Friends,

The month of April brings new beginnings.  It can almost seem surreal the way the sun highlights the colors that have bloomed all around…  In these moments, I’m often reminded of a vintage TV commercial where everything in sight magically transforms into candy!

And you may be sharing these visions when you visit your local boutique.  Perhaps to celebrate spring and Easter, many designers look to pastel colors for this season.  I appreciate a style that juxtaposes these lighter hues with simpler or more tailored designs which temper the look from becoming overly precious.  I prefer my desserts to be sweet, not my clothing…

  candy coated BCBG Ellie dress

This BCBG shift dress in a lemon-y shade pairs well with bold angular jewelry and a metallic shoe.  For the daytime, coordinate this with a navy jacket for a softer color combination versus black (which can be too severe).

candy coated Valentino pastel shoe

Why not try a punk inspired shoe in a pastel?  I love Valentino‘s use of a variety of muted colors decorated with studding.  It’s simultaneously soft and dangerous looking!  This is the kind of statement making accessory that you throw on with an ultra casual item, like boyfriend jeans, and still look pulled together.<

candy coated T Tahari trench

And don’t forget the outerwear that chicly covers you during any April showers: the classic trench coat.  Reach for this version when you want to punctuate your monochromatic outfit with a pop of mint color.  I’d love seeing this T Tahari piece worn with brown or white.

What’s your favorite pastel shade of the moment?