Not sure what to wear this spring? Here’s an insider’s look at
the latest trends
Spring is here and summer’s just around the corner, which means winter clothes are so five minutes ago and it’s time for the latest fashions. Not sure what’s going to be all the rage this year and what’s going to be fashion suicide? We talked to local boutique owners for the scoop on how to look your hottest this season.
Paulo and Denise Paredes, owners of American Rock & Royalty, a boutique for men and women in Gilroy, on First Street.
Designs are in, especially skulls, angel wings, fleur-de-leis, hearts and stars.
The 80s influence is still strong in this year’s spring and summer fashions, as is the rock-star influence.
Big belt buckles, rhinestones, embroidery and other embellishments are all popular, and prints are prevalent.
Cadet and military-style hats are also popular this year, and cow print has been popping up on wallets, belts and other accessories this year, too.
Cathy Marquez and Michelle Lara, owners, and Caren Spotnitz, buyer, for Unique Boutique, a shop for women on San Pedro Avenue in Morgan Hill
This year’s fashions will be all about bright, vibrant colors, lots of patterns and expect to see hem lines get higher and higher.
One hot look is short shorts with opaque tights worn underneath. The ’80s tunic with leggings look is lingering this year, but be sure to use one of the wide belts that are so popular to cinch in the tunic just under the bust line. It’s more flattering!
Many patterns are going to be 1960s-inspired, as are the crocheted tops and dresses that will be all the rage. Also watch for the skinny jean, which has been popular in SoCal for a while now, to finally come into its own in NorCal.
Deborah Wood, owner of TeeZerz, a shop for guys and girls, and Drapoel, a boutique for women, both on San Benito Street in Hollister.
The top item all women should buy for spring and summer is a pretty dress. Dresses are way more stylish this season than skirts, and empire waists are particularly trendy.
Bermuda shorts, which stop just above the knee, are also a hot item this year, though Capri and crop pants are also still popular. Pair Bermuda shorts with a pair of heels and you’re set.
Tunic tops and embellished clothes are also trendy, and expect to see lots of white and neutral colors in shops. Denim is still going to be dark and gray-washed through the summer.
SIDEBAR 1:
Find fabulous clothes at your local boutiques!
American Rock & Royalty
1230 First Street No. 102 in Gilroy
www.americanrockandroyalty.com
(408) 852-1828
TeeZerz and Drapoel
731 San Benito St. in Hollister
www.drapoel.com
(831) 636-5988
Marie La Beau
314 First Street in Gilroy
(408) 848-6140
Unique Boutique
94 San Pedro Ave. in Morgan Hill
www.uniquemh.com
(408) 782-2059
Blush Boutique
17490 Monterey St. in the Morgan Hill Downtown Mall
www.blush-boutique.com
(408) 776-8200
Michelina’s House of Haute Style
17511 Monterey Rd. in Morgan Hill
(408) 778-1844
Karma Couture Boutique
263 Vineyard Town Center in Morgan Hill
www.myspace.com/karmacoutureboutique
(408) 778-7900
