Spring Trends 2016

We are so ready to kick off these socks and long sleeves and embrace spring! There's something about this time of year, when the weather starts to warm up, the days get longer and the birds start chirping again, that really makes us feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Of course, all of the new, cute clothes that are hitting the stores doesn't hurt either! We've rounded up the trends we are really excited about this spring and detailed them all below. We went ahead and shared the links to them all too, just to make it easier for you to snag these beauties. What are you most excited about wearing this spring?

Trend #1: Gladiator Sandals
These sandals have been in and out for the last several years, but they are definitely in again! They are the perfect way to make a bold statement this spring and go perfectly with almost all of the other trends that are big this season.

1. Urban Outfitters
2. Modcloth
3. Steve Madden
4. Zooshoo
5.GoJane
6. Zooshoo

Trend # 2: Off-the Shoulder
Spring is the perfect time to show off those soon-to-be sun kissed shoulders! This trend is all over the place this season, on dresses and tops. You will also see its close cousin, the cold-shoulder top.

1. ASOS
2. Modcloth
3. Modcloth
4. H&M
5. ASOS
6. ASOS

Trend #3: Vertical Stripes
Stripes in general are always in, but this season they are getting a bolder look with vertical stripes. You can rock this trend in a little (accessories) or a big (dresses and pants) way. Horizontal stripes will also (and forever) be showing themselves too.

1. Modcloth
2. Forever 21
3. Anthropologie
4. Modcloth
5. ASOS
6. Modcloth
7. Modcloth

Trend #4: White Shirt Redux
The basic white shirt is always a classic, but this spring, you will see it with a high fashion twist. Look out for versions that are long, cropped, slashed, and generally just twisted every which way. You name it, there will be a white shirt version of it.

1. Forever 21
2. ASOS
3. Modcloth
4. ASOS
5. ASOS
6. Forever 21

Trend #5: Wrap Skirts
A wrapped silhouette is universally flattering. That's why the wrap dress is a classic that never goes out of style. Well this season, we are moving the wrap to the bottom half. Wrap skirts will be everywhere and will also come in various lengths and styles.

1. Forever 21
2. ASOS
3. Modcloth
4. Nasty Gal
5. Forever 21
6. ASOS
7. Nasty Gal

Trend #6: Ruffles
Does anything scream spring more than ruffles? You will see this frill on tops, dresses, skirts, shorts...even shoes and purses! Which is perfect, because it lends itself to our last huge trend...

1. Forever 21
2. ASOS
3. Topshop
4. Forever 21
5. Forever 21
6. ASOS
7. Nasty Gal

Trend #7: Hyper Romantic
I think we might be the most excited about this trend. We're talking plaid level of excitement here people! The hyper romantic trend is partially a carryover of the Victorian trend from fall, but much more light and bright and punched up about a hundred levels. This is an overarching trend that will influence almost everything you are going to see in stores this spring. We're talking floral patterns, pastels, ruffles, lace, embroidery, ribbon, shine...anything feminine and lovey dovey.

1. Nasty Gal
2. Modcloth
3. ASOS
4. Miss Selfridge
5. ASOS
6. Modcloth
7. ASOS
8. ASOS
9. ASOS
10. Modcloth

Happy shopping!

Aubergine Scene

Aubergine, (the French word for eggplant—I mean, doesn't that sound so much fancier than "eggplant"??) may be a darker color that works in the fall, but it doesn't have to be cold weather exclusive! This rich jewel tone mockneck is both cropped and short-sleeved, so for Springtime it is.

I'm not sure if you've noticed, but I've been a little bonkers over these over-the-knee boots this winter. I thought for sure they'd have gone into retirement for the season, what with 75 degree days we had a month ago. But, that's good ol' Midwest weather for you, because there are some chilly temps back in action, which gives these babies one last hoo-rah!

This black and white bandage skirt is just the right length to pair with OTK boots and it sits high enough to keep a sophisticated pairing with the crop top. 

When I start pairing with black and white, it's no secret that I may get a little carried away. I mean, I couldn't just leave this bold skirt out there on its own. Enter my super fun Betsey Johnson purse and black and white art deco necklace. 

Just remember, don't feel boxed in by colors that are so "cold weather" or patterns "only for summer." You make the rules!  

 

-Molly

  

Outfit Details: Top: Forever 21 (similar), Skirt: Target, Over-the-knee boots: Forever 21, Necklace: Walmart, Purse: Modcloth, Sunglasses: Zooshoo

Dressed Up Kimono

I love a good kimono. They are comfy and chic and really, what more do you need in an article of clothing? Technically, I guess this one falls into the "duster" category, but we're going to be calling it a longline, sleek kimono for today's post. 

Whatever you call it, it's a great way to add another element to an otherwise just okay outfit. It immediately takes it from "eh" to interesting. The leopard print shoes and belt don't hurt either. 

I think this look could work at the office or out for a night. Add tights and you're even good to go for cooler weather (which seems to be every other day around this time of year). Now, go out and get your kimono on! 

 

-Jodi

 

Outfit details: Dress: Dear Creatures, Duster kimono: Forever 21, Belt: Target, Shoes: Target, Clutch: T.J. Maxx

Cadbury Mini Egg Pretzel Nests

With Easter coming up this weekend, we've got the perfect themed treat for you to whip up and share with your family, friends, or coworkers. I know these little Cadbury nests are nothing new, but they're so easy, cute, and tasty, and I put a bit of a different spin on them by using pretzels. Because nothing it better than chocolate and pretzels.

