*5 minute read - sit back with a cuppa and enjoy*
As the fresh new buds appear on the trees and the days begin to lengthen, our thoughts turn to spring and the promise of summer! The new, hand curated collection of clothing, shoes and accessories is beginning to emerge in the shop too. While some perennial, classic looks come up every year, there’s also the promise of some new blooms in the season ahead.
The collections from many of our brands start with gentle hues as we emerge from winter, giving way to the brighter more energetic colours in the high summer. Light weight cotton knits and ¾ sleeves see us through the spring which can still be cold and breezy, making that extra layer very welcome. These give way to light cotton poplins and loose swaying viscose. We are really happy to see more and more sustainably produced fabric in this collection, as the brands respond to the growing need for responsible production in the fashion industry. As a result, many of the clothes are made using organic cotton, Tencel viscose made from responsibly sourced wood pulp and natural fibres such as linen and hemp.
The early spring palette this year takes us out of winter into the promise of lighter evenings and emerging shoots. Starting with darker bases with highlights of bright colours, we’re seeing jumpsuits begin to take over from dungarees. Animal print has always been popular but this is being reimagined with brighter colourways. Substantial cardigans and heavier jerseys see us through these early months, these colours give way to aqua greens and khakis, with neutral taupe and ecru. The ever faithful navy bases are lifted with little pops of pale blues and pinks.
(Left to right - Charlie Jumpsuit from Sugarhill Brighton, Ginny Blouse from Weird Fish, Riven Tunic from Adini, Elsie Dress from Brakeburn, Yael Top from Base Level)
Feminine details continue to be a feature this year, with small frilled edging on collars and ruching on the sleeves. Whilst some of us will still be wearing our winter boots, the footwear begins to brighten. Chunky, platform soles and wedges can be found on our trainers and closed toe sandals.
(Left to right - Brighton Trainer from Art Metropolitan, Milton Ruffle Jacket from Brakeburn, Boston Clog from Birkenstock)
Late spring usually brings warmer days and for some the promise of early holidays. The colours become more vibrant; lime, lavender and classic black and white. These pieces are easily layered and begin to evoke memories of oceans afar. Feminine embroidery is becoming a feature for many of the designers as they evoke a boho or folk style in the clothing. This is also evident in the tassel fastening around the collar or the native American inspired patterns.
(Left to right - Willow Shirt from Lily & Me, Lindsy Top from Adini, Haydee Shirred Top from Sugarhill Brighton, Atica vest from Weird Fish, Mandy Skirt Brakeburn).
The Americas have been a big influence on this spring’s style as we see colours, fabrics and patterns that are reminiscent of the wide prairies, desert sunsets and unending blue skies. Animal print footwear is a classic in the warmer months and we find it from sandals to moccasins.
(Left to right - Ikat Dress from Nomads, Nauticals from Jo and Joe, Grey and White Checked Tunic from Nomads, Animal Print Sandals from Blowfish Malibu, Erica Pin Stripe Dress from Brakeburn)
Finally we approach the high summer collection that echoes the brightness of the long summer days and reflects the high energy of the season. Bright cobalt, summer greens and sunshine inspired oranges and reds feature in this collection. Whilst the dresses are still quite long, they are interspersed with a few shorter styles and longer, open shirt dresses.
(Left to right - Thea Dress from Adini, Sunrise Vest from Mudd & Water, Sandecotes Knit Cardigan from Kite, Tallahassee Dress from Weird Fish, Wildflower Meadow Wrap dress from Brakeburn).
The trousers are either loose, wide leg and made from soft, floaty fabrics, some with statement prints; or they are cropped bubble trousers, remaining stylish but comfortable. As we hunt out our nail polish, the sandals are bright and colourful with coloured metallics making a particular appearance this season.
(Left to right - Aqua Straight Leg Trousers from Nomads, Strappy Sandals in Pastels from Rieker, Drift Trousers from Lily & Me, Totnes Sandals from Heavenly Feet, Nomads Bubble Trousers in Denim)
Whatever the weather in the months ahead, with colourful statement pieces and neutral layering basics, we can look with anticipation to the buds of spring opening into the flowers of summer. We hope to see you in store or online soon!