Apr 17, 2013

6 Trends for Men’s Spring Fashion

As we say adieu to the cold winter months, it’s time to bid farewell to the drab, thick wardrobe we’ve been wearing all winter.  Guys, unless you have that Tony Stark vibe working for you, now’s a good time to welcome the changing of the seasons with a switch in your attire. 

Of course, this doesn’t mean you need to throw out your entire winter wardrobe, which you’ll need again in the next winter cycle. Welcoming springtime with the latest styles, however, can get you into a positive and confident mood.

1. Blue is your Color

This 2013, simplicity is key. We’re not talking Spartan austerity at all. Basic whites and blacks remain classics, but the time is ripe for being bolder and more daring, through pastels. Solid pink, sky blue, or sea green designer shirts can add life to an otherwise plain suit. Nothing connotes new life and cheerfulness, more than a bright and pleasant burst of color does. Based on several fashion runways, blue, in all of its cool hues is one of the winning colors for men this year, closely followed by sunshiny yellow tones.

2. Use Stripes and Floral Prints 

Meanwhile, stripes, as well as floral prints (on ties, especially) are also a current trend. Surprisingly, florals, applied appropriately, and in the right amounts, can effectively accentuate one’s masculinity.

Florals and paisleys may not be every man’s cup of tea, though; in which case, stripes can come to the rescue. Stripes break color monotony, and can be paired superbly with most formal attire. Vertical stripes create the illusion of length, as well, making the wearer look taller.

3. Play with Texture

Quit worrying that it makes you look like a dandy. The thing is, the texture and feel of crushed velvet can be downright sexy. Try a tan jacket, for starters. Graduate to bolder colors, such as burgundy or rust, when you’ve grown accustomed to mixing it in with your regular wardrobe. It’ll lend you an air of daring and sexy, a plus when you’re out with the ladies.

4. Keep Cool with Trench Coats and Jackets
Flickr/ILove2Love

The weather is still relatively cool, and it helps to don coats and jackets to keep warm. While men’s coats generally adhere to specific cuts, this year’s trenches are predicted to follow a more loose and free-flowing approach. 

Those who prefer a more traditional look need not worry either, as one can always opt for classic leather or vintage bomber jackets. These classic numbers never go out of style.

5. Get Comfy in Loafers


Flickr/Robert Shale

These come in many styles and are made for comfort. Once considered too casual for any formal setting, loafers can now be acceptably worn with your favorite suit. Choose a pair with tassels for al fresco lunch, or one in rich, dark leather for a full-on serious look at dinner.

6. Boldly Accessorize

Since you’re dressing to impress and setting the tone for an upbeat change, why not top it all off with the proper accessory? Men’s fashion this spring is also leaning towards all things metallic. Though, that’s no excuse to go crazy and wear layers of bling. In a season where minimalism is king, stick to basics. Rings crafted from white gold or platinum suggest elegance and taste. Necklaces made of leather, with pendants of silver and onyx, imply a sense of style while heralding masculinity.

Don’t stop there, experiment with hats too. Panama hats, worn with long sleeves or with a sweater, can give you a vintage style that’s truly your own. On the other hand, if hats are too much for you, try some eyewear. Squared-off eyeglasses go with dark suits, and with light, casual wear alike. Try rimless ones for a seamless look.

Overall, the trend this spring season is a delicate balance between restraint and light-heartedness. The use of bold, chalky pastels, and of metallic or velvety textures contrast with otherwise stern rules on Western men’s fashion, thus creating a 2013 look worth more than a thousand words.

About the Author:

Sharon Sussman is a gemologist at Brilliance.com, where she also maintains the company blog. If this article was helpful, you may also be interested in some spring wardrobe tips for women, too.

Apr 1, 2013

Don’t Let Pregnancy Deter You from Wearing Trendy Dresses


Kate Middleton and her better half Prince William of the royal British family are expecting their first child. However, that doesn’t stop the Duchess of Cambridge from dressing up stylishly. Being pregnant does not indicate that you stop wearing the outfits you loved wearing before, dresses for example. Just follow the guidelines given below to understand the type of outfits that are perfect during this period:


Maxi Dresses are Versatile


This is one kind of dress which can be worn for any occasion during pregnancy. It’s extremely comfortable and moreover comes in different styles. Women can pick from sleeveless, halter or spaghetti. Add a chunky necklace to your maxi dress and obtain a classy look.

Choose Soft & Stretchy Fabrics
Your skin tends to get sensitive in the course of pregnancy and also the body temperature might be more than normal. Therefore, you should wear dresses made from natural fibres such as cotton, viscose, etc. which is breathable and keep you cool. Avoid materials like polyester, acrylic, etc. that could irritate the skin.

Patterned Dresses Divert Attention


Opt for subtle, feminine prints that look elegant and most importantly distract attention from the baby bump. In addition, select dark hues that feature patterns, in shades make you appear thinner. Complete the ensemble with a delicate scarf or wrap.

Few Designer Options You can Choose from
Several high-end labels offer trendy yet comfortable designer dresses for ladies who are expecting. 

They include:

  • A camel colour half-sleeve dress created by Cavalli Class. This knee-length dress has attractive black and white embroidery on the neck. Manufactured from viscose, it has a slim belt that is to be tied low.
  • Go for Scervino cap-sleeve creation in stone shade. With lace detailing on the neck, sleeves and hem, this empire-cut cotton dress will flatter your silhouette.
  • Black flared knee-length party dress designed by Balmain is really a class apart, with silver stud embroidery adorning the V-neck. Who says expectant mothers can’t enjoy a night-out?
  • A Dsquared white cotton dress is perfect for summer. It features colourful buttons along the neck and on the chest pockets. All you need are some vibrant bangles to complement the outfit
Why wear dull loose-fitting clothes during pregnancy when there are such wonderful choices available. Moreover, web-based luxury boutiques let you buy designer clothing online, eliminating the need for you to hunt for them at numerous stores.