.50 

 

Alice and Olivia

$1082



Boy Crazy

When it comes to jeans, we’ve been inundated with skinny styles for several seasons, and while they may be great looking on a size 2, not everybody can pull off the stick-thin look. But finally, a jeans trend has come along that’s comfy, flattering, and totally wearable on anybody. The boyfriend jean and its slouchy fit make it a happy alternative to those restrictive skinnies.

This season we can all wear comfy, cozy jeans without looking like a sloppy mess with the new less baggy boyfriend jeans. The new boyfriend jean is much better than its predecessor. It's slimmer and better looking—the way a new beau should be!

For the desired sexy vibe, boyfriend jeans should be loose, but fitted across the hips and narrow and tapered in the leg. Boyfriends look fabulous with a short, fitted jacket and super-sexy heels or wedges. The more ornate your shoe, the better. I love a boyfriend jean with a high-heeled peep-toe bootie or a wedge. If you choose comfort over looks, pair your pants with ballet flats, gladiator sandals, or even flip flops. Whether you wear pumps or flats the point is to match with the overall image.

Because these pants look slouchy you have to balance their overall appearance if you want to be stylish. Be creative and roll up the bottom for a young and boho look. These rolled up bottoms will help you show off your sexy ankles and stylish footwear.  For a more polished look, the cuffs should reach right above the ankles. To make your look more casual roll the cuffs two or three times.

Pair boyfriend jeans with fitted tops and tees for a more feminine look. Tight tops and long-sleeved tees make your look modern and up-to-date. If a more masculine style is what you're looking for, wear a button-down shirt and flats. You can also layer your tops.  For example, wear a simple tank top with a vest. The combo will be simple, yet very chic.

Always keep your look feminine by emphasizing your waist with a belt. Boyfriend jeans are loose on the hips.  That's why it's almost essential to accessorize them with a belt. The advantage of these jeans is that they fit all body types, from athletic to curvaceous figures. The key is to not lose your femininity by enhancing your look with stylish accessories.

When it comes to borrowing from the boys, I've already claimed tailored tuxedo pants and now I'm swiping the boyfriend jean style too. Who would have guessed that we would be swapping our skinny jeans for a pair of loose and baggy pants?  No one- I'm sure. However, wearing your boyfriend's pants is more 'IN' than ever. Rock your boyfriend's style with sheer femininity in these jeans, without actually looking like you raided his closet.

The Great Buy


Old Navy
$35



The Perfect Starter Jean

If you're not comfortable embracing this trend head on, try an update of the classic boyfriend jean with a skinny jean characterized by a subtle slouch that gives the laid back look of the boyfriend trend with the fit of a more feminine style.



True Religion
$298

 The Perfectly Worn- Comfy and Distressed Looks



 

Asos
$60







7 For All Mankind
$265





Paige
$229

Go Daper in Tuxedo Pants

Move over colored jeans and printed denim. There is a new obsession that has taken over the fashion world: tuxedo pants. Tinseltown trendsetters have been spotted donning the dapper bottoms with everything from blazers and pumps to slick leather jackets and combat boots.

This season skinny jeans and slim pants are getting the menswear treatment with tuxedo inspired stripes.  Not only do tuxedo stripes offer a fresh update on the now staple skinny silhouette, but they also provide a bit of unexpected camouflage to help make legs appear longer and leaner.

These chic pants come in a myriad of styles such as an ankle-hugging cigarette pant, a flared bell bottom, and wide leg.  They also come in various textures and fabrics, including leather and silk stripes against cotton, silk, linen, denim, and velvet backdrops. 

This versatile trend features a refined street-chic, yet reformed look that can be worn nearly anywhere, anytime.  These pants are easy to wear dressed up or down.  Try them with a blazer and a tee for an edgy and casual mix or wear tuxedo pants with satin details for a more formal look.  Throw these pants on with a tuxedo jacket and pair of black stilettos and accessorize with simple diamond jewelry for a look that's superbly polished and fashionable.  However you choose to wear them, these pants will look even sexier than a dress because of their tailored fit.

I love the romantic and androgynous look of the tuxedo pant especially in high contrast black and white for a classic tux look. This Spring, however, designers have incorporated the season's hottest prints and colors into the look, making it bolder and more statement-making then ever.

Get well suited these season with menswear inspired looks.

Fashionista Army

Guess

Guess














     

Guess

Express

      The military look is in full force this Spring.  This must wear military trend supplies sexy camo looks that are anything, but uniform.  Camouflage is no longer limited to men's fashions.  All of the season's styles are simple and comfy, like real military clothing, but the fabrics are softer and the designs are more adapted to women’s shapes. The endless variations of the trend range from the feminine to the more classy and textbook-style military designs.  The signature structure of these pieces all scream for a sophisticated style with attitude.  To bring out your feminine silhouette, pair the right shades and kind of tailoring for your shape to achieve the most flattering look.      

     The military inspired trend is extremely versatile and can be worn in various ways from full on army to a touch of military with your handbag or jacket.  These army items go with just about anything you currently have in your wardrobe.  You can't go wrong by mixing your own military equipment with basics like leather or denim.  To prevent your ensemble from looking too masculine, simply style your look with sexy heels, a natural leather handbag, and gold or silver accessories.  However, refrain from wearing the trend from top to bottom to avoid looking like you belong in the actual army.

