Spring Fashions Inspired by Nature

Floral Fever
Spring is right around the corner, so it won’t be long until we start seeing beautiful blooms all around us. Floral prints have always been a staple in my wardrobe, but this season the plentiful amount of precious prints and pretty pops of color are making me feel the need to add some new additions to the old armoire. 

When was the last time you splurged and bought yourself a new pair of pajamas? If you are like the majority of women, it’s been a while. Most of us just throw on an old T-shirt and pair of joggers or pj pants to get ready for bed. However, once I laid my eyes on the silky hibiscus printed pajama set from Loft, I couldn’t resist treating myself. I turn into a hot lava rock when I sleep, so the soft fabric and short-sleeved top keeps me cool while I slumber. Not only does it feel sophisticated to sleep in coordinating top and bottoms, but you won’t mind your neighbors spotting you running out to fetch your morning paper in this perky little set of pjs. 

While shopping at Loft, you should also check out the abundance of skirts, dresses and accessories that all appear to be inspired by various flowers. One of my favorites is the fluttery tiered midi skirt in shades of blue and red. You can go with the Bohemian flow and pair this skirt with the irresistibly supple Loft floral bobble sweater or a classic denim shirt like the Laguna wash style from Talbot’s. If you prefer to dress it up a bit more, the skirt can certainly be paired with a crisp white button down blouse and a sleek pair of Frye Kenzie Venetian loafers in cognac from J.Jill.  

To totally elevate your look, Chico’s has a horn-inspired jewelry collection that is reminiscent of the stunning accessories I picked up on my recent trip to Africa. Go with the rectangular Pembre chandelier earrings for a subtle touch of horn, or add the oversized statement necklace for a strikingly bold look. The neutral shades of brown, tan and ivory will also pair nicely with a plethora of items that are already in your closet. 

Eye-Catching Color
If floral prints aren’t really your thing, you could try on some of the season’s best pieces in bright bold colors that can be found at Cha Boutique. The surplice bodice jumpsuit in vibrant magenta reminds me of the delicate camellia flowers that grow in my neighbor’s yard. I’m head over heels for the scalloped lace trim that begins at the neckline and continues all the way down to the bottom of the cropped wide-leg pant. This is the perfect romantic piece to wear out on your next date night. Gorgeous green palm fronds are often seen on display in the swankiest stores on 5th Avenue, as they symbolize victory, triumph and peace. The Sabine slip dress by Show Me Your Mumu in emerald green is an elegant nod to those ideals. Throw on a long chunky knit cardigan to stay cozy and on-trend during those cooler evenings in March and April. You will surely feel victorious while wearing this slinky number out on the town or to your next special event.  

Sunset in the Desert Vibes
There are so many enchanting colors found in the desert landscape and sky; and Brickwood boutique has nailed this color trend for spring. Feeling very Bohemian meets Western, you can find an array of desert-inspired hues at their adorable boutique on Broadway. One of the most notable is the Easel fun and flirty peplum top offered in dusty shades of coral and pale blue. Pair it with your favorite jeans and a timeless Brixton fedora and you will be ready to face the day. For a new take on tie dye, the Easel splash of color dress does an amazing job of reinterpreting a spectacular sunset. The pastel lavender, pink, blue and cream colors of this swingy shift dress are like looking up at the sky at dusk on the first evening of spring. Just imagining all of these dreamy prints and colors is making me want to go out and smell some fresh flowers, run barefoot through a meadow and get in touch with nature. ■

Written by: Nicole Zabriskie

Nicole Zabriskie’s resume since her 1999 graduation from Mizzou lists stints with Ralph Lauren, Dolce & Gabbana, Carlos Miele, Diesel and Michael Kors. Today, she lives in Seattle, Washington, and works as a freelance fashion stylist to spend more time at home with her daughters, Zoe and Campbell. As a freelancer, she has worked with luxury brands including Prada, Miu Miu, Lanvin and Alexander McQueen.

@EmeraldCityStylist  /  www.emeraldcitystylist.us