Blast - Get your spring coat out - The Online Magazine

Wanting to stay ahead of the fashion curve this season? Can’t find the one item that will give you a pulled together look?

Well my option this season is the trench coat. It is looking very special this season in all kinds of colors and price ranges to make any budget feel comfortable. Every major designer had one in their line for the season and I saw the one that Isaac Mizrahi did for Target for about $50.

The thing is, whether you are a guy or a girl, a great trench makes a great statement, and no matter who designed it, or when for that matter, this classic design will make you look chic.

They come in many lengths but for women this season the quarter length and the jacket are in.

We are not talking about your grandma’s trench either. No tan — get a bright color that is a little flirty and expressive. This style will cinch your waist and the right color will add that over the edge style.

My favorite of all the ones that I saw this season is the one by Topshop. They have one that is two toned and has an empire waisted cut. The top half is one color, then just below the bust line it is a darker shade of the same color and the sleeves are color divided the same way. I love it! It really is updated and super chic.

One look that seems hard to work with this season is the safari look. This look traditionally is very boxy and steals away the shape of the body. This season it has been updated and tailored a bit.

I have seen it cute but be cautious going for this look, it can come off odd. The best thing to do is use the exotic prints sparingly and get a pair of khaki shorts, a cargo or walking short style, and keep it simple. Add some chunky inexpensive beads and keep it easy.

For the guys this look should be all about the print. A printed tee and a great pair of shades will take you through the summer in this style. There are the printed button down shirts, but be careful to get a good safari print. You don’t want to end up looking Hawaiian. Your grandfather’s Tommy Bahama look is not what you are going for here.

Spring is always about the adorable dress and of course this year is no different. A great print is always good in spring, but this season, go for the florals. They are amazing and really awesome.

This year there is not one defining moment in the cut of the spring dress but a defining color. The blue in cornflower and powder and the lavender and soft purples are working the field. But spring is all about color, so take your favorite and run with it.

My tip is to get pieces that are light enough for summer and add a sweater or a jacket and make the items work both seasons. Layering is always a great choice for spring because it gives you great color and styling options while allowing you to stay warm and sexy.

Fashion designer Elle Bowman keeps Blast Magazine readers looking fabulous with her style columns. She is the owner and head designer of NOESLLA.

In Couture, Culture on April 1, 2008 at 01:00