Shopbop

Asos

     There's no need to limit yourself to the classy green tones when you have the opportunity to find these trademark designs in the endless shades of the rainbow.  While olive green and khaki are the traditional camo shades, try embracing a more colorful scheme for a one of a kind military fashion.

Guess

       Military fashion is a juxtaposition of the harsh and manly, with the soft and girly. Clash the femininity of your cocktail or jersey dress or skin-tight pants with the cool and boyish chic army-style inspired jackets and shirts. Use the stylish military accessories to complement your look and spot the pieces that flatter your body shape from the cool shoes, bags, belts and even headwear. Pair your masculine military shirts with stylish studded shorts, a cargo style skirt, or pair of skinnies to preserve your womanish allure.  Cropped or full length cargo pants can also be paired with a simple and classy white t-shirt and a stylish blazer for a look that's femme fatale.
       Even if you love fashion, not war, you should be garbing yourself in this gear in 2013!

Michael Kors



Mulberry "Del Rey"
Snakeskin Handbag



Miss Fancy Pants

      

        Want to know how to get a leg up on looking super fashionable and trendy for Spring?  Try a printed pant!  Although not new, this trend is showing no signs of fading out soon so you better get your print on!  Geometric, flower, jacquard, and animal prints- Oh My!  These bold, statement pants can create both casual and dressy looks with added punch that will have everyone's head turning.
        This season there are printed pants in all different shapes, colors, and sizes. Obviously some are more daring than others, but there are so many options, both subtle and bold, that I am certain you will be able to find one that will have you saying "Printed Pants Please!"
       The styles of printed pants available this season range from tight leggings to large flowy “pajama” pants. Whether in a structured, flared, or skinny cut, printed pants are an interesting and fun way to transform your look into one that's more youthful.  While more fitted leggings, jeans, and trousers will do a good job of showing off your lower assets, more flowy printed pants can help those who are not perfectly pleased with their bottom half.  Additionally, these larger flowy pants can create the illusion of height for the vertically challenged when paired with the right heel.  Just remember balance is key: If you’re wearing a tight pant then try a looser top. The same holds true the other way around: flowier bottoms are best paired with tighter, more structured tops- like peplum.
      There are so many prints to choose from this season that it is hard to know where to start. Whatever pattern you choose rest assured that your look will be anything, but boring.  Although some eye-catching prints may look beautiful on the runways, they may not be the best print for you. The key is to find a print that flatters your figure.  I know a lot of women who are curvier on the bottom worry that they can't wear patterns.  But, if you keep the color palette dark and somewhat monochromatic you will be shocked at just how flattering they can be!
      Among my favorite patterns are florals and animal prints. Cheetah, leopard, and tiger are great picks that adapt to almost any fashion habitat.  They are effortless prints that should be worn with the same kind of ease.  These feline touches make any outfit sexy, yet refined.  And since they are statement pieces the outfit possilbities are endless, especially when paired with neutrals.
      You can't really think of Spring without thinking of bold florals- no shrinking violets here!  Bold hued floral patterns bring attitude to your look, while providing a pleasant contrast to the defined lines of your skinny trousers.
      If you want to create the illusion that you are longer and leaner (and I don’t know a single woman who doesn’t), try choosing a print that runs vertical. If you have a little junk in that trunk then horizontal, tightly spaced prints, with little background showing, are a flattering option. Less background–especially with oversized, tightly spaced prints–is flattering because it works to hide some of those problem areas. While women with curves should go with flared or wider pant cuts, more svelte women should go for a skinny cut or structured shapes.  If you're on the shorter side, opt for a smaller, closely spaced print, rather than a larger closely spaced print.
     For Spring '13 we have seen pants in literally every single shade and the range of color in printed pants is no different.  Obviously, the brighter and more colorful the print, the more attention grabbing the pant will be.  Limiting color is a great way to add print in a more subtle way.  Both monochrome prints and black and white prints can achieve a more subtle printed pant look, while adding some punch to your trendy outfit. 
      When wearing these pants, you can either wear a bright top, a neutral top, or even a top with a different print.  Go solid on top if the print is busy, or mix patterns for a trendier vibe- make it work by keeping hues in the same color family. If you want to wear a bright colored top with these pants, make sure the color is in the print itself so it looks organized.  If you are cautious about color or believe the print is too loud, wear a neutral top (black, white, brown, gray, cream, or navy blue) to calm down the overall look. For example, dress up wildly printed pants with a feminine, solid white peplum top or toughen up your look with a grey off the shoulder sweatshirt and pair of edgy, black studded heels.   
       If you're thinking that there's no way these pants would look good on you, you're wrong! If you wear them properly and heed my advice, you will hit a whole new level of fashion-forward. No matter how you wear them, printed pants are unique and fun for Spring. What makes printed pants so great is that the cut can make your frame look thinner, while the edgy print makes you seem confident.  The most important thing to remember about printed pants is to make sure the cut and print are flattering- you don't want the print to be too dainty for you, nor overpowering.


Pucci



Tibi

Monique Lhuillier



Michael Kors




Tory Burch