It can be so overwhelming after watching endless Tik Toks or reading blogs, so I gladly summarized the iconic pieces in under four minutes.
In the world of fashion, it can be so intimidating to keep up with the trends. Personally, I don’t keep up with each trend, but I do incorporate some of my favorites into my style. Remember that the way you dress does not define who you are and you should not change your style to stay up to date. I compiled a few of my current favorite trends and/or things I already have in my closet that still can be “trendy.”
Denim
Denim is so easy! What you already have in your closet you can mix and match, cut up, or wear differently. As most of you know, my generation has called out skinny jeans, so if you want to hop off that trend, here are a few styles you can start with:
Target has a great selection of boyfriend jeans. Most of mine are bought there; the Wild and Fable brand is my favorite. Francesca’s carries the best mom jeans that are actually stretchy for your thighs. I like their Harper brand because they are like a cheaper dupe for American Eagle. My favorite part about Harper jeans is the variety of shades, styles, and lengths they offer. Once you feel comfortable in boyfriend and mom jeans, try out the wide-legged denim by shopping at H&M or Princess Polly. I think they offer a great variety of jeans you can try out and wear this spring season.
Denim jeans are not the only staple you need this spring – you need a denim jacket for layering your looks! A jean jacket can change the entire vibe of your look, taking it from formal to casual chic. I like pairing light-washed denim jackets with pastel, neutral, and darker clothing. If you wear warm tones, blues, or shades of green, try wearing a darker shade of denim. Adding layers to your look adds depth and definition to your figure. My favorite denim jackets are at your local TJMaxx or anywhere that sells Levi’s jackets.
Neutrals
Neutrals are great colors to add to your wardrobe. What I have been purchasing lately have been graphic tees, outwear, shorts, and dresses. I love muted and nude tones of neutral colors because they contrast with my olive skin tone. As a Latina, I love colors that can really bring out my skin color when the weather gets warmer.
Find a shade that makes your skin feel the most beautiful and the most confident in. Once you’ve done that, don’t be afraid to reach for ivory and sand tones. These are great colors to mix darker or warmer-toned clothing with. Lighter colors will add dimension to your look and they are great to mimic the light flowers that bloom.
Chunky Shoes
Before you completely skip this paragraph, allow me to ease you into this trend. I actually was inspired by Rosalia’s chunky white shoes she would perform in. This was a trend I slowly saw unfold at the end of 2019. Well, it made its way back around but with a variety of shoes and styles.
If you have been to your local Target, there are a variety of chunky sandals and wedges on display. Whether you are a sneaker or sandal type of gal, try adding some height to your favorite look with these shoes. I am 5’7 and, although for so long I was afraid of being taller, this trend has helped me come out of that fear. I like to add chunky sneakers to my “running errands” look or to a casual t-shirt dress. My favorite places to shop for chunky shoes are Princess Polly, DSW, or Fila. They offer different styles of shoes and Fila sneakers that are so comfortable.
Small Purses
Accessories are important for every outfit – whether it’s casual or dressy. They tie the entire outfit together. Small purses have been on my timeline 24/7 lately and I am not mad about it. I grew up wearing small purses like mini clutches, cross bodies, or clear bags. My current obsessions are the small leather purses and jelly crossbodies.
When I am wearing a lounge set or a simple jean and tee look, I always wear my leather crossbody. And, when I am dressing up just a tad more, I pair it with a jelly crossbody. These bags are not hard to find – my current jelly bag is from Aubrey’s Attic Co. (a local Kansas City online boutique). You can also find a variety of bags on Zara, H&M, or Princess Polly.
Shades
The sun is literally my best friend in the summer. I love getting a good tan, going on a hike, or just having dinner on a patio. Another fun accessory to pair with your outfit is some bold and colorful shades. I love a simple aviator shape, circle shape, or an oversized square shape.
My favorite places to get shades are from Quay, Francesca’s, or a local boutique. They always offer quality and most of them are under $50! I worked at Francesca’s for years, so their two-for-$14 deal is to die for. I have had these aviator pairs since 2018 – they have gone to Central America, Europe, and the West Coast and back. They truly are worth the under $20 hype and you get to choose another pair, too!
Spring is a fun season to mix and match trends, add some bold accessories, and play with new looks. Try something you have been wanting to try out, whether it’s in style or not because, at the end of the day, it’s your style! Express yourself with your clothing and don’t be afraid to show up overdressed.
About the Author
Melanie Oliva is a student journalist at the University of Missouri. She is majoring in Journalism with an emphasis in Magazine Writing and Investigating Journalism and a minor in Women and Gender Studies. Melanie loves shopping local, oat milk lattes, and listening to music. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter.