STYLE

FASHION FORWARD

That damn gopher might have slid back into his burrow with his ill wishes of an extended winter, but retailers have been in full swing toward spring for months. Runways, conventions, and exhibitions have been strutting spring style since before the holidays, and although some local shelves might still be winterized, merchants have their eyes turned towards the trends of warmer days.

"Style in Denver tends to be weather related," said Corey Kemp, owner of The Bridge at 970 Broadway. "I love the thin silks in mock necks right now; my sandals will come out on the floor in late April." Amber Feltman-- owner of Eve at 1475 Larimer-- said, "We have spring in now, and will get much more in over the next several months."

Material, function, and features are the tools of choice for designers and retailers alike to move from last year's loose urban to this year's polished technical look. Fabrics will continue to feel and look softer, with a consumer-driven focus on garment management and maintenance.

"I am seeing a lot of soft knits for spring," Kemp said, "and also a lot of silks and cottons blended with micro fiber for easier care."

Fashion takes a softer step this season. Women's cuts will transform into feminine and flowing, with men's style echoing in a sleeker and smoother fit. The lines are clean and more attention has turned to shape and detail.

"I think silk dresses with simple spaghetti straps will be popular for spring and summer," Feltman said, "as well as off the shoulder tops and bustiers."

The fall trend of 'something new with something old' promises to carry on throughout the new season. This time, it's anything goes, with flashbacks to preppy, sporty, and the day of the disco diva. The mix and match decades will deliver more dreamy rock star garb and glitz inspired glamorous nights.

"The '70s and '80s look is doing really well for us," Feltman said. "Things like Farrah Fawcett jump suits, cigarette pants, and colorful strappy shoes."

Kemp agreed: "Spring will continue to follow '70s style and a glam look, with funky collars and sleek zippered necks."

Spring is the season when color blossoms in fashion. Soft pinks, light lavenders, and gosling yellows share the trend wave with the braver shades of red, white, and blue. The monochromatic grays of winter behind us, this season will burst out of store fronts in hues of baby brights and bold brilliance.

"Color, color, color," Kemp said. "I love pastels in pink and orange-- orange is going to be huge this year, especially for men."

"I see geometric designs, and also a lot of soft color," agreed Feltman. "All color stories-- from nautical to the basic of black and whites."

So, dust away those winter blues, and kick Punxsutawney in his furry little butt, because spring is in full bloom. Mother Nature just does-n't know it yet. --Kity Ironton

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