Bare Some Leg For Spring
No more hiding inside heavy stockings and tall boots. Spring means it's time to show off a flash of leg and the newest styles of shorts and shoes are now in stores.
But picking the looks that flatter you most isn't always easy. So The Early Show turned to the experts, inviting Mandi Norwood, editor in chief of Shop, Etc., to
"You don't have to be a stick-thin model to wear shorts this year," Norwood told co-anchor Rene Syler, because the new styles have "lots of coverage."
Look No. 1: Bermuda shorts with wedge shoe
A tailored, all-white look is a la mode this season, particularly below the waist. And knee-grazing Bermuda shorts are showing up everywhere. A highly versatile style, look for versions with tailored details, such as tab waist fronts, stretch cotton, and dressed-up fabrics. The more tailored, box cut Bermudas are great for wider hips and printed shorts will counterbalance top-heavy proportions.
For a more casual approach, flattering for a wider silhouette and broader thighs: JC Penney shorts, $36.
Wedge heeled shoes are a great match for Bermudas. In fact, wedges are everywhere this season, in a large variety of styles and materials, from metallics to lace-ups. The V-shape of a wedge elongates the leg and adds height, giving the illusion of a longer leg.
Look No. 2: Pedal pushers with skimmers
Well-fitted pedal pushers graze right past the knee, capris end near the mid-calf or just below the calf. They don't elongate the leg, but they are a flattering cut for women with larger thighs and make a great look for casual but stylish weekend wear.
A wide variety of capris and pedal pushers can also be found at Liz Claiborne, such as the paisley print Capri, $70.
Skimmers are a great shoe style for pedal pushers, bringing the classic Audrey Hepburn look. They differ from ballet flats because of the very low-cut front and extra-shallow sides, which literally skim your foot. A flirtier version has a peep toe, to allow a glimpse of well-manicured summer feet.
Fashion tip: The taller you are, the rounder the toe should be. A pointed toe will continue to elongate the leg if you are petite.
Look No. 3: Gauchos with platform heels
It's official, gauchos have moved beyond loungewear now that the trendy H&M has started selling an updated version. The classic cotton gaucho hits the calf with flared legs; these are in a great black cotton, making them highly versatile. Think of them as an "every occasion" pant, which can be dressed up with the right top for a night on the town.
The gaucho active wear trend was inspired by last year's yoga craze. Hollywood starlets like Jessica Simpson and Lindsay Lohan have been spotted shopping on Melrose in flared A-line gauchos, which give almost the same look and feel as a skirt. Gauchos flatter all body shapes and can camouflage trouble thigh areas. For the pleated and cuffed gaucho, consider a fitted top to accentuate the waistline.
Another comfortable version is the waist band jersey knit gauchos by Ella Moss. The elastic makes these particularly comfortable and a durable jersey stretches for room where you want it.
Platform heels complete the gaucho look. Because the legs are wide, the higher heel balances the swing of the pants. Platforms give both extra lift and surprising comfort if you wear them with a cushioned insole. This season they are showing up in many variations, including gold, Lucite and wood versions.