Colorful Spring Outfits to Energize Your Wardrobe
When I was young I loved the bright dresses, lace socks and white patent leather Mary Janes that I wore to church on Easter Sunday. The annual shopping trip with Mom to choose an Easter dress was a ritual as important as placing cookies and milk out for Santa each Christmas Eve. I’ve always been a tomboy, preferring pants to dresses, but I loved my Easter dress and never felt more girly than when I proudly walked into Church in all my finery. So it’s no surprise that even now that I’m all grown up, I still long for a beautiful spring dress to launch the new season.
Buying a new dress now isn’t as easy as it was in fifth grade. I no longer fit perfectly into a specific size and the typical spring dresses at the department stores are uninspiring. Often, when I find the perfect dress, it isn’t even available in my size. So! What’s a girl to do?
First, don’t worry if you haven’t found a new spring outfit you love. All too often there is a great option hiding in your closet and it just takes a little creative thinking to pull it together. Split up the matched suit hanging in your closet and create new outfits. Wear the jacket over a sleeveless dress or pair the pants with a tank top and a bolero style jacket.
If you own a solid color dress, consider wearing it with a colorful cardigan and a belt or drape a pashmina over your shoulders and pin it in place with a cluster of 3 broaches. For accessories, layer several bangles on one arm, wear a pair of dangling earrings to create movement and sparkle near your face and throw on some metallic sandals to complete the outfit. For less than $40 you can purchase a brightly colored belt, a few bangles and a pair of earrings at places like Target or Steinmart. When shopping for a new outfit, remember that fit is the most important thing to consider. A stylish dress that fits poorly will create an unattractive look and detract from your beauty.
Separates are always more versatile, allowing you to create a multitude of outfits from a few pieces. Mixing bold colors is a big trend this season so consider pairing an orange skirt with a bright blue blouse, strappy sandals, dangling blue jewel earrings and a fun bangle. White slacks with a bold print blouse, cork platform heels and a straw handbag is a great look too.
Whatever you decide to wear, it should be comfortable. Don’t wear it if it’s too tight, too short, your bra straps keep peeking out or you can’t walk around safely in your very high heels! You’ll be distracted and may find it difficult to relax and enjoy the moment. How we adorn ourselves is important but the experience is what really counts, so dress accordingly.
