"Springy" Fashions

Can't you just smell the Spring in the air? I can and I feel terribly sorry for all of you who are not blessed to be living in New England in the month of April. I wouldn't miss the unfolding beauty for anything in the world. The sunshine lifts the spirits and the cool breeze that filters through the windows of the house seems to sweep all the chill and stuffiness of winter away. It's as if the everything is being cleansed and rejuvenated so that it can get up and start anew once more. Spring must be God's favorite season, too. :)

Spring fashions are loads of fun. There is nothing like pulling out the light-weight blouses, sandals and skirts and stashing away the bulky sweaters, boots and leggings until next year.

At first, the newest Spring looks rather took me aback. I usually dress in a very classic and "girly" style (lots of pastels, eyelet blouses, ruffles, et cetera) and the BOLDNESS of Spring 08 looks just totally threw me for a loop! But it really is starting to grow on me (is that a good thing? Hmm... ;). At least, the more traditional and feminine pieces have become very appealing. The only really BIZZARE trend that I have fallen for so far is the yoked A-line blouses that seem to be bursting up everywhere. So trendy - those will definitely not stay around too long. But I think I'm going to treat myself to one so my grandkids can laugh at me 50 years from now. :) Like most Spring 08 styles, these tops come in BOLD colors, often sporting BOLD prints in BOLD shapes and featuring contrasting yokes, as seen here.

In the shoe world, feminine and retro classics continue to reign, with ballet flats and gorgeous embellished heels taking the lead (think Audrey Hepburn). Metallics also continue to be popular, especially in handbags (awfully hard to keep them from looking cheap and shiny, IMHO) and there are BOLD colors galore. (I want a pair of green heels!!! :)

As appealing as it may sometimes be, buying a whole new set of clothes every season is not the way to go. I find the greatest pleasure in taking out "old friends" from years past and shaking loose some memories. Of course, some of them have served their time and must needs be passed on to a younger sister or friend. Although they sometimes need to be replaced with new items, some of those classics shouldn't be thrown until they actually fall apart. I have a navy-blue, square-necked t-shirt from Chadwicks that is in it's 4th year. Yeah, it's a bit worn down, but the comfort and instant style it brings each time I slip it on has kept it among my favorites.

So, even though total closet-makeovers are not recommended, adding a few new pieces and accessories that catch your eye is a great way to refresh your wardrobe and put a "spring" in your step. ;)

If you've already got most of the basics nailed (black tee, white button-up, blue denim skirt, tan capris) in your wardrobe, you will find it amazingly to easy to mix and match the new with the old to get dozens of "new" looks. Try not to get stuck in the rut of pairing the same skirt and blouse together over and over - mix them up! Also, the days of matching everything with exquisite care are behind us - don't be afraid to wear brown shoes with a black skirt or a blue top with a pair of green pants. It's amazing how well you can pull it off if you are confident and let yourself have some fun!

Soooo...have a little bit of fun with your clothing as you "spring into Spring". Slip off your sandals, breathe in the breeze and stand in the sun. God made this beauty to be enjoyed - let's live it to the fullest! :)

P.S. If, like me, you happen to welcome Spring with a whopper cold, make sure your bestest friend brings you flowers. Mine did. Love you, Josh! :)