When spring flowers come out to play, printed pants are here to stay. At the University of Notre Dame, I find that most students tend to shy away from all things printed or bright during the winter months. However, when spring finally rears its head, it is time to pull out all the stops and wear your most colorful items. Even on a rainy day, colors and print can brighten the mood and get you at least mentally ready for finals and the approaching warmer months.
I spotted this Fashionista studying on campus. Despite the gray day, she lightened the mood with her navy and white polka-dot printed pants. She carried the dot motif through with her white sweater with a spot-embedded pattern. Her white crochet lace shoes featuring brown bows and leather details coordinate well with the white woven top. This Fashionista accessorized with a dainty silver cross bracelet and a pale pink floral necklace. She layered a denim jacket to combat the occasional cool, spring breeze.
A less formal alternative to the classic stripe, polka-dots add an air of whimsy and youthfulness without looking juvenile. Switch up the look by going for dots of different sizes. Instead of pairing your polka dots with the usual retro accessories, take a cue from this Fashionista and pair it with denim and knit instead. By keeping the colors neutral, she exhibits a more grown-up take on the polka-dot look.
How To: Select one polka dot item to become the focal point of your outfit. A shirt with large polka dots or pants with small ones work well. Pair them with other solid colors. Add depth by mixing and matching textures, like this Fashionista! Feminine details like shoes with bows complete the look.
