Though your resolution to hit the gym four times a week might not last beyond January, here's a vow you can keep: to shake up your style. If your closet is filled with tried-and-tested ensembles, it's high time you invested in some fresh threads, as inspired by the most wearable trends from the spring runways. Pick up one or two of these ideas and you’re in for a very happy New Year indeed.
2013 New Year's Resolution: Thou Shall Experiment
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Peekaboo
Whether it's a peekaboo cut-out, a midriff-baring shirt, or a sheer top to showcase a lacy bra, this spring is all about the "less is more" school of thought. Of course, this doesn't mean showing off everything your mama gave ya. If you're planning to flash some back, keep the front covered; similarly, an exposed front should warrant your legs being kept under wraps. Still, the beauty of this trend? There’s a peekaboo option for every body shape (and level of confidence) up for grabs.
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Shorts Suits
Fall has been the season of the head-to-toe printed pantsuit (see Prada for one), but spring is bringing with it a decidedly lighter ensemble in the form of shorts suits. We like short shorts, especially when teamed with a structured matching separate that adds a smart, but not too stuffy, air to your outfit.
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Sporting Style
Joe Fresh nailed this trend in its Spring 2013 collection, by offering metallic denims, bright oxfords and, of course, an activewear range. If you want to add a little sporting style to your step, the important thing is not to go overboard with the trend. Only add one athletic item — a backpack, anorak, visor — or risk looking like you've just left the gym (which we know isn't true since you already broke that New Year's resolution, right!).
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Peplum
Love it or hate it, the peplum is here to stay. Its silhouette can look great on straight-figured females, but pear-shapes (hello!) beware and don't go too extreme with the hip ruffles. Peplums can do wonders in cinching in the waist, but more modest flares are available on tops and jackets.
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Clashing Prints
And finally, as The Bay's very own Fashion Director, Suzanne Timmins, relayed at her "What To Wear Now" Showcase, statement prints have become de rigueur and they're not about to disappear anytime soon. Clashing them is the way forward, but remember the key to mixing is to make sure each pattern is a totally different size, i.e. small patterns with larger floral designs. Are you totally picturing the peplum in the last slide with these Topshop tapestry trousers right now?
