Tickle Me Chic

Sunday, January 9, 2011

By Jody Marich

A lot of collections for spring 11' seem to have a 1970's vibe. Working in retail, I noticed a lot of long, flowy tops and dresses with retro/ flower prints.

I always had a hidden love for fashion of the '70s. When we began receiving spring shipment in at Express, I was in heaven.

This is a dress, (above), that I had to have. Since it still is a little cool out, I pair it with black tights, camel boots and my favorite belt, which I bought at the same time as the dress. I loved it because it's a vintage look but with a care free vibe.

This is my version of the outfit, for the colder months.

Sheer and satin fabrics are making a big comeback along with florals. Every year there is a degree of florals in spring fashions, but this year the florals are bold and sporadic, leaving the fashionista more options.

Floral by littlemissjojo featuring cotton t-shirts

Another great addition to spring collections has been the cinched waist. This allows a belt to be easily added to break up the pattern, giving the outfit another dimension of style. AND once again, allowing you to have more options on how to wear the look.

it's a cinch by littlemissjojo featuring print dresses

Flare jeans are another BIG trend for spring. I am seeing everything from white to distressed flares. Dress pants have jumped on the bandwagon too.

Here are a few more sites to check out the '70s influence in spring 2011 fashion.

❝A new generation would be lucky to experience some of the high points of the '70s....We thought we had invented freedom and our clothes reflected that. Somehow, young people today look at it and embrace it. It's an era of optimism, creativity, freedom. Most important, it feels totally relevant.❞

--Diane von Furstenberg

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

While looking at my Google alerts, I stumbled upon Marie Claire's 108 Spring Dresses. After looking through their choices I decided to write a post about my 5 favorite spring dresses under $50. Since a lot of college students, don't have deep pockets, I am hoping this post is useful for the fashionistas out there.

Each spring, super cute dresses pop up. Every girl should have at least one spring dress in her closet. These 5 fun and flirty dresses are my top choices.

1. Urban Outfitters, Kimchi Blue Strapless Knit Dress: $48
This feminine dress includes two fabulous trends. It has a ruffle top & a floral print. My suggestion is to add a chunky belt to increase the boho/vintage look. Pair it with a cute wedge or gladiator sandal to complete the look.

2. Forever 21, Twelve by Twelve, Pearl Trim Military Dress: $32
This military style dress is right on trend for spring. The military trend that sprouted up last fall has only gotten bigger with spring and summer trends. This dress will give you a sleek edge while staying uber stylish. To add extra edginess to this look switch the belt out with a studded belt.

3. dELiA*s, Jade Floral Dress: $44.50
This floral dress is fun and flirty while still being very girly and fashionable. The print gives the dress a vintage feel yet it's still very stylish keeping up with the floral trend. This is a perfect little dress for a night out with friends or a fun filled day, like Easter!

4. Modcloth, Halter Monitor Dress: $44.99
This adorable lightweight chambray dress is stylish and chic. AND the best part about it is it has pockets! Chambray is one of the most popular trends this spring. This dress is super fabulous and can be dressed up with wedges, heel clogs, or strappy sandals. It can also be dressed down by wearing ballet flats, gladiator sandals, or cowboy boots, my personal fave. I would also suggest finding a fun belt to wear so you can break the color up. Use it as the focal point in your outfit.

5. Alloy, Erika Studded Dress: $46.90
This fabulous dress is perfect for spring and summer. The gold studded detail throughout enhances the boho chic look. You can dress it up with lots of bangles,a long chain necklace with charms, and boots or keep it simple, just wearing a cute pair of sandals. Embellishment and detail is a huge trend right now, so this little dress is a perfect choice.