Spring Fashion 2011

Okay, so despite the part of me that is woodsy farm and nature girl, there is another part of me that loves clothes.  A lot.  I try to strike the balance by getting MOST of my wardrobe from Salvation Army - this works for me because it is cheap and allows me to switch out items fairly regularly, with a few nice solid basic pieces thrown in.  I can also find amazing vintage pieces, and I love clothing that is unique and well-made.

Every season I start to take notice of the things that are striking my fancy - I am not too concerned with mainstream fashion, although I do read some fashion blogs and am generally aware of basic trends... I try to make my decision based on what I like.  I like to come up with a color palate, not just because I am obsessive and like making lists, but because it helps to narrow down choices.  For those of you who have entered the world of thrifting, it's easy to get lost in the immensity of a big store where shirts are $1 apiece.  Having laser focus is important!

Anyway, here is my palate and some top picks for Spring 2011!

Colors: Gray, Olive Green, Cream, Dusty Rose, Slate Blue/Navy

• I have been looking for a great pair of Oxfords!
• Can't live without a gray cardigan.
• I have been very into long pendant necklaces lately, especially simple vintage ones layered with each other.  So much cuter than the huge cluttery necklaces that are so popular nowadays.
• Crochet is back!  I have a white open vest that I am very excited about wearing.
• My navy trenchcoat has been nearly a part of my body this spring.
• I would kill for this Vivienne Westwood plaid dress.  I love the angles, colors, and dimension.  I am mad for plaid.
• I love Target's Long And Lean line of tanks and tees.
• A crisp khaki shirtdress is a great addition to any wardrobe.
• I am in love with lace for spring.  So romantic and crafty.  I also hardly ever leave the house without a scarf.
• I have this exact vintage plaid skirt.  I love the look of a long wooly plaid that hits just below the knee, paired with a modern simple top.
• I know the big sunglasses are a bit of a hipster thing now, but I love them.
• Dusty Rose is a great color that has recently been relegated to 80's bridesmaid dresses.  Lets bring it back!
• I have slowly been accepting blazers into my wardrobe.  They must be long, sleek, and tailored.  I HATED the boxy silhouettes from a few years back.
• Skinny jeans are great for girls with good legs (and maybe not-so-good middles!).  It's not about the size, but the shape of your body.  
• I love simple stretchy skirts for casual warm days.  

There are always a few trends that I can't really jump on as much as I would like to - being a somewhat large woman, I try to avoid anything that isn't tailored or is too clingy in unflattering places.  Sometimes you just have to accept that a lovely gauzy tunic top looks great on a slim girl, but isn't for you.  Honestly, she's probably thinking the same thing about your fab 60's style corset dress.  :)