Spring fashion: the updated blazer

ABOVE: @ottawastyle’s Alexandra Hunt says that blazers are the fashion chameleon of any woman’s wardrobe. (PHOTO: Winter Lotus Photography)

Traditional workwear has been turned on its head as many of us continue to make the best of the work-from-home life. By now, you will have mastered a smart-looking outfit, but with the changing seasons, an update is needed.

Blazers are the fashion chameleon of any women’s wardrobe. They pair with everything from skirts, summer dresses and jeans. This season, designers have made a slight change to the overall design by removing the lapel. Seen on the runways at Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton, and Michael Kors, the collarless blazer adds instant polish to any work look. Seen in a variety of hues from bright pops of colour to muted tones and often belted at the waist, this subtle update is one you won’t want to ignore.

Signal the turn of the season by opting for a crisp white blazer. Equally as versatile and classic as your go-to black blazer, a white blazer is a wardrobe staple and a key to building a timeless, pulled-together closet.

ABOVE: Michael Kors Runway, Louis Vuiton Runway, Feragam Runway

Meet some of Ottawa’s top fashion influencers who should be on your radar.
They share top trends for summer along with some must-have accessories. 

Dominique Baker

TOP TRENDS: Right now, I am still loving tie-dye for summer! It is bright and fun, and if you can't do the full, head-to-toe tie-dye sweats look, try a tie-dye bikini. Miniskirts and mini-dresses are back with a vengeance too. Time to show off those legs!

MUST-HAVES: Pillow bags are a great way to freshen up your look or elevate your outfit. From the Chanel 19 to Coach's Pillow Tabby Bag, it's a modern and cool take on the handbag.
(PHOTO: Salt ‘n Streets Photography)

Katrina Turnbull

TOP TRENDS: I’m really pleased to see the biker short make an appearance in denim, activewear and loungewear. It’s such a flattering length on all sizes.

MUST-HAVES: This summer I had to get a pair of chunky white sneakers, like the ones I picked up from Trend Savvy. They work for casual summer outfits and the extra heel height works well with maxi dresses as well.

Marie Ernst

TOP TRENDS: I am loving the sweetheart neckline trend right now. I find it so feminine, timeless and flattering. I’m also loving midi dresses, which are a staple for the summer months. Right now, I am gravitating towards light colours, like sage green or pale pink. Those look gorgeous with a tan too!

MUST-HAVES: I tend to keep my outfits simple and don’t accessorize much, but I would say definitely a nice pair of shoes and some lipstick. I loving strappy sandals, clear heels, or even sneakers. They all bring a different vibe to the outfit you are putting together. It’s important to really have fun and play with your style.

For more fashion tips follow Alex on Twitter @ottawastyle