Hosted in the beautiful flagship Belk at Galleria Dallas, the Belk Fashion Tour is a private, invitation only, event for media and fashion insiders to get the scoop on upcoming trends.

The most recent edition of the Tour focused on what’s hot for spring 2015. Arlene Goldstein, VP of Trend Merchandising and Fashion Direction, showcased the four Style Statements for the season and her “Most Wanted” lists for women and men.

Models, styled by Charmaine Marshall, Belk Personal Shopper, displayed looks and accessories highlighting designer brands found at Belk such as Trina Turk, Ralph Lauren, Vince Camuto, Dolce Vita, Sam Edelman, Pink Tartan and French Connection.

Let’s start with the Style Statements as described by Arlene Goldstein:

L to R: Garden Party, Spare Me, Sport Chic & Islander
Photo Credit: Shana Anderson Photography

Garden Party: Imagine a fashion folio showcasing dreamy pales and mid-tones, a wardrobe of whites, florals and beautiful botanicals. Think, lace-like textiles, sheers, intricate appliques, embroideries, and crystal pleats. Flower-motifs are everywhere. Expect amazing accessories like colorful stone treatments, pearl variations and statement earrings, polished off with lady-like handbags and single sole pumps—often with ankle interest.

Spare Me: Expect a modern aesthetic highlighting architectural forms like A-line, columns and trumpet skirts, along with tunics, over-sized shirts and trapeze dresses. Rely on advanced shine, sheers, unexpected fabric mixes and coated surfaces, along with bold stripes, artistic scribble, grids and photo realism as some of the modern fabric options. Bold cuffs, chokers, over-sized clutches, mini bags, and shoes with bottom interest will have you putting your best foot forward.

Sport Chic: This trend is borrowed from the gym. Performance fabrics like jersey, double knits, nylon mesh and scuba are complemented by innovative perfs, color blocking and contrast zippers. Athletic-inspired hoodies, bombers, halters and jog pants are paired with more polished items. Stylish sneakers as well as sneaker-influenced sandals and sport-style booties with new-age backpacks and totes are a must.

Islander: A travelogue full of pattern mixes, wraps, ties, tassels, and fringe will feel so fresh. Exotic details include beading and embroideries with eye-catching bright colors. Mixed media is the message for add-ons with an organic flavor. Add layered necks, arm candy, big gold hoops, statement earrings, head wraps and strappy sandals with bold bottoms.

Now that you know the upcoming trend stories, prepare for spring using Arlene’s “Most Wanted” lists.

Ladies…
1.       Kimono
2.       Soft Pants
3.       Easy Fit Top
4.       Matched Set
5.       Longer Skirt
6.       Jumpsuit
7.       Floral Dress
8.       Statement Earrings
9.       Glitzy Sandals
10.     Look at Me Lips

Men…
1.       Updated Polo
2.       Shorter Short
3.       Bold Prints
4.       Jog Shorts
5.       Athletic-Inspired Knit
6.       Plaid Sportcoat
7.       White Pants
8.       Spring Suit
9.       Fashion Add-Ons
10.     Sneaker-Style Slip Ons

Be encouraged to pull off the season’s hottest trends for work, play or special events. As a reminder, personal shopping and styling is a complimentary service at Belk Galleria Dallas. To schedule a one-on-one session with Charmaine, email charmaine_marshall@belk.com or call (972) 383-3170, ext. 293.

Connect with Charmaine on her social media channels – Twitter:@charmainedesign and Instagram: CharmaineMarshallDesigns.

Scoop: Keep an eye out for a post on the items I am loving for spring and summer.