I am SO excited about today’s post you guys (I know I say that a lot << and I know I’ve probably said THAT a lot), but seriously, this is going to be such a fun one!! A guest post from an amazing #bosslady at Madewell right here in Madison! Meet Kari W. — Kari is the Merchant for the Madewell store in Madison (the only Madewell in Wisconsin as of right now) + this lady has a TON of wisdom when it comes to fashion, trends, + how to practically include the latest + greatest into your everyday wardrobe! I can also speak from firsthand experience that this girl has her own serious personal style! I am constantly inspired by her tasteful + classic looks — including her famous (in my book!) black leather jacket + her well-worn, beautiful, brown leather oxfords. Additionally, she has amazing (mile-long) legs that make any pair of jeans look unbelievable! (Can you tell I just love her!?)!

Today, Kari is going to be sharing with us a couple of the season’s latest trends — what to look for, what are some essential pieces, + how to incorporate them into your wardrobe!! SO FUN!! I’m going to stop rambling + let her take it from here …

Kari, what are the things we should be noticing this spring + summer?

Thank you so much, Maison! Runway trends were totally crazy for SS16 – multiple decades were showcased, colors and tactile elements reached beyond what we’ve seen in a long time, and there was no rhyme or reason to silhouettes.  I sifted through all of them and I came up with a very selective list of my favorite trends that I feel are incredibly easy and effortless to pull off – because getting dressed in the morning shouldn’t be a chore!

1. Slip Dresses

Slip dresses are the “It” dress for spring/summer. From slinky to flowy, dainty to downright sexy, they are definitely an item to incorporate into your wardrobe.

One of my favorite ways to wear this seasons slip dress is to layer it over a soft white crew-neck tee. Complete the look with a pair of ankle boots – flat or heeled – and simple jewelry. For a more elevated look – add a pair of strappy, block heel sandals and a great leather jacket! This outfit will easily take you from daytime market hauls to dinner and drinks at that popular patio spot. The best part? It’ll only take you like 5 seconds to put together and you’ll look So.Dang.Cool.

To keep your look from veering too close to the bedroom, opt for a cami style top with adjustable straps and a straight neckline or a slight V-neck. Also, stick to solid colors and shorter lengths, and skip the lacey options if you want to get a lot of wear out of this trend. 

Trends via here, here, here

2. Cropped Flares/Raw and Let-Down Hems

This is a 2 in 1 trend – but you could definitely choose one or the other if you’re not on board with the combo! Either way, you’ll still be rocking the latest denim “Do”!

Channel your inner 70’s goddess and go with a high waisted style – keep the length right above the ankle and pair with practically any top you have in your closet: especially an easy white tee. You should definitely try tucking your blouse/tee in all the way to show off that waistline! (High waisted jeans sit at the smallest part of your waist – think of them as the personal trainer of denim styles.) Don’t forget; a great wooden wedge or a white sneaker will do for a casual look and for a more elevated approach, classic black pumps are the way to go. When temps start to drop don’t think you have to put these crops away! Pair them with ankle boots (be sure the bottom of the jean hits at or just below the top of your boot), a comfy knit or fine gauge turtleneck, and a classic trench. So chic! 

Trends via here, here, here

3. Ruffles

This season, romantic and girly frills were all over the runways; and there was no holding back on the quantity of fluffiness! If you’re not in the market for an all out ruffled gown, other than your wedding dress (!), there are more subtle ways you can indulge in this revival of the ruffle!

This trend can swing towards child-like super fast – the key is to seek out constructed ruffles as opposed to tutu style poufs. Fabrics like denim, and weighty cottons lend their strength to hold up larger flouncy details. Silk and synthetic blends allow for more drape, and a sexy frill. Stores will be stocked with tops showing full sleeves and feminine shoulder details, as well as ruffle hemmed skirts and dresses.

If you decide to try out ruffles this season, be sure to keep it to one piece paired back to a simple top or bottom and lay low on statement jewelry and bedazzled anything. Also, if you’re feeling a bit too fancy, toughen up your look with a pair of sneakers or a leather jacket.

Trend via here, here, here

There are so many more trends for this season, but these 3 are super easy to pull off and you may even have a few pieces in your existing wardrobe! A really great rule of thumb is to keep it simple and if you’re not 100% comfortable going all out with trendy pieces then just sprinkle a few of them into your closet. Happy shopping! : )