March 4 Fashion

Growing up, my mom subscribed to allll the fashion magazines. Allure, Marie Claire, Vogue, W, Elle – you name it. Around this time of the year, these magazines doubled in size and weight with pages dappled with new bold colors, new silhouettes, and new energy. Fast forward a few years… and the excitement for a new spring season still rings true. Mannequins are now adorned in fresh colors and shapes we haven’t seen in what feels like a century. And retailers large and small are embracing these palette-cleansing looks in their own way. For the past 10 years, Mercantile Portland has welcomed spring with its annual event, March 4 Fashion. It’s our salute to fashion week! While models are walking the runway in New York, London, Milan, and Paris, we’re gathering fresh, vibrant styles from our favorite designers for the season. The countdown begins for spring so let’s unpack some of the latest looks. 

The theme of romance continues! Pastels are HERE along with embellished flowers and tasteful ruffles on everyday pieces. And sheer styles emerge into workwear with a graceful combination of flirty and sophisticated (think Marie Antoinette motif with less pomp and guillotine.) Xirena just debuted some new sets that range in all colors of the pastel rainbow, and their new tops are light as air, which add a playful flair to your favorite denim. The newest collection from Vince adds not only pastels but satins with more dimension and movement than years past. These details are a welcome sight as we burst out of our winter coats and into new silhouettes. 

One of our favorite designers, Akris Punto, is showing off another beloved trend of the spring season: Preppy. It’s also known as “Nautical”, “East Coast Prep,” or “Coastal Cool.” Whatever you call it, we love the washed canvas, all the navy, and the cable knit detailing that’s threading through the season and instilling Nantucket wanderlust. Plus, you can’t forget your stripes as we head into these warmer months! The classic touch of this trend combined with the laid-back silhouettes of the season creates the perfect companion in navigating changing temps. Nili Lotan is a designer known for her timeless looks and her classic twist on trends. The navy Jamison Jacket epitomizes this concept with its pinched waist juxtaposed against the masculine silhouette. Chef’s kiss! 

Bag charms! The maximalism trend is continuing to rise and I’m here for it. We love our neutrals and know we need them, but it’s freeing knowing we can weave the brighter parts of our personality into some of our basics. Hence the age of handbag accessories! Designers like Wandler have playful multi-colored leather tassels that add personality and punch to my favorite black carryall I’ve been toting all season. My Bob, a fun colorful brand known for their whimsical wicker creations, just released their unbelievably cute bag charm collection. (I want to collect every one they make.) It’s a way to subtly transition to the new season in my own way, and add color to my neutral bags. Have any fun scarves? Try tying them around your favorite handbag for some added flair. The more, the better. 

March 4 Fashion is almost here and it signals the arrival of fresh, new energy for retail and for fellow fashion lovers. It reminds us of all the fun parts of the year that lie ahead. I cannot WAIT to see how people begin to put their personalities into these transitional looks. 

Until next time,