Fashion Junkie

Spring Fling

Given that most of us don’t have the luxury of time on our side, I thought I’d do you all a favor and highlight some of the standout spring ’13 pieces I recently spotted at some of my favorite NYC stomping grounds.

Part One: Aritzia

I keep my wardrobe fresh and fabulous thanks to regular visits at this Canadian-based shopping shrine. While somewhat new to the New York retail scene, Aritzia has been my go-to spot for innovative, on-trend and affordable staples for the past two decades (yup… I’m that old.) Most of their private label brands (T. Babaton and Wilfred are my favorites) are available in size XXS and 00 – a godsend if you happen to have a petite frame like me and want to avoid time consuming trips to the tailor. Thanks to weekly sojourns at the SoHo location (they also have a massive Fifth Avenue location), the friendly staff know me by name and treat me like royalty (hello, Tina!). Plus, the sales people aren’t pushy and happen to be honest – a rarity in retail. Without further adieu, my current house label favorites:

In terms of value, fit and quality, these Wilfred Free faux leather leggings (a.k.a. Rebelle Pants) are hands down the best I’ve seen on the market. I own three pairs (black, burgundy and grey) and get complements every time I wear them. The ash ones below are stunning but looked beyond abysmal with my muscular thighs (the staff agreed), so make sure to choose accordingly. Better snag yours before they vanish from the shelves. Also available in brown, army green and yellow neon for only $135.

I’m a huge fan of the graphic, yet impractical black and white color-blocking trend. This Wilfred Colonne dress is a perfect example. It’s slimming, versatile, ultra modern and sleek. The one downside: the inevitable spike in my weekly dry cleaning bills.

Mint may be having its moment, but I say go wild and inject your wardrobe with splashes of bold color. Case in point: this lightweight, body-hugging honeycomb knit, which screams Fiorucci – a cult Italian brand that had its heyday back in the ’80’s.  The acid yellow shade brightens up my pasty white skin (not to mention dark circles) and perfectly compliments the cropped white jeans I just bought.

I’ve been foolishly lusting after a white leather jacket for quite sometime. But…given the dreaded lipstick stains, ring-around-the-collar and subway grime that are likely to appear on day one, I decided to smarten up and invest in something a bit more practical. My solution: this sophisticated moto-inspired jacket, made from a supple Japanese crepe de chine fabric that elegantly drapes the body in all the right places. Note the sheer back, which has an elasticated hem for a gathered, voluminous look. At only $195, maybe I won’t be so fearful of those inevitable dirt stains. Yeah, right.

Another reason to get thy arse to the gym: this lace bodycon dress. This luxe crochet fabric screams romance and makes me want to stroll the streets of Paris with my sweetie. Simple, feminine and elegant, though I’d sport mine with a pair of silver metallic heels for maximum impact. Stay tuned for part deux of Spring Fling tomorrow. ‘Til then, happy shopping!