These days, shelves all over the city are filling up with spring merchandise. This season promises to be one of spirit, style and imagination, offering many colors and style influences—from ship to shore ensembles, to globally-inspired looks, to outfits reflecting of the Wild West. Follow along with us as we awaken our senses to the varied looks and styles of spring…
The color stories making a splash this season range from soft pastels and neutrals to bold and bright colors (and even a touch of neon). Kids might wear monochrome neutrals such as white and black for a more formal look , kick back with shades of pastel pink, sky blue, mint, lilac and lemon yellow, or, if they’re feeling adventurous, strike out on the town with bold shades of cobalt blue, raspberry, sunburst or Kelly green. Primary colors such as cherry red, sunshine and earth blue will also be popular and let kids show off their confidence. Navy and white will be the season’s most popular colors, with nautical looks sailing back in on everything from clothing to accessories.%uFFFD With their crisp and bold looks and clean lines, these fashions exude a whimsical feel kids will appreciate. %uFFFD
From wide stripes to thin lines, it’s stripes galore.%uFFFD For everyday wear you will see them on t-shirts, shorts, and dresses as well as accessories. On the tennis court, boys and girls alike will give off the charm of old-world club style with pleated skirts paired with striped cardigans and chevron stripe sweaters and vests paired with white pants. Whether you are on the beach, at the pool, or in your cabana, the stripes of the season will follow you wherever you go.
Global-inspired touches will infuse everything from clothes to shoes. Whether it’s a taste of India in the form of beading and embroidery, or a touch of raffia from Madagascar, children will feel influences from around the world with the varied embellishments offered. Tribal references will also be prominent as exotic prints turn up all over clothes and accessories—as do a touch of natural stones for an earthy look.
If biker chic is more your child’s style, there’s plenty of leather to go around. Hardware, such as studs and chains, will be on everything from clothing to belts. Don’t remember the ‘80s? Well, smiley faces and lightening bolts along with shades of neon in fuchsia, tangerine and lime will refresh your memory! You will feel as if you are in a time warp with paint splattered t-shirts and off-the-shoulder tops reminiscent of the movie, “Flashdance.”
Love the sweet look of delicate ruffles and simplistic patterns for your little girl? Vintage looks of lace and eyelet in this season’s dresses will evoke a feminine feel. Faded florals as well as patterns in gingham, madras and solid linen can be found in many collections, with some pieces showing a bit of ruffle on the sleeve or hem. Tank dresses are everywhere, too, whether with a gathering of elastic at the bust in an A-line shape or in a straight silhouette in which a subtle color along with a faded pattern evokes a feeling of years past.
Boys will be wearing a sporty look that is neat and clean. Evoking a feeling of Old Hollywood are cable v-neck sweaters, crests on blazers, and Bermuda shorts—all with a classic, tailored look. Bold colors and patterns create a little jazz in shirts, which are offset with a solid trouser or short.
Kick off your boots as prairie looks from the good old U.S.A. hit the shelves this season. Denim will be popular in various shades and treatments, whether in jeans, skirts and dresses, or shorts. Pair these with gingham or plaid tops in a variety of colors. Faded floral blouses and dresses are a must, with bandanas as a choice accessory. And dresses in madras prints will give off the feel of the Old West.
Anything goes this spring when it comes to shoes. Girls won’t want to leave home without their sandals, which will be embellished with natural stones, rhinestones, jewels and flowers. Meanwhile, boys’ sandals will feature earthy leather straps. Boat shoes are back in solids and madras prints, and, along with sneakers, will have rope details on the sides to fit in with the season’s popular nautical look. And jellies are not just for the beach anymore: Add a jewel to their assorted vivid color choices, and away you go! Mary Janes will also be popular in shades of metallic. When it comes to color choices, black-and-white is a great choice—you will see many white and black patents for girls, while boys will be seen in black leather loafers for family get-togethers and holidays.
