BIG STORY xxxx

FIND IT & FLAUNT IT

Whether or not you pay attention to the escapades of fashion designers on the international runways, it’s nearly impossible not to notice the influx of new fashion attitudes each spring. What we see on the runways doesn’t always translate directly to what we, here in west suburban Chicagoland, can wear to work or play, but the influences certainly filter to our best boutiques in the most stylishly wearable ways!
Zone in on the trends that suit you best, and head to these terrific retailers in your neighborhood to find—and flaunt!—your best look for spring!

DOTTY FOR SPOTS
Polka Dots are Back

Leopard spots have dominated the animal prints landscape of fashion for some years now, but their graphic prowess is equaled and complemented this season with a surprising ally: polka dots. Counterintuitive? Perhaps. Saucy? Irrefutably.

Start with a swingy blouse in classic leopard print, such as the Love|tree chiffon sleeveless Henley tank. Add some structured elements, such as a nude cami underneath and a skinny jean for balance. Then pop in a dot—a contrasting polka-dot scarf in bright tones by thirty-nine is a perfect match in cream, tan and coral—and revel in your animal magnetism.

Pick up your prints at Hot Mama, 55 N. Main St., Naperville; 630-995-3530; shopmama.com.

WALLPAPER
Florals & Leather

A cooler-weather version of the floaty top with jean-shorts mode, this is the epitome of perfect juxtaposition. A floaty, soft hued, blouse with oversized florals paired with architectural leather blends the seasons perfectly, with its inherent layering and varied degrees of coverage. Play it traditional and keep the florals and jacket tonal and subdued for a classic look. Or, take the opportunity to add a jolt of surprising color through the blouse, the jacket, or both!

The sheer, feminine blouses by Dex require a cami underneath, so either choose one that matches the base shade of the blouse (to blend in), or choose one in a color from the floral itself for a pop of color and depth. The muted-tan jacket by Kut From The Kloth will complement any and all of the natural-hued florals of this spring, or go distinctly bold in a magenta RD Style jacket with flip collar and cuffs!

Find your perfect florals-and-leather blend at Jeans & A Cute Top Shop, 161 S. First St., St. Charles; 630-444-0999; jeansandacutetopshop.com.

FASHION, AHOY!
Be Beautiful in Nautical

One ever-recurring and always warmly welcome spring trend is the nautical look. It’s cheery and feminine without being girly! What constitutes nautical fashion for 2012, you ask? This year, it’s getting back to its decidedly preppy roots, but still keeping a bit of edginess. The obvious blend of navy, white and gold lends itself naturally, but a cheeky addition, such as a jolt of color or a punk-rock handbag, keeps it current.

A navy and white striped tee is always a good base. Add one of the whitest-white knits from Habitat in either nubby cotton with raw-edged seams and darling 3/4 sleeves, or the super smooth cotton V-neck with horn buttons down the front. One last addition: a pair of on trend colored denim jeans or capris (see Code Chic, March 2012), and you’ll be ready to walk the gangway in seafaring style.

These nautical pieces and more are available at Jolie Boutique, 937 Curtiss St., Downers Grove; 630-968-3746;
jolieboutiqueonline.com.

COLOR BLOCKING
With Tangerine Tango

It’s inescapable: the Pantone-declared color of the year is already invading the spring fashion landscape. And cheerily so! This punchy hue brightens up any outfit, complements nearly every color, and looks good on every kind of accouterment—and therefore has a place in every wardrobe! Whether you’re ready for an all-out commitment (as in a tangerine dress) or just a touch (as in a handbag), there are myriad options to suit your taste for this citrus hue.

A perfect example is the Farinelli silky color-blocked tunic, in tangerine with black and unlikely-but-wildly-successful pairing, turquoise. The ruching at the left hip and tiny lace inset add a touch of femininity to this otherwise very sporty look; the bold color-blocking and boxy shape require but a simple black legging or jean.

Add a squirt of tangerine to your closet by visiting Elements & Starrs, 102 N. Hale St., Wheaton; 630-588-8450.

Stories by Lisa Gangi
Photos by Mike Mantucca