Spring Fashion Buzzwords: Dresses, Metallics, Dark Denim and Black and White

Spring is the time to start fresh. So toss the low-rise jeans. Throw out the short shirts. Box up any fussy, heavily beaded and sequined clothing. According to local fashion experts, these styles are O-U-T. What’s in? Spring ahead to fashion trends that are softer, feminine and easy to wear. And let your creativity and personal style lead the way – it is, after all, the year of YOU.  And to feel and look your best this spring, don’t forget to choose the most flattering styles for your body. Just because the models strutting down the catwalk are wearing mini skirts and skinny pants doesn’t mean everyone has to follow suit. Personally, I had enough of that in the 80s as a teen . . . So choose the trends that are right for you and make you feel fabulous!  That said, here are the top trends the local fashion experts have noted as THE must-have looks for the season:

• After five months of bundling up against the cold, we are ready for flirty dresses that flatter figures with pretty prints and florals, according to local fashion experts Jada Breuer, owner of St. Paul clothing boutique Karma (www.karmashops.com; 651-291-1997; 841 Grand Avenue), and Tracey Simmons, owner of New York-style boutique Sorrayah Studios (651-228-0414; 749 Grand Avenue). Dresses with feminine styling and drapey fabrics are big and easy to wear.
   
• Dark denim – especially in shades of gray – is hot for spring, notes Jenny Helt, owner of Woodbury-based boutique Elodie (www.shopelodie.com; 763-498-1765; Woodbury Lakes). Whether it’s pants, capris or skirts, denim is undergoing a resurgence, and offer versatility and comfort. Helt carries hot brands True Religion, Citizens of Humanity and Oprah’s favorite, Adriano Goldschmied. Simmons seconds the dark denim trend, noting “It all starts with a great pair of jeans!”
  
• Simmons also says this season’s trends also point to skinny pants, wide leg trousers (“for those who wouldn’t be caught dead in ‘skinny’”), three-quarter length sleeve jackets (think Jackie O.) and city shorts (“above the knee, please”). 
   
• Tunics and longer shirts paired with belts and babydoll tops layers with colorful tanks are also popular for spring, says Helt.
  
• Jersey knit fabrics are one of the big stories this season. Jersey offers comfort in wear, plus the novelty of drape and it’s extremely easy to care for (machine washable).
  
• And what’s the color forecast? Primary, bold Pop Art colors (red, gold, cobalt blue and green) are brightening the fashion landscape. But for those of us who shy away from bold color have a back up this spring. Black and white combinations are huge right now, and what’s more, they are so easy to wear, says Breuer. Look for fabulous black and white florals and prints that are flattering on everyone.
  
• Metallics are also taking center stage this spring. Both Breuer and Simmons concur that metallic platinum and silver fabrics and finishes in clothing and accessories are on the short list of must haves. In fact, a platinum double-breasted raincoat with bubble bottom recently sold out at Karma. 
   
• For the finishing touch, Simmons says handcrafted jewelry in real silver, gold and gemstones, and sexy sandals are hot, hot, hot.