I have always been hesitant to follow trends. I feel that consumers, sometimes without knowing, buy trendy clothes that they see everywhere simply to fit in, regardless of what style their body and personality need. This past season or two, I have been ecstatic to see huge trends that line up with my personal style because it has encouraged me to make trendier style choices without compromising my own look—or my bank account.
alice + olivia’s spring 2015 ready-to-wear collection, a vibrant, youthful show inspired by the decadent art of Versailles, is a great example of wearable trends that I love. Designer Stacey Bendet used bright pops of color, mismatched prints and the high-waisted two piece silhouette that dominated fashion lately. She referenced the ’70s without going hippie. Instead, she mixed in ’50s shapes with modern colors.
I am a sucker for anything colorful with a feminine print. I made this floral midi skirt myself after falling in love with the fabric. My crop top, featuring the high racer front neckline, was a great find at Charlotte Russe for 20 dollars. It has subtle, structured stripes, which mix well with the bold florals without overpowering them. To finish the look, I put on some cheetah print heels that I thrifted for 12 dollars. There was a time when I wouldn’t have gone anywhere near cheetah print, but I’ve come to appreciate the trend and treat these shoes as a neutral piece.
It was fun to take a cue from alice + olivia and mix prints, colors and bold shapes. Overall, my outfit cost under 50 dollars. Not bad for packing in several big trends! I encourage everyone to try their hand at popular trends that make them feel confident and like themselves. Staying true to personal style is always the best way to look good.
Get My Look: 1. Crop top. 2. Floral midi skirt. 3. Cheetah print heels.
