Excitement was palpable as CAbi’s design team poured over magazine tear sheets, vintage photos and artwork, buttons, baubles, and even spools of thread, and snippets of fabric flew through the air and inspiration flourished. Defining the trends is step one. Then fast-forward a year and here we are with a beautiful new CAbi Collection! Last week we took you through the creative minds of CAbi’s Design Team to see how the Spring ’12 Collection evolved, and this week the journey continues as we look at the top trends of the season. It’s no surprise that these trends are echoed everywhere from shoes and accessories, to home décor!
Flower Power
Fresh floral prints are blooming! From the abstract design of the Petal Tank, to the Asian-inspired Poetry Tunic, fireworks of fun happy colors of the In Case Blouse, and a beautiful bouquet in the Printed Willow Dress, flowers are blossoming throughout the Spring Collection. But Flower Power isn’t all about the literal. It’s also a nod to that “power to the people” hip hippie chick, the nouveau boho, rocking maxi skirts, and flowy silhouettes reminiscent of insouciant 70′s style.
Mellow Yellow
This happy hue isn’t just for highlighters anymore! It’s time to redefine “neutral” because yellow is having a shining moment in the sun and pairs perfectly with so many prints and colors this spring. Whether you’re ready to shout “hello-yellow” with the limon Cropped Bree Jean or start with a subtle whisper of the mellow yellow like the Button Back Tank, now is definitely the time to add a little sunshine flare into your closet.
Maxed Out
Picture those vintage photos of Michelle Phillips from the Mamas and the Pappas or François Hardy, a take-your-breath-away French folk singer. With a roll of their sleeve or a tip of their hat, these style icons stopped us in our track! Their carefree elegance demanded attention even when they were chilled out to the max. This is one of those looks really rooted in the 70′s – but in the best possible way. It’s all about maxi skirts and dresses that are super comfy and understated, while totally chic and stylishly put together at the same time.
Ships Ahoy
Captain hat and deck shoes optional – this is a tongue in cheek nod to nautical. Something about spring brings out a playful sailor style of navy and white, and prints and stripes mixed with pops of color. This all-American girl-next-door style is a welcome breath of fresh (ocean) air after a long winter!
Pattern Maker
Is it a skin print or is it a floral? It’s undefined and that’s the beauty of it! Subtle, textured patterns are taking over the print world this spring and they can almost be worn as neutrals when paired with other prints or pops of color. Have fun mixing prints to create a style that is uniquely yours.
Sole Mates
A little shoe goes a long way! With these three styles you’ll be set to saunter through anything that comes your way this spring and summer.
How to Wear: The Cropped Bree
Colored denim is everywhere this season, so say hello yellow and let this happy hue brighten your day! This tried and true slim jean looks stunning with almost anything as it fits and flatters your silhouette. Feeling a little color shy? Consider this your new neutral! It instantly adds playful edge or touch of whimsy to an otherwise basic ensemble. Get ready to see the world through canary colored glasses, and trust us, this little ray of sunshine just made getting dressed a lot more fun!
