Our resident fashion expert Lauren Goodman canvasses the collections to see how spring's top trends stack up for San Francisco's stylish ladies.
1. Sporty Spice
The athletic look leaps into fashion with wetsuits, tennis sweaters, windbreaker skirts, Prada's take on Tevas, and Céline's Birkenstocks. The tension between working up a sweat and werking a lewk is finer than ever.
LG Says: Patagucci Forever
The Look: Tommy Hilfiger
2. Heavy Metal
Dripping, liquid, or solid gold – metal is right for day or night. For the daring type on a wild night, a gleaming blazer or jumpsuit will, well, shine. Or, achieve a more subtle glimmer by layering a little lamé with denim or knit.
LG Says: Decadent
The Look: Lanvin
Try It: Saint Laurent Boots, $895 at Barneys
3. National Geographic
Tribal looks from around the world are having a big influence on designers. The Bay Area has always loved an ethnic reference, so why stop now? A touch of fringe, embroidery, or handicraft is modern!
LG Says: Very Berkeley
The Look: Valentino
Try It: Stir It Up Bikini, $160 at Bantu Wax
4. Oxford University
The banker's white collar is terribly sexy. Work a shirt in town, and take a dress or shorts on an urbane holiday. Button up to the neck for a hipster-chic vibe, or keep it open for Lauren Hutton hotness.
LG Says: Cool and Crisp.
The Look: Alexander Wang
5. Longer Lengths
Midcalf skirts are an of-the-moment wink among fashion cognoscenti, committed to the ever-moving hemline. Shapes can be slim or quite full – the latter feels fresher. Wear it with a chunky, sporty heel or a delicate, pointy pump. Even a Jesus sandal will do – think Napa.
LG Says: I love an ankle.
The Look: Proenza Schouler
6. Art Market
Painterly brushstrokes – from classical fresco to contemporary Gar Hume – dominate. For Art 1010 students, just a bleed of watercolor will do. For masters-level attendees of SFMOMA's ModernBall in April, the wearer can be one big canvas.
LG Says: No rules
The Look: Aquilano Rimondi
Try It: The Boob Top, $72 at Gravel and Gold
7. Pleats Please
Accordion skirts go from schoolgirl to sophisticated as the classic pleat catapults center stage and into eveningwear. Look for modern interpretations, or just pull out the original. But avoid knee socks – this look is all grown up.
LG Says: Prissy Chic
The Look: Christian Dior
Click here to see our top spring trends for men!
This article was published in 7x7's March issue. Click here to subscribe.