Spring/Summer 2025

I’m a big reader (like two books a week big) and one recent book really resonated with me called Tilda is Visible, by Jane Tara. In the story, a “woman of a certain age” literally starts to become invisible as a metaphor for how she feels in her life. And when she stops trying to disappear in the background, to stop apologizing for aging, changing, or just even wanting more, her transformation begins. Whether you can personally relate or not, I loved the message this book left me with. In a world that often nudges us to shrink, conform, or blend in, the power of embracing change and being your full self as we navigate different seasons of life is inspiring and something I try to incorporate with my clients.  

Whether it’s going gray, switching careers, redefining relationships or just trying a new fashion trend you might not have considered, living boldly with change is hard! These steps – be it slight or major – take some time and care to adjust to, but being your authentic self should help bring about the most confident, unapologetic and beautiful version of you you can be.  

So as we embark onto a new Spring, a time of beginning, may you choose your own version of beautiful! And here are some new trends to maybe help with that.

BoHo Chic is back in a big way. A little more streamlined and sheer than in prior years, but still with lots of the great BoHo details like embroidery, floral prints, eyelets and lace. I tend to avoid the more elaborate ruffles. Pair tops and dresses with a light-colored suede jacket for a fun look, and feel free to add details that are more modern in bottoms, sandals or other footwear, scarves or belts to have it feel more updated.

Preppy Nautical. Think Coco Chanel’s original seaside look, stripes everywhere, with an emphasis on navy and white tops and dresses, navy or ivory bottoms, boat shoes and silk pattern scarves tied around the neck to finish this look beautifully. Olive green is another more subtle option if navy is not your favorite. You’ll be ready for the bright skies of summer in no time!

Earth tones are in, especially in suede. Tan, beige, nude and taupe shades are textural, timeless and surprisingly versatile. Don’t go too orange or yellow in tone – keep it cooler. This trend is showing up in items like retro sneakers, jackets and belts, plus handbags and crossbody bags. You might consider a tan suede shoe to pair with both BoHo and feminine pastel looks – they do go great together! (And be sure to use a water repellent treatment on suede to protect your investment).  

Softer Power Suits (a fascinating oxymoron).This look is relaxed but put-together and includes sophisticated blazers, pants, skirts and oversized trench coats, while still incorporating feminine touches such as exaggerated peplum jackets, pale, softer colors and draping. Forget those tight pencil skirts and rock the workplace with this pretty, comfortable look that still means business.

Crafted, but contemporary, details. Texture, fringe, crochet and embroidery are on the runway, but the real-world translation is to add these touches in a simple, modern way. I’m loving the open weave knits, like Pointelle knitwear, for a fresh summery look. Keep it more minimalist to stay on-trend.

Shoes. Not surprising based on recent trends, the biggest looks to take you from Spring into Summer are: 

• Boat shoes 
• Suede retro sneakers 
• Chunky loafers or Mary Janes with metallic details 
• Strappy sandals with block heels
• Platform wedges 

Accessories! Always say yes to the finishing touches to personalize your style. Some of the newer (or refreshed/back again) things I’m seeing include: 

• Jewelry: chunky gold hoops are back, and the layering of necklaces is still big. I’m also seeing corded necklaces, with charms or pendants on a black strap, in a lot of stores as well.  
• Silk scarves: maybe you have some in your closet, but if not, anything with a vintage vibe is making a comeback. Scarves are a timeless accessory! 
• Embellished belts and handbags (like with studs) are in, and provide a touch of fun personality. “East-West Handbags” that are long and narrow are also quite popular. 

Here’s my take on a few new favorite products. I wish I had affiliate links but unfortunately, I just do this for you all!  

• I tried the Elf duo brushes that are available everywhere and great for travel. They offer many combinations that work very well for applying foundation, blush, cream and powder and I like how versatile – and inexpensive – they are!  
• Mac’s MACximal matte lipstick is the first matte lipstick I’ve loved. Stays on well without being dry and my favorite shade right now is a mid-tone pink called “You wouldn’t get it”. 
• I also tried Laura Geller products for the first time. I thought the products were pretty good (not great), delivery was fast and easy, and best of all – great customer service. No problem to switch out a shade or ask a question (or two!!). Great value for the cost, and liked it more than I thought I would. I guess those ads finally got to me! 

Question: I’m thinking of going gray, but how does this affect the rest of my style?  Betsy H., Deerfield, IL

Answer: That’s a great move, but embracing gray does shift your overall aesthetic a bit plus opens up some fun opportunities to evolve your style. 

1. Clothing Colors: Gray hair changes how certain colors look on you, so you might notice some shades either wash you out or make you glow.
   • Go for cooler tones such as blue, gray, black or white. Other shades can work, as long as they are on the cooler side of the color wheel. 
   • Be cautious with beige, mustard, peach or other muted earth tones—they can clash or dull your complexion unless balanced right.
2. Makeup Adjustments: Gray hair changes your overall look, so you might need a little more contrast in your makeup to stay vibrant.
   • Brows: Define them—your brows frame your face and make a big difference.
   • Eyes: A touch of eyeliner and mascara makes your eyes pop. 
   • Blush & Lipstick: Go for rosy pink tones to add back color into your skin.
3. Jewelry & Accessories: Silver and white-gold work beautifully with gray hair, but don’t rule out gold—it  depends on what you’re wearing and your skin tone.
4. Some overall thoughts: 
   • One thing I always tell my clients is that this works best with a killer haircut. You want your hairstyle to have a more modern look to feel your most confident. Otherwise, 
   • Want to go elegant? Think tailored, clean lines, minimalism.
   • Want to go artsy or bold? Try playful patterns, statement glasses, and pops of color.

Would you describe your current style as more classic, edgy, boho, minimalist—or something else? I can tailor suggestions better with your vibe in mind. Let me know!