By Nicola Moyne
WHEN it comes to your spring/summer wardrobe, it’s easy to navigate around floral dresses, nautical tees, and t-bar flip-flops. But what about the bottoms?
Last season we saw the resurgence of the skirt, and this year it seems it’s all about tailored shorts. So what’s a girl to do?
Well, according to Madeleine Halston – a personal stylist from Hornchurch – if you focus on the bottoms, your overall style will come out on top. “Summer is all about baring a little bit of flesh and injecting some colour into our wardrobes,” Madeleine tells me.
“However, the British climate can be unpredictable, which is why ¾ length trousers, be them loose or fitted, are set to be big this summer.”
Indeed, harem trousers have already made a comeback on the High Street, and smart shorts, such as the ones seen at Reiss and Next, are a popular alternative.
However, Madeleine is keen to point out that just because trousers are in, it doesn’t necessarily follow that vibrant prints are out.
“People think it’s easier to experiment with colour on dresses and skirts, but that’s not strictly true,” she explains. “There are some great prints available at the moment in the trouser department, and if teamed with a simple t-shirt, they can really add the wow factor to your outfit.” Indeed, this pair seen below right, £50 from ASOS, combine two trends in one by mixing a slouchy finish with Safari prints.
But, if you just can’t tear yourself away from your beloved skirts, you’ll be pleased to learn that even culottes, or ‘skorts’ are making a comeback.
This pair seen below left from Reiss, are perfect for summer, and priced at £110, they’ll serve as a wardrobe investment.
“Culottes aren’t for everyone.” Madeleine laughs. “But they do offer an alternative to skirt-lovers, so I’d recommend buying a heavily printed pair and teaming with a floral top for some serious fashion clashing!”
If only we could solve our self-tanning problems as easily…