Shorts, shorts, shorts
There is a controversial trend that has slipped from the catwalk onto the high street and I say controversial because I don’t like it – harsh but honest, I know. However, slowly I’m being won over by the painted pastel versions and super tailored styles, which basically target my fashion weaknesses. I am referring to board shorts. Some people call them culottes, but ELLE is my bible, so hence forth they are, as ELLE says, board shorts. Basically they are tailored trousers, but cut off either just above or just below the knee. In terms of this article they are a great transitional piece going from spring into summer, especially if some of you have landed work experience or are going off to professional graduate jobs; they make the perfect piece for a balmy office with a bit of calf ventilation. However, the styling is crucial to making them look fashionable, otherwise you might end up looking like a mature Brownie guide. For inspiration, look to Jason Wu’s collection, which features amazing pastel two piece suits using board shorts. He has teamed them with slightly sheer tees, strappy barely-there sandals and beautiful long-line blazers; a bit like if a Californian came to work in London for a day.
The Boxy Crop
Boxy jackets. Yes.
It’s lightweight, really versatile and comes in a variety of styles which makes it such an awesome transitional piece for layering when it’s still a wee bit breezy. I am a fan of the bohemian styles. Think Aztec vibrant patterns, intricate embellishments, fringing and a relaxed fit. Monsoon actually have really nice ones in at the minute, so do Topshop and Mango. Keep them casual with plain tees, skinny fit jeans and cute pumps. It’s a Coachella worthy outfit – especially if accessorised well with lots of bangles, a chunky necklace, or lots of simple rings.
New age flare
I LOVE A GOOD FLARE! Free People have always stayed true to the flare, but now everyone else is catching on and I actually could not be happier. They come in a traditional fit and flare style which look great when patterned, stick to vertical patterns though as these elongate your legs. The wide-leg style is the best transitional piece as they come in reasonably lightweight fabrics and fantastic block colours. You could be bold and wear a statement colour with a patterned crop, or – my personal choice – you can try white trousers, an asymmetrical fitted crop and some pointed courts.
Abs out
The piece that I believe brings all these styles together is the crop. Now is the time to acceptably bear your midriff, especially now stores are teeming with styles that allow a respectable flash of flesh. ASOS asymmetrical crops are cool and geometric, which means you can wear them with pretty much anything: get the sport luxe vibe with bomber jackets, go bohemian with your wide leg trousers and boxy crop, or test tailored and girly with board shorts. Topshop also do some silk long-line bralets that look great with these trends, as well as a new length skirt known as the tea skirt. The two piece crop and bottom combos are a fabulous spring update.
