From well-trod international street style inspiration to tried-and-true local labels on the ground, here’s our pick of the freshest new-season looks.
As a season of new beginnings, there’s a lot to be excited about in the lead-up to spring. Working in fashion media, I’m most excited to – finally – purchase a look (or two) I have been following during the months of fashion shows and photoshoots that prepare us for drops as well-timed as dew from a daffodil.
Without further ado, here are the spring looks that will make you feel brand new:
Going Green
When I envisage a spring wardrobe, green is the background colour of my fashion fantasies. I can almost smell the cut grass when I look at this new crop of verdant garments, and if a shopping trip does not invoke some of the senses (on or offline), then is it really worth it? My greener pastures focus on striking tones, from pea to pistachio, and a new floral pattern that is the pick of the bunch. As a general rule, gold accents go best with green – so pop on some bulbous gold earrings, and let the rest of your outfit grow from there.
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Short-Shorts
From the most unlikely of fashion inspirations (Paul Mescal), the short-short has popped up all over the show of the European event season. Comfortable and carefree, it’s easy to see why boxer-style shorts have become a big hit. Perhaps, you already have a pair of pyjama or loungewear shorts that will go the distance. The best way to introduce these to the outside world is with a crisp, pressed shirt over top. Or, if you are ready for a new pair, look for quality fabrications that you can tuck a soft tee into, too. If you haven’t already purchased a piece of New Zealand fashion history, you may also consider a pair of Canterbury ‘stubbies’ for a true-blue twist on the trend.
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Shirt Dresses
While shirtdresses have long been a staple of office workers in warmer climes, their recent re-branding as a fashion statement piece has reminded me of how valuable they can be. Sure, I wear my 100% cotton shirtdresses on days I have meetings in the sticky city, but they also travel with me on holidays – an easy cover-up by the beach. Just because structured shirtdresses mean business – doesn’t mean they are boring, and I love that this season we are seeing a variety of both pull-over and button-down styles with waist ties and drop waists as suits. New patterns, from pinstripe to florals, make for a solid investment, too.
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Bubble Hems
I’ll admit it: When I first saw bubble-hemmed garments come to the surface of the fashion scene, I was sceptical about their staying power. But some effortlessly – and effervescently – stylish mini skirts from local labels have won me over. Satin or striped, they remind me of bloomers in the best possible way. This new cut is so sweet, it works for special events, too. Bubble hems in longer dresses evoke the luxurious draping of ball gowns – froth without the fuss.
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