What: Kerry Washington’s matching Giambattista Valli Couture dress and Bottega Veneta shoes at the 2013 Film Independent Spirit Awards.
Why: The key to success with Washington’s ensemble is the cohesive green color scheme from head-to-toe. Also, keeping it simple with accessories is another reason why this look works.
What: Naomie Harris’ Monique Lhuillier sheath dress, Edie Parker clutch and Stuart Weitzman ankle booties at the ESSENCE Black Woman in Hollywood luncheon.
Why: Side panel prints are a girls best friend. If you’re petite like Harris it gives the illusion of curves, and it accentuates your assets if your a full figured fashionista.
What: Garcelle Beauvais’ Oscar de la Renta dress, Chanel drop earrings and MCM clutch at
the Harper’s BAZAAR celebration of Decades new Bravo series Dukes of Melrose.
Why: The contrast colored lace overlay is the perfect way to transition patterns into evening wear. Lace is elegant and the color palette gives the dress personality.
What: Keke Palmer’s Bec and Bridge patterned pants at the ESSENCE Black Woman in Hollywood Luncheon.
Why: There’s a time and place for patterns and this clean solid Bec and Bridge blazer and H&M button-down paired with a printed pant works the trend in moderation. We also give a thumbs up for throwing in a wild card: neon pink pumps.
What: Emeli Sande in a floral print frock while performing at the Brit Awards in London.
Why: We’re swooning not only over her voice, but over her romantic rose-print frock. By pairing it with a pastel top she makes the dark print pop and freshens up the florals.
What: Zoe Saldana’s Dolce & Gabbana midi dress and her sister Cisely’s pretty patterned style.
Why: Zoe’s dress melds two of the season’s sweetest trends into one: emerald green and stripes –– the perfect spring update. While her sister Cisely works a simple shape in a cherry red pattern that’s far from basic.
What: Solange’s Mia Moretti x Pencey suit and Stuart Weitzman sandals at SXSW in Austin, Texas.
Why: Solo is taking this season’s florals to the next level by playing up this plant motif. In the right tailored two-piece suit style, you can pull off almost anything.
What: The Revenge actress’ J.Mendel cropped trapeze top and A-line skirt with “Neuron” Christian Louboutins.
Why: This psychedelic print is a walking work of art, plus the midriff is still having it’s moment from fall. So Sexy!
What: Jada Pinkett Smith’s snakeskin coat at the Michael Kors show during New York Fashion Week.
Why: Just when you thought snakeskin couldn’t get any hotter, the actress steps it up majorly in this teal trench coat style that’s so fabulous it doubles as a dress. Colored animal prints are the way to go for spring!
What: Producer Mara Brock Akil’s printed Peter Pilotto dress at the ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood Luncheon.
Why: What’s not to lust about? It’s a flirty fit-and-flare dress with a popping all-over pattern which makes it youthful yet still grown and sexy all in one.
