It's spring cleaning time, which means out with the old, in with the new – and that includes your closet, as well as your kids' closets. If the sudden climb in temp has you searching for your hot (and hot weather) wardrobe, but it's nowhere to be found, it may be time to hit your local stores for a summer style update. Consider shopping local and popping into Bergen County boutiques, which offer unique pieces and a comfortable, neighborly shopping experience. Here are the fashion trends you can expect for the summer (hint: there's something for everyone).
Comfort Chic The good news is you don't have to sacrifice comfort for fashion, and Michel Bezoza, owner of Hunt and Orchard in Westwood, echoes that sentiment with her picks. "I always come from the angle of comfort, and I believe fabrics should have movement and stretch," says Bezoza. Dressed up athleisure, such as joggers with blazers and flat sandals, or oversized denim with soft white tees and sneakers are on trend (and we highly approve!) Hunt & Orchard's music and pop culture inspired fashions are reflected in another spring/summer trend: vintage. Find vintage dresses, Levi's denim shorts and vintage tees. "Our customer likes to keep their look unique by purchasing one of a kind vintage no one else will have!"
Sustainable Fashion Loving the earth and taking care of the planet is always on trend, and the fashion industry is taking note. At Ave Lumi in Tenafly, all pieces for women and children are ethically created using sustainable methods such as certified organic cotton fabrics and vegan products, partnering with brands with a commitment to fair labor, and recycling and reusing materials to reduce waste. Look for flowing dresses in comfortable fabrics and patterns such as florals and tie dye, or pair black flare jeans with a bright shirt to add a pop or color. Not only will you look good wearing a sustainable style, you'll feel good inside and out.
Basics for Your Body Type The number one thing to remember when it comes to trying new trends is dressing for your body type and knowing what looks good on you, especially when you're in a time crunch. At Suite 201 in Ridgewood, there are plenty of styles for every body type and taste, but the main theme this summer is color. "We're seeing so many different colors for shoes and dresses, it feels like everyone is trying to stay away from black!" says owner Alina Leshiner. Stock your closet with florals in cute sets, a good blazer, straight leg denim, and don't be afraid of bodysuits which can be super flattering. You can also add in color through accessories such as beaded bracelets and bright green sandals.
Flowy Florals This summer, stray away from restrictive fabrics and go with the flow in floral looks that move with you. Ginger N' Cream in Westwood – with stores for women, teens and the young kids – offers that vacation style with flowing floral dresses in short, midi and maxi lengths. Or, pair a loose floral blouse with a matching skirt set or denim jeans or shorts for a comfortable, casual and cute summer look.
Set One Set Two Matching sets are an effortless, easy way to instantly look put together, and to get dressed quickly. Think of them as that grab-and-go item for the on-the-run mom (and aren't we all?) They're a great alternative to a full jumpsuit, and can be found in solids and fun prints, pants and skirts, crop tops and light jackets. The possibilities are endless. At Envy, which recently opened in downtown Ridgewood, find comfortably chic sets in stripes and funky patterns. Shop solid, patterned and color-blocked sets in casual styles or for that girls night out at Hazel Boutique in Ramsey, which offers playful looks that a perfect for summer.
