It makes perfect sense that spring runways are always full of new dress trends. And spring 2013 was no different. Several big trends in pattern, cut, and color popped for this season. Let’s take a look at some of the most common dress themes from the spring shows...
The Ocean Blue Dress
While the black and white of Marc Jacobs was the headline from the spring 2013 ready-to-wear runways, many shades of ocean blue also turned up at the shows, from pale aqua to deep azure. Derek Lam, Oscar de la Renta, and Philip Lim all showed gorgeous blue dresses.
You can recreate the same magic with a solid blue dress with an amazing cut, like the Lanvin dress pictured here. For a less pricey option, try the work-appropriate Black Halo Jackie O Colorblocked Sheath Dress at $345.00, or the flirty Eliza J Blouson Sleeve A-Line Dress at $138.00.
→ Buy the Lanvin Draped Back Dress, $1,235.00, at nordstrom.com; shipping and returns are free.
The Graphic Print Dress
Let’s get back to that whole Marc Jacobs black and white thing. You really can’t miss with a black and white graphic print dress this spring, and you don’t have to throw down the cash for Marc to get the look.
This Eliza J Crepe Dress would be perfect for a wedding shower or similarly festive daytime event, and the price is right for a special occasion dress that you won’t wear many times. For a super-wearable take on the black and white striped look go for the Kate Spade Angie Knit Sheath Dress at $378.00, or take a less-stripey approach to B&W with the chain print Diane von Furstenberg Reina Silk Shift Dress at $298.00.
→ Buy the Eliza J Stripe Crepe Dress, $168.00, at nordstrom.com; shipping and returns are free.
The Emerald Green Dress
Unless you have been living under an anti-fashion rock, you’ve likely heard that emerald green is the color of spring 2013. I’m kind of biased since green is my absolute favorite color, but I think this is one trend purchase you’ll still be excited to pull out of your closet years from now.
I’m ridiculously in love with this super impractical Stella McCartney Belted Contour Gown. Isn’t it to die for? If you don’t have need for a $5k green gown, try this Princess Kate-worthy Issa Ruched Silk Jersey Dress at $625.00, or the sumptuous Halston Heritage Gathered Gown at $395.00.
→ Buy the Stella McCartney Belted Contour Gown, $5,180.00, at neimanmarcus.com.
The Lace Dress
Don’t let the word lace scare you off. This spring’s lace dresses are super chic and not overly girly-girl. In fact, this is one lace trend you could even wear to the office. Seriously.
For a lace look that could go to all but the most conservative offices, check out the Adrianna Papell Lace Sheath Dress pictured here. For a party look, the Tadashi Shoji Textured Lace Dress is both fun and sophisticated at $308.00. If money’s no object and a fancy brunch is on your social calendar, you can’t miss with the fashion-forward Valentino Lace & Organza Dress at $3,290.00.
→ Buy the Adrianna Papell Lace Sheath Dress, $118.00, at nordstrom.com; shipping and returns are free.
The Ruffle Dress
I’ve already covered some modern takes on the ruffle trend, but the dress options for this trend are really deserving of a little special attention. Thank you Gucci for showing us that ruffles can be sophisticated, even in dress form.
Ruffles and bows go grown-up when paired with a body-con fit, like in the RED Valentino dress pictured here. For a more-is-more take on the trend, check out the Max Mara Torre Ruffled Poplin Dress at $750.00. For a plus-size option, try the Adrianna Papell Ruffled Sheath Dress at $140.00.
→ Buy the RED Valentino Bow Detail Dress, $450.00, at nordstrom.com; shipping and returns are free.
