I cannot believe it has been a YEAR since I've done a trend watch.  I really suck at this blogging thing, don't I?

DISCLAIMER: never sacrifice fit  or comfort for a trend.  Most trends do not last.  It is not worth it.  That being said, here are a few on-trend styles, colors, and accessories that have been circulating the small-town stores that you should get in on and stay out of.

Get it!

Modern Neon Tribal

Tribal patterns used to be reserved for old-school blanket sweaters, but they've been given an update this spring.  The patterns have been modernized and have become more geometric, and the colors are now bright and inviting.  It's still a risk, but it's becoming one that is easier to take.

60's Beach Retro

There isn't anything not to love about this trend.  Crop tops with high-waisted shorts, adorable day dress with open backs, exaggerated sunglasses, and bold colors are taking over.  There is something for every body type within this trend, and the looks are not SO retro that it becomes a costume, so every item will last past this season.

Statement Necklaces

While this isn't particularly a trend, statement necklaces have definitely been a more prominent staple of the accessories department.  No matter how casual or formal your look is, it can always be pumped up by a chunky statement piece.  Especially this spring, necklaces in bright, bold colors set the perfect note.

Skip it!

Palazzo Pants

These weren't good in the late 60's/Early 70's, and they aren't good now.  There are a select few quirky people who are capable of pulling them off, but those people are so few and far between, and I doubt this trend will last past this summer.

Midi Rings

I just don't understand this concept.  Don't they fall off??  Why would anyone want a ring less than an inch off the edge of your finger?!?  Maybe someone can explain this to me.  I just think it's dumb.

High-End Activewear

This isn't wrong in and of itself, but if we're being honest, this trend just isn't necessary.  You're going to be working out and SWEATING in it.  It isn't going to stay nice.  What's the point of spending hundreds of dollars on pants or a jacket that aren't going to last?  I'll fully admit that Anthropologie's Pure+Good activewear line is adorable, and Lululemon has many a cute item.  BUT STILL.  It's just not worth it in the long run.

Hey everyone!!  I haven't done a trend watch since last fall and I figure it's about time for a spring trend update!

DISCLAIMER: never sacrifice fit  or comfort for a trend.  Most trends do not last.  It is not worth it.  That being said, here are a few on-trend styles, colors, and accessories that have been circulating the small-town stores that you should get in on and stay out of.

Get it!

Bright ActiveWear

Basic sweatpants and pullovers are getting re-vamped in bright neon greens and oranges with contrasting stitching.  Even running shoes are getting in on the trend...FINALLY, one can be adorable while working out!

French Resort

This trend is easy to work with piece-by-piece and super fun to put into outfits.  With punchy reds and blues combined with classic black and denim items and statement jewelry, you're sure to look chic.  Keep an eye out for eye-catching backs in tops and dresses!

Soft Pastels

Pastels are always a spring staple, but mint greens and soft shell pinks have been showing up everywhere in all manner of items.  The colors are universally flattering and will carry well into summer. 

Neon Jeans

A lot of people don't think they can pull this look off, but nothing rings in spring like a pair of bright bold pants.  Setting if off with an easy, plain top makes for a simple, pulled-together look.

Detailed Sandals

From cool metal accents to intricate leather cutouts, your plain flat sandal is getting an update this year.

Skip it!

Hot Pants

I don't know why shorts keep getting shorter because I don't know a single girl whose butt/hips can handle shorts with no inseam.  Just don't, ladies.

Leggings-As-Pants

This has been a thing for a long time, but I've been seeing it more and more as the weather gets warmer and people are wearing their workout-wear outside.  All I know is that leggings should never be pants.  Ever.

Wonky Tye-Dye

Tye-Dye hasn't been in since I was in elementary school, and it's coming back now in extraordinarily odd colors and fabrics.  Chiffon and tye-dye do not belong.  Nor does gatorade orange and tye-dye.  Who thought that was a good plan?

10-inch Wedges

How anyone walks in them is beyond me...there are plenty of wedges and flat sandals that are just as cute and far more practical.  Plus no woman needs to be that tall.

Rhinestones

Whoever decided cheap-o glittery rhinestone jewelry should be in was really dumb.  It always looks inexpensive and juvenile. 

- Jordan -
- 4-15-13 -

With Fall well under way, it's probably an appropriate time to discuss things that have been trending these past few months.

DISCLAIMER: never sacrifice fit  or comfort for a trend.  Most trends do not last.  It is not worth it.  That being said, here are a few on-trend styles, colors, and accessories that have been circulating the small-town stores that you should get in on and stay out of.

Get It!

Jewel Toned Color Blocking
Color-blocking NEVER goes out of style, and the jewel toned purples, teals, and greens are universally flattering and scream "autumn."              

Peplum
This vintage-inspired style is great if you like a retro vibe, and it's shape is magnificently camouflaging on waists, tummies, and love handles.  What more could you ask for?

Skinny Cords
A modern twist on an old favorite, this new shape in a classic fabric is a must.  The colored ones are a fun and quirky alternative for the artsy among us.

Fedoras
A flattering hat on everyone's head.  They're coming out in adorable patterns and colors these days.

Riding Boots
A grown-up alternative to Uggs as the weather gets colder - they're flat, they're stylish, and they'll last you forever.

Skip it!

Body Con Ponte Dresses
"Body Con" anything is a poor life decision.  Most women's "problem" area lies below the waist, and this cut and this fabric accentuates everything a woman doesn't want people to see.  Good rule of thumb:  if you can't wear underwear with it, leave it at the store.

Flapper Fringe
I love 1920s style as much as anyone, but there's a way to get that style without being so literal.  Everyone will know you got that top or that dress in the year the new Great Gatsby movie came out, and it's not a classic look.

Literal Vintage Glasses
If it looks identical to something your grandmother wore in the 1950s, there's a good chance it's going to go out of style FAST.  Glasses go on your face, everyone has to look at them, and they had better be perfect.  Literal vintage is not perfect.

Literal Army Boots
I have no clue who likes these, but they do not look good.  On anyone.  Ever.  Whoever told you they were cool was lying.  That's really all there is to it.

Skinny Heeled Booties
Just one of those things that looks pretty but will kill you.  Your feet will hurt, your back will hurt, and you could easily fall and hurt yourself worse.  Unless you're a high-stilettos expert (so, a supermodel) leave these behind and go for something lower.

- Jordan -
- 10-26-12 -