WHAT’S CHIC NOW . . . Spring/Summer 2023

by Barbara Barton Sloane

With the days now getting longer and undeniably warmer, we’re finally able to turn our attention to the spring/summer 2023 fashion trends – praise be! And in the immortal words of the great philosopher Barry White, “It may be winter outside, but in my heart it’s spring.” Indeed, it is!

BCBG Max Azria is a brand, an aesthetic and an attitude, inspired by the evolving landscapes of culture, art and design. The brand wants all women to feel beautiful and empowered, no matter what they’re wearing.  BCBG Bon Chic Bon Genre, they explain, is a Parisian expression that means good style, good attitude, and it’s what they stand for – in fashion and in life.  Lofty goal, that. This do-gooder company gives us the perfect number to spark up this season with a periwinkle top and skirt that is at once sleek, sophisticated and very Bon Chic. Where the top ends and skirt begins gives just enough midriff show to make the look a bit naughty but very, very nice!

There was equal parts exciting anticipation and nostalgia in the air at this show – Marc Jacobs had returned with an intimate runway presentation of his spring 2023 collection. Jacobs is a master of showmanship, which prevailed again, down to the tiny details. And while totally Jacobs’ own, the collection also was an ode to one of his fashion heroes: the late Dame Vivienne Westwood, quoting her as saying: “Fashion is life-changing!” A Marc look that I would most certainly call life-changing: his black and white ensemble, the top bold horizontal stripes, the skirt a cute geometric print.  Wear this and attention will be paid, promise!

At Ralph Lauren, the designer showcased his ready-to-wear Spring 2023 collection with models strutting down the catwalk decked out in dozens of new looks. Highlights from this runway experience encompassed some classic nods to Americana, showing Western-inspired styles including cowboy boots and cowboy hats galore, as well as romantic, floral prairie dresses, plenty of suede and leather pieces, and some of the preppy, tailored silhouettes that have been one of the designer’s signatures for years. Can a look get more classic RL than a wonderful pair of beautifully tailored white trousers topped by a short-sleeve navy and white sweater? Hamptons-ready?

 You bet!

At Gabriela Hearst’s show, the runway was lined with members of the Resistance Revival Chorus.  They sang “This Joy,” a gospel song. Joy has been the buzzword of Fashion Week and few designers have failed to mention: “in times like these…” But only Hearst booked this choir, and the singers more than delivered on the song’s promise. It was a feel-great moment, made all the more so by Hearst’s wild and wonderful, hip and happy pants outfit, a funky combination of bold prints in orange, brown, black and white. Joy to the world, indeed!

“If you’ve got something to share you share it! – Founder Mandy Cabot

That’s Dansko’s original business plan and sharing comfort with the world has been the gift that keeps on giving…Their Rowan shoe is comfort personified with styling both alluring and sophisticated; works day/night and anytime in between. You’ll love them! www.dansko.com

What says summer relaxing on a patio overlooking the sea (or overlooking anywhere, really) than a light, fruity, feel good all over wine, si? Castello Del Poggio has unveiled it’s all new Strawberry Kiss Fruit Wine. This product joins its Castello Del Poggio Fruit Blossom Collection featuring Peachy Dreams, Blueberry Bliss, and Honeydew Joy. https://castellodelpoggio.com

Travel is back but the one thing no one looks forward to is packing.  Morph Clothing’s Capsule Dress replaces the need to fill your suitcase.  This innovative dress starts off as a cute beach coverup but can be transformed and worn 60 (count ‘em!) different ways. Made of an environmentally friendly, soft and stretchy bamboo jersey fabric, it comes in staple colors such as black, ivory, and fun colors like gold, pink and emerald, https://capsule.nyc/

Dream Pairs Shoes was founded with a vision to empower women and children everywhere to express themselves freely through fashion without hurting your wallet Their stylish, trend-focused and price conscious designs delivers on its promise to own your own killer look and next-level aesthetic. Their Pointed Toe Slip-on Flat is a comfortable go-to staple for any wardrobe and will easily take you from work to date night in a New York Minute! www.dreampairshoes.com

Suffering eye dryness, fatigue, tearing, eyelid puffiness? CorneaCare has the answer.  Their Self-Heating Warm Compresses give instant warmth and contain hydrating minerals. www.mycorneacare.com

Finally, the company Public Rec is a fast growing brand and there’s a lot of excitement around their comfortable and stylish clothes. The Bottom Line: if you’re a fan of understated essentials, high-quality design, and being comfortable at all times, then you’re a fan of Public Rec. Their requisite All Day Every Day Men’s Pant is something guys can wear comfortably on the couch and confidently on the street. www.publicrec.com

Comfort – day in, day out, and particularly during those upcoming dog days of summer – that’s priority numero uno, right? – and all of these new products deliver that in spades!