Your Spring Fashion Guide by stylist Paul Versace

Written by fashion stylist Paul Versace @styledbybloom_

This season, we partnered with one of Australia's most sought-after fashion stylists, Paul Versace, aptly known as 'Styled by Bloom'. Paul best known for his work on a range of campaigns and celebrity styling throughout Australia and internationally. With his unique social media aesthetic, growing digital presence and diverse mix of celebrity clientele, Paul has made a lasting impact within the fashion industry. Read on for Paul's guide on Spring fashion trends.

Spring is one of my favourite seasons to style as we come out of the colder months and into some warm weather. This upcoming season promises an array of fashion trends that cater to every taste.

The Preppy Trend

The preppy trend is back and here to stay. I like to think back to my Gossip Girl days where I would obsess over what either Blake Lively’s character Serena or Leighton Meester’s Blair Waldorf would wear to school. This trend is directly tied to Miu Miu’s string of runways mixing in separates and layering to give that chic preppy aesthetic, featuring models playing dress-up in their mothers’ ultra preppy clothes.

Think full skirts, button-down shirts, leather loafers, sharp blazers, tanks, and v-neck sweaters in colour palettes of navy, khaki, burgundy, and grey. For me the key to this trend is simple - a blazer over a collared shirt paired with a relaxed pair of jeans or a skirt but having a play with accessories such as earrings, a belt or an oversized bag to elevate the look.

The Sheer Conversation Starter

Sheer blouses, dresses and skirts add a point of difference to any outfit or as I like to call it a conversation starter. Layer translucent pieces for a multi-dimensional look that’s both romantic and modern.  Slips & overlays are becoming a go-to when styling my clients this spring and celebrities including Rihanna, Kendall Jenner, and Beyoncé have all played a role in the trend’s recent resurgence.

Translucent garments and sheer dresses that draw focus to undergarments, while adding touches of colour or texture whether it be with lace or a high waisted bloomer will be key this season, and was also one of the biggest trends seen at Australian Fashion Week.  I like to think back to Carla Zampatti’s runway show in Sydney which was done so well and effortlessly. I would also recommend adding bodysuits, bralettes, and high-waisted briefs to your wardrobe.

90's Denim

With spring in the air, this means it's time to lose those bulky layers in favour of lighter, more relaxed pieces - this is where denim comes in. For me, finding a pair of denim that you feel great in is a wardrobe staple this season. Looking in the mirror and loving how you look in denim is key. Mi and low-rise styles are in. I’m a 90’s baby, so I always love mixing denim and styling looks in double denim such as a jacket with a pair of mid-rise jeans. Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries a little and even mix two different types of denim in a look.

Mini Mayhem

Whether it be with bold prints and vibrant colors or kept simple and understated, the mini dress  as a wardrobe staple is a must this season. The dresses and skirts are not only mini, they all share a similar ’60s silhouette reminiscent of the 1967 classic Valley of the Dolls.

Clean lines and sharp tailoring is what I always try to use as a guide when looking for the perfect mini dress. Focusing on the length of the dress on your body and how tailored it is around your bottom half is important. Pair a cute mini with a pair of loafers or knee high boots to make for a cool spring outfit.

Trends in Bloom

This season’s key elements, and those which have become one of my go-to styling tips is a splash of red, whether it be in the accessories or clothing. Another would be adding a crisp white shirt to your wardrobe to layer.  Ballerina flats and Mary-Janes are going nowhere. Find a ballerina flat that works for you and that you feel good in. An embellished ballet flat can elevate a look whilst a simple staple black flat to wear with your relaxed denim and tank is also a great staple.

Floral Fever

Spring wouldn’t be complete without the seasonal favourite - florals. This season, florals take on a bolder, more graphic edge. From oversized flowers to abstract floral prints, make a statement with vibrant floral patterns. I love mixing different patterns together. Pairing two completely different florals might seem a little scary but if done right give you that point of difference or chic element to your look.

Business Casual

The suiting business casual trend that we saw a lot this season on the runway will be a key player this spring. For corporates, you can keep things office appropriate with a demure colour palette and sophisticated textures. One thing I get asked quite often is how do I go from my office to drinks with the girls on a Friday night? My recommendation is to mix accessories or wear the blazer you had on during the day but change into a mini dress and add a pair of burgundy point heels. Switching up your jewellery from a simple earring to a chunky drop earring and matching gold cuff bangles can completely elevate and change a look. 

Butter Hued Beauty

Lastly, one of my favourite trends this season is butter beauty. Soft, delicate and smooth, this butter-hued trend is definitely making its way into my wardrobe this season. It’s the perfect mellow dose of sunshine to incorporate into your spring mood board. It creates the effect of a perfectly warm glow. For me, I tend to love to style colour on colour, on colour - from the accessories, to the outfit to the shoes. When done right, styling a look entirely in one colour can be a real showstopper.