Spring 2013: Which Trends Will be crossing the Pond

Feb 2013

Magdalena Kapela

Milan, Paris and London are home to some of the world’s most iconic fashion houses – Chanel, Gucci, Burberry – just to name a few. The eyes of fashionistas from around the globe keep a close watch on the European runways to see which trends we can expect in the new season. We asked five fashion bloggers in Toronto to tell us which Spring 2013 trends they can’t wait to see on the streets and how to wear them.

KRYSTIN from http://suburbanfauxpas.blogspot.ca

Trend: Black and White Monochrome

“My favourite trend from the European runways for the Spring/Summer 2013 season is a Monochrome look. Bold black and white ensembles were sent down runways in London, Milan and Paris with playful nods to an influence from the 1960s. It truly is a trend that anyone can call their own and works great as a transitional look from spring to summer. You’ll find me sporting the look with some bold pattern mixing of stripes with dots and a bold dash of color be it a bright pink lipstick or a cropped blazer.”

Krystin’s tips on how to wear the trend:

 Tip #1: For the brave at heart- a fun-loving printed pant or skirt would pair beautifully with a bold hue on-top such as chartreuse or fuchsia.

Tip #2: A bold-print black and white blouse can easily be tamed with a black pencil skirt or cropped black trousers for a look that’s clean and crisp.

Tip # 3: Looking for a quick and easy way to sport this trend? Consider a fun manicure that incorporates a bold monochromatic look.

STEPHANIE from http://www.stephaniesterjovski.com

Trend: Lace Trench Coats

“I think the city girl will love this look, because it can take her from day to night. A lace trench is both work and evening appropriate, and looks magnificent worn over a dress. It offers an interesting element, and modern update to a timeless piece. A lace trench would look lovely dressed up or down, whether it’s a pencil skirt or jeans – heels would be a must for me! Love this look for the spring, in rain, wind or shine!”

Stephanie’s tips on how to wear the trend:

Tip #1: For a standout look, pair your trench with a statement necklace, think sparkle! The texture and glitz go together effortlessly.

Tip #2: I love mixing high and low, as much as I love to play dress up, boyfriend jeans, and a striped t-shirt look fantastic when placed against a trench.

Tip # 3: I’ve always loved the look of coats over the shoulders, without your arms in the sleeves, and just letting it elegantly sway on your back.

DEANNE from http://threadbare-dm.blogspot.ca

Trend: All White

“What strikes me most about this trend is the duality of it: it is the perfect marriage between simplicity and complexity. Even in the most structured pieces, this look is delicate and feminine. Starchy-boyfriend-esque button down shirts paired with boxy shorts or a skater skirt sounds like a literal summertime dream to me.”

Deanne’s tips on how to wear the trend:

Tip #1: Cream is not the same as white – be strategic in the way you pair your whites and off-whites.

Tip #2: Please avoid tight, white pants. They will do you no favors, I promise. Designers are showing a great deal of loose-fitting yet feminine whites, so stick to those.

Tip # 3: Layers will add a level of complexity to this trend: throw a white cardi over a white v-neck over a white button up and you’ve really got something going.

MARLA from http://www.trendstruck.com

Trend: Shimmering Metallic

“Although metallic can be worn in a bold way they don’t necessarily have to be and I think that’s the approach Toronto will take with this trend.  Some trends completely alter the shape or structure of pieces, like peplum for example; therefore it can take some time before we feel comfortable with them.  Metallics on the other hand are a finish to things we already wear and since it’s not too far off from sequin I think in small doses this trend will be accepted.  I especially see women embracing metallic brocades since a print creates a more subtle approach to the trend.”

Marla’s tips on how to wear the trend:

 Tip #1:  If you are looking to make a statement wearing metallic, go bold with either silver or gold.

Tip #2: To implement metallic in your everyday style, neutralize the trend so it’s not overpowering.  Last summer both bright colours and pastels were huge and this summer they will continue to stick.  To change things up this season you are just looking for those same colours but adding some high shine to it.  The impact of your outfit is your metallic piece so nothing else should compete with it.

Tip # 3: For those who aren’t too daring when it comes to trends, yet still love the look, complete your outfit with a metallic clutch or a pair of shoes.

ALEXANDRA from http://imalittle.com

Trend: Tomboy Shorts

” As a self-proclaimed style savant, there is nothing I love more than a trendy take on an effortlessly comfortable piece. And what screams Spring & Summer more than a fashion-friendly short that is also easily taken from day-to-night? This is certainly one of the best trends to incorporate in to your season’s wardrobe and it’s an added bonus when you feel as cozy and collected as your look represents.”

Alexandra’s tips on how to wear the trend:

Tip #1: For daytime inspirations, try this with a soft striped button-down or a light chambray shirt tucked in with a thin animal print belt. 

Tip #2: Pair with a set of loafers, or if you’re a heel aficionado like myself, try a comfortable pair of wedges or espadrilles.

Tip #3: What I love the most about this androgynous look is that you can add a bit of subtle sex appeal to your evening wear. Try your Tomboy Shorts with a low cut metallic tank and a pair of bright, strappy heels. Using a bit of subtly with your shorts paired with an overtly sexy tank adds flair to an already stylish look.