Spring trends
By Paula Rath
Advertiser Staff Writer
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Spring is the most highly anticipated fashion season in Hawaii because many of the clothes on and off the runways can actually work in our climate, as opposed to fall's wool, leather and fur.
Spring 2010 is shaping up to be an especially exciting fashion season, with bold color, shapely silhouettes and statement accessories leading the way.
More good news: Designers seem to be sensitive to the economy and what it's doing to our shopping libidos, so you may be surprised by lowered prices in unexpected places.
Here are the spring trends four of our Fashion Forum members embraced to take a trip through the looking glass, with a nod to Alice in Wonderland and the highly anticipated spring Tim Burton/Johnny Depp movie.
AUDREY HOO
Profession: Behavior specialist
Neighborhood: Kahala
Trend: Schoolgirl chic
Why: "It's a playful, fun look. I never went to private school so I didn't have a chance to get tired of plaid."
What it cost: The dress: $189 from BCBG MaxAzria.
Accessorized with: Necklace from Maxi Waikiki, tights from Wolford, shoes from Max Studio and ring custom made by Alex Okada.
How else will you wear it: With bobby socks and loafers or ballet flats — and without pigtails.
What's a no-no with this trend: "Don't go too juvenile; keep it edgy ... if you're an adult, that is."
SIERRA DEW
Profession: Fashion and jewelry designer
Neighborhood: Kane'ohe
Trend: Alice in Wonderland
Inspired by: The upcoming movie. She is also inspired by the modern housewife who is into gardening, sewing and DIY.
What it cost: The dress: $45 and apron: $20, from Catherine's Closet.
Accessorized with: Betsey Johnson butterfly pumps, ring of her own design, necklace fashioned from an old piece of tile.
Why: "I love Scandinavian textiles and contemporary American folk blended together. It's a cultural mix that's happening now."
AMANDA STEVENS
Profession: Freelance writer, owner of Dream On Consulting
Neighborhood: Kaimuki
Trend: Turquoise
Why: "I like what it represents: hope, renewal, a fresh start to the year."
Who inspired the look: Katie Holmes
What a key piece cost: Silk blouse by Banana Republic, purchased at Pzazz Consignment ($22).
Accessorized with: Macy's I.N.C. pants, Nine West boots, bracelet and earrings by Art on a Wing (her mom's jewelry line) and a jacket she found in New York.
How else will you wear it: "With jeans for biz casual."
Style note: "I think it is important to convey the right professional image when doing business while keeping my look updated and remaining true to my eclectic personal style. I like to make unexpected choices, mixing bright colors and edgy prints with the classic business staple, a black pantsuit."
KYLE KAGAMIDA
Profession: Sales associate, Michael Kors
Neighborhood: Pearl City
Trend: Sunglasses
Why: "Accessories can make or break an outfit, and choosing the right pair of sunglasses can really update a look."
Why aviators? "Those of us with Asian faces sometimes shy away from aviators, but they can work with adjustable nose pieces and smaller lenses."
Inspired by: Brad Pitt
What they cost: $90 to $235. On Kyle: Aviators by Mosley Tribes (Sunglass Icon). On his bag: left to right: The first four are from Michael Kors, then Oakleys (Sunglass Icon) and Wayfarers (Sunglass Hut).
What's a no-no: "It bugs me when people wear sunglasses indoors. If you're not a celebrity, take 'em off."