I'm Adding More Color to My Spring Wardrobe Thanks to Vintage Fashion
How archival finds inspired me to say goodbye to neutrals, at least for the season.
Minimalism is having a moment, but I would like to ask: Why can’t color be considered chic? As spring comes into full bloom, I wonder how I can push my personal style beyond the constraints of a limited shade range. Sure, I feel more comfortable in denim and standard shades of black, white, and cream, but I’m ready for playful expressions of color—something that feels a bit unknown in my current outfit preferences. It turns out that vintage fashion was the key to expanding my color palette.
During my last trip to New York City, I dropped by Into Archive, one of the city's best vintage stores. From John Gallino to Yohji Yamamoto, this space, which is also shoppable online, led me down a color story that initially caught me off guard. After an afternoon of trying on luxurious vintage pieces in what felt like a real-life version of Carrie Bradshaw’s closet, I found a fresh vision for my spring fashion inspiration.
Balance Hard and Soft
Stella McCartney’s tenure at Chloé is one of my biggest sources of style inspiration. I feel endlessly cool dressing feminine with a rock ‘n roll twist. So, pulling this baby pink set was a total pinch-me moment. As I shift my closet for the warmer weather months, I want to mix soft tones and fabrics with harsher colors. I love the romance of the satin pink, with the contrast of black accessories. The lace detailing of these Sergio Rosso boots adds even more drama.
Mix and Match Prints
Spring is the season to not take yourself too seriously. The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, and there is a newfound zest for life that was dormant during winter. With this attitude, I suggest making mismatched prints a part of your spring wardrobe—two conflicting patterns that, in theory, don’t initially work together but, at a glance, can be something more intriguing. This floral Armani coat and Prada gingham heels are the perfect example. This experimentation with shades embodies the easygoing feeling that spring presents.
Go Big or Go Home
Roberto Cavalli is one of fashion’s boldest designers. The Italian-American in me has a soft spot for his exotic prints and flashy pops of color. Add some splashes of gold, and I feel like a star. This whole look feels like it's pulled from the early aughts—a time when sexy, bold, feminine style was the standard. It’s the ultimate girls' night outfit for somewhere on Sunset Boulevard or on the streets of SoHo.
