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The Trend: Watercolor-inspired florals
Why it's hot: While multiple appearances at New York Fashion Week and a colorful spread in Vogue don't necessarily a wearable trend make, we have a feeling bright, abstract florals are going to strike it big this spring. After a severe and gray winter, nothing seems as naturally fashionable as bold splashes of color and the ultimate harbingers of fair weather—beautiful blooms.
What to look for: Forget the hippy dippy daisies and stuffy, church-perfect prints. This season's florals are more abstract and painterly. Overly conceived patterns are out in favor of a random smattering of Monet-style blossoms in a vivid spectrum borrowed from the masters of watercolor. Get the look with Roberto Cavalli's silk stretch dress ($1,300) boasting vibrant purple blooms on a fresh white background, or snag Stella McCartney's girly floral slip dress ($1,095), a cacophony of lilac, butter yellow, and periwinkle petals.
Jill Stuart's Robin dress ($540) puts a raspberry-hued spin on traditional tea roses, and Lacey Parker's candy-colored chiffon dress ($285) is just short and swingy enough to get you in the spring spirit. Also, keep an eye out for Ralph Lauren gowns popping with pretty peonies and poppies: they were all over his 2008 collection and will start sprouting in stores soon.
