Campus chic
At spring 2008 shows, the biggest hit was the use of prints of all sorts — super-structured florals graced the Balenciaga runway, and Dries van Noten incorporated many wild prints into each piece. At Chloe, paint strokes across dresses dominated the runway, and Prada emphasized ethereal, fairy-tale art. A common theme throughout most designers’ shows was to give clothes a retro appeal by using electric colors, sheer, loose fabrics, high-waisted, wide-legged pants, and even floor-sweeping dresses for day.
Architecture sophomore Alex Legrady celebrates the warm weather with a vibrant paisley skirt. Always fit for casual yet delicate days, skirts of all different shapes, prints, and cuts serve as the perfect centerpiece for any outfit.
“One of my favorite designers is Alexander McQueen — he’s brilliant,” said Legrady, who mirrors the designer’s influence in her style.
Like McQueen, known for designing and mixing outrageous, loud, and unconventional pieces, Legrady complements her green skirt with a cropped purple cardigan to tone the outfit down. A simple black top and scarf keep her look clean and allow her skirt to be the focus of the outfit.
On the other side of the spectrum, “safari chic” also made a huge dent on spring runways, with designers like Phillip Lim (creative director of the label 3.1 Phillip Lim) reverting back to clean-cut, neutral tones that stand out in warmer days. Khaki dresses and lightweight, feminine trench coats paired with earthy sandals were the most popular, and such pieces have already hit stores and are available at any price-point.
A fan of 3.1 Phillip Lim, sophomore design major Alexandra Woolfson shows off her interpretation of some new spring trends. She gets her inspiration from fashion blogs like “The Sartorialist” (thesartorialist.blogspot.com), a site known for capturing breathtaking street style.
“I wear things to flatter my body, and I love to push proportions,” said Woolfson, whose outfit is a perfect example. Her creme mini-dress is cinched at the waist with a thin brown belt, emphasizing feminine structure. Woolfson’s caramel-colored suede flats hint at the safari trend, but what’s most flattering about them are the T-straps — they instantly elongate the legs and give an unexpected twist. Her cropped navy jacket is also an essential, perfect for breezy days.
Spring is always an innovative time for fashion because it reflects the season and culture. This year, it is all about nature and our surroundings — from bright floral dresses to boho safari, it redefines what to wear for those upcoming sunny days. Legrady’s and Woolfson’s styles may be different, but they are both executed perfectly and just in time for spring.