Spark

After several seasons at the height of the ‘skinny’ silhouette’s popularity, we are celebrating the return to one that’s a little more relaxed - especially in the peak of summer. Not that we don’t love our slim cuts - after all, it seems like anything goes these days - but a more relaxed approach to dressing is definitely welcome. The cropped flowy pant is kind of like the capri pant’s more elegant big sister. Slightly more polished, it really does transition from suited up at the office to laid back on the weekend.

In this brand new column, we’re taking the latest items trending on the shelves and in the windows of our shops here at the Centre and showing you how to make them work. Our stylist, Allana Schmidt of F2 Styling and Events, explains what defines a ‘key piece’: “It’s the versatility factor that makes this a key piece! It’s one of the easiest articles of clothing to be dressed up or down, depending on your mood.” Because if you can’t work a new piece into your wardrobe several different ways, why bother?

Here’s a look at how we’ll be wearing the trend this season:

Tuesday afternoon @ 2:30pm for a client meeting: A little dressed up, a little dressed down – these pants are versatile enough to be worn in many offices this summer with a little help from some chic add-ons (check back for more on cool office dressing next week!).  A more structured jacket balances out the softness of the pants, while a polished bag and sharp statement sandals elevate it to office-worthy status.

Saturday morning @11:00am for a trip to the St. Norbert’s Farmers Market: What could be more relaxing than wandering through the outdoor stalls of fresh fruits and veggies, bright blooms and homemade goodies? In a more casual army green, the same pants kick back for the weekend with a comfy shapeless tee, easy slides and earthy wooden bangles. Plus, as the August morning chill slides into afternoon heat, you’ll be dressed for both. “Flowy pants were made for hot climates,” says Schmidt. “So they’re a natural selection for summer time!”

Your turn – what do you think of these looks? Will you be wearing soft and flowy pants this season?

Visit these St. Vital Centre retailers to shop the looks:
Look #1 (office):
Black and white tank: Dynamite, $16.90
Black flowy pants: American Eagle Outfitters, $34.95
Beige and black jacket: RW&CO, $119
Black and white wedges: Aldo, $90
Silver stretch bracelet: Le Chateau, $15
Aztec earrings: Le Chateau, $15
Tom and Eva snakeskin purse: Boes, $130

Look #2 (weekend):
Black and white top: Dynamite, $26.90
Green flowy pants: American Eagle Outfitters, $34.95
Black cork slides: Aldo, $65
Wood bracelets: Boes, $3.99 each
Gold circle earrings: Boes, $25 (comes in a set with a necklace, not shown)
Gold double rings with chain: Le Chateau, $9.95
Prismatic tortoiseshell sunglasses: Pearle Vision, $129.95
Tan, coral and black purse: Aldo, $55

*Product availability may vary; please check stores for details.