FASHION

Marching Right Back into Spring?

By Jasmin, age 17, Indiana
Sweet Designs Featured Writer

Now, I know how unsure my title seems, but trust me, if you knew how the weather was here in Indiana, it would definitely be a giant question! It still just can't seem to make up its mind! Is it full blown winter (still) or slowly easing into spring? I just can't figure it out! Either way, I wish Mother Nature would make up her mind just so us fashion-gurus here could plan out where to go with our clothes! I mean, should we put our long sleeves away now, finally, in March? But just when we think that's a safe move, it breaks down into the 30's* again! I mean, it's just plain confusing, we can all agree. And, of course, the day I think (well, hope) it'll be semi-warm and so I'll break out a dress with no tights, it winds up being 40 degrees raining ice. Can I say "What the heck!?"

* Temps in this article are in Fahrenheit, so some of you will need your calculators!

I know I'm not alone. Most everyone (you too, boys) complain endlessly about the confusing weather never wanting to make up its mind. However, if you are one of those super lucky people who live in a state or country whose weather actually makes sense, all I can say is I'M JEALOUS! Enjoy your predictable weather, as you are oh-so-lucky, my friend. Anyway, enough of my endless complaining about something we unfortunately can't control (because trust me, if we could, I'm almost positive, every single state, country, and continent would be chillin' at a beach in nice constant 80-ish degree, sunny-all-the-time weather!)

Sooo, onto the fashion, which I'm sure you're hoping will not be nearly as confusing as the weather outside. But, no worries, it's actually pretty sweet and simple. Mostly, I'm trying to keep you guys cool and warm at the same time, depending on where you are.

To start off, we'll stick with some fairly neutral items that will keep you at a pretty constant temperature. First off, a classic shoe: canvas! I figure if you live in a normal warm area, you can purchase some pretty inexpensive pairs that are thinner canvas, made for spring and summer. And if you live in a still chilly area, you can purchase a pair of Keds of Vans, as they are somewhat canvas-ish, but more of your feet are covered up than the summery pairs. I know I wear my Vans and Keds pretty often since I'm not really ready for my summer canvas shoes and I don't want to go as far as wearing my boots, as I'd get too hot during the school day (which, I know, is very hard to believe since I swear my school is kept at a constant temp of 50 below!). Obviously, the brand doesn't matter, but canvas shoes that are perfect for in-between weather. I've worn them with a full blown winter outfit, complete with a scarf, hat, gloves, sweater and jeans, yet I've also worn them in the summer with shorts or even a dress or skirt! So definitely don't be afraid of what will go with them; trust me, practically everything will!

Available for $39.99 at www.journeys.com or your local store.

Next is an essential, and hopefully most of you guys have one of these already! It's pretty important that you do, since a lightweight cardigan can really add the just-what-you-need factor to an outfit. Just a simple cardigan will do. Preferably one that is longer, goes to maybe your mid-high thigh, and also one that goes to about the top of your hips. I personally have a black and gray striped long one and also a shorter blue one. Simple colors work best as they are usually added to already colorful, different outfits, and the cardigan just adds a little warmth and hipster look. Plus, it works well for the in-between seasons, since it's not as heavy as a hoodie or jacket, but better than just going bare-armed. Button-up cardigans are usually the cutest! No one says you have to button all 20 of them though. :)

Try simple stripes, and don't be afraid to mix them with a different print on your shirt, dress, or skirt.
Available for $16.99 at www.forever21.com or your local store.

Available for $28.00 at www.oldnavygap.com or your local store.

Lastly, and this is more of a fashion trend than a weather issue, but I have noticed that a certain jeans trend is back - yet again! Flare legs are back, yes, they are! If you are a flare hater, beware, 'cause it looks like they are back to stay! They may not be my absolute favorite trend, but hey, they need some butt-huggin' love too! I find that they do in fact help certain outfits stand out a bit more, and maybe add a bit of a hippie, 70's vibe, which I can dig. :)

We aren't talking full-on bell bottoms though, guys! Keep those in your closets ... Just a nice, simple, clean-cut flare at the bottom looks very nice and a little less casual, which does come in handy for certain occasions, so don't knock 'em before you try them a few different ways! I also love the high-waisted jeans with brass buttons on the waist! But before I get ahead of myself, I'll save that for another time! ;)

Available for $21.80 at www.aeropostale.com or your local store.

Hope you try them out, and good luck to all you guys suffering with me through this terrible, can't-make-up-its-mind weather! Talk to ya guys sooooon! :)

- Jasmin C.K.

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