Hot hues

Photo: Contributed

Blush top from Bia Boro, rainbow shorts from Boheme Collective, yellow stripes from Morgane, and red floral dress from Cranberry Junction.

As the thermometer rises, it’s time for one of my favourite activities —strolling through the local boutiques to suss out spring and summer fashion trends.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve stopped in at several independently-owned and-operated style stores in my hood:

• The Wardrobe
• Cranberry Junction, and Boheme Collective in the South Pandosy
• Morgane and Bia Boro downtown.

Each boutique has its own signature look and carries unique brands. However, there are definitely some trends I’m seeing everywhere this season.

By far the most popular colours are in the yellow spectrum. This sunny hue is often ignored, but not this year. You cannot escape mustard, coral and russet colours for shorts, dresses, and tops.

Blush and pale pink have been popular for a few years and show no signs of slowing down. This spring, pink is being treated as the new neutral for footwear and handbags.

Typically not seen for spring, bright red is also prevalent in this season’s palette, especially paired with denim or toned down as part of a pattern.

Speaking of patterns, they are bold and they are on everything. 

By far, stripes are the biggest trend. I’ve seen them thick and thin, horizontal and vertical, and even mixed. But the most popular pieces feature bright wide stripes alternating with white.

A unique take on stripes gaining momentum is rainbow. I’ve seen several pairs of shorts with vertical striping in multiple hues and t-shirts with rainbow icons.

Rings, necklaces, and bracelets featuring ROYGBIV gemstones are also available in costume and fine jewelry.

Of course, the quintessential spring pattern is floral and it continues to be popular this year. Not wallflower versions, though, but loud joyous blooms.

Some even harken back to 1970s upholstery. 

Polka dots are also proving popular for 2019. And not to be left out, even tie-dye is making a comeback.

So what shapes do these bright colours and bold prints take?

One-piece dressing is the major trend, with wide-leg jumpsuits and short rompers being offered in casual and dressy incarnations.

If you prefer two pieces, high-waist tailored shorts paired with loose flowy blouses or cropped tops will be your go-tos. 

These looks, available now at your favourite local boutiques, will add fashion-forward fun to your wardrobe this season. 

However, remember that by their very definition, trends are not meant to have staying power. So be wise with choosing only those pieces that you love and will get mileage from. 

For me, that piece this spring is a yellow- and white-striped blouse with a back cutout from Morgane. 

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.