 

 

Below I've laid out the measurements for one batch, which makes 9 nests, but I made a batch of each white and bittersweet chocolate, and I think that helps mix it up and give people options.

 

 

 

You'll need:

1 cup (sticking straight up, as shown above) of pretzel sticks
1 cup bittersweet chocolate or white chocolate morsels (I did both!)
Baking spray
27 Cadbury mini eggs (plus some for eating, obviously)
Parchment Paper

Yields: 9 nests

 

 

 

First, lay out a surface with parchment paper and get your baking spray ready. (Once the chocolate is hot, you'll have to work quickly!) Heat up morsels in a microwave safe bowl in 30 second increments, stirring in between microwaving with a fork. Meanwhile, place pretzels in a large Ziploc bag and hit to partially crush with rolling pin or heavy object.

 

  

Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the pretzel pieces until combined well. Spoon out mounds of the mixture into 9 equal parts with a tablespoon on the parchment paper.

 

 

Coating your fingers with baking spray as you go, press your thumbs down into the middle of the mounds and pull the sides up to form a nest shape. Add sprinkles if desired. Once you've formed all of the nests, go back to the first one and squeeze shape inward to make sure it stays tight.

 

 

 

Let the nests sit for 30-60 minutes, or until fully set. Place 3 eggs in each nest and serve immediately or store in a plastic container for up to a week.

 

 

Hope you and yours have an eggs-ellent Easter! And I hope all those eggs are chocolate. And in these adorable nests.

 

-Molly

 

Wear it Two Ways: Faux Leather Skirt

Apparently we're on a faux leather kick here at Mod Circus. Last month, our Wear it Two Ways feature was Faux Leather Pants, and this month, we're styling up their slightly-warmer-weather cousin, the faux leather skirt. Faux leather is a very versatile way to add a little edge into an otherwise normal outfit. Plus, it's workplace and weekend appropriate, which is always a win-win in our book!

MOLLY

In recently sorting through my closet, I've found that a ridiculous amount of my clothes are black and white. From polka dots, to stripes, to all varieties of patterns. It really has the most timeless combination there is. I'm anything but mad about it. Sometimes, it's fun just to keep it all black and white to focus on the drama of the pattern.

My A-line leather skirt could be styled in many different ways, but I thought it would be the perfect statement piece for a fun '60s mod vibe. This black and white striped turtleneck has been a staple in my wardrobe over the last few months and it has the perfect classic style to bring retro to the present day.

Obviously, over-the-knee boots, reminiscent of go-go boots were in order for this ensemble. A black bow purse and rose gold watch add a feminine vibe while still being subtle and giving the spotlight to the top and skirt.

Round sunnies and a baby beehive updo with large stud earrings help cement the mod vibe for a throwback look that still stays fresh. 

Molly's Outfit Details: Turtleneck: H&M (similar), Skirt: H&M, Purse: Target, Over-the-knee boots: Forever 21, Sunglasses: Modcloth, Watch: Modcloth, Earrings: Kohl's

 

JODI

I always love a little leather touch here and there. It's a great way to elevate your outfit and take it to the next level. It also goes with almost anything. In short, it's a pretty badass statement material. 

In my endless quest to pair this leather skirt with everything in my closet, I stumbled across this top from Zara that I got ages ago. I've always had trouble finding the perfect way to style it. It's not quite right with jeans and its shape is a little too boxy to wear untucked. Enter, the faux leather skirt. 

It's a perfect partner to this top. Finally, I've found the best way to wear this shirt after so many years of trying. This shirt itself is pretty great too, with it's gold epaulets and blue camo,  so I'm so happy I can actually wear it loud and proud now. 

These leopard print heels balance out the look nicely by acting as a neutral to the busy top half. I kept the rest of my accessories sleek and structured as well to keep things in check. It's a fine line between military chic and camo hot mess. 

Jodi's Outfit Details: Faux leather skirt: The Limited, Top: Zara, Heels: Target, Bag: River Island, Sunglasses: Nasty Gal, Earrings: Chloe + Isabel 

Fringe Benefits

 

Kimonos might be my very favorite Spring article of clothing. They still keep your arms covered when it's not that warm out yet, but they're flowy and drapey, so they're much less formal and warm than, say, a cardigan.

 

 

Without a doubt, fringe kimonos are my favorite type of kimono. They automatically take you out of your hum-drum life and suddenly you're a 1920s jazz singer sashaying around a nightclub. Or an aristocrat lounging about your town home, moving from one chaise lounge to another. Until your fringe catches on a door handle, and you realize you're in your office and you need to pay attention to those tricky door handles. That hassle is worth the daydream, though, let me tell you.

 

 

I styled this dramatic black floral kimono with a long tassel necklace, large ring, and jacket earrings for a look that's perfectly vintage-inspired modern. Fun sunglasses combined with the jewelry play up the '20s vibe.

 

  

Since I love the bold pop of red in the floral pattern, I couldn't resist going with a bold red lip to mirror it.  My "Frankenstein Mary Janes" as I so lovingly call them were the perfect edgy-modern-vintage-influenced shoe to complete the ensemble. Lastly, a high pony takes the focus off my hair and onto that fringe. I mean, look at that fringe!

 

Now, go forth and sashay, my friends! Are you kimono crazy too?

 

-Molly  

 

 

 

Molly's Outfit Details: Top: TJ Maxx (similar), Kimono: TJ Maxx (similar), Black Jeans: Forever 21, Shoes: Modcloth (similar), Necklace: Wal-Mart, Sunglasses: Forever 21 (similar), Earrings: Chloe + Isabel (similar), Ring: Chloe + Isabel

Donnie's Homespun Pizza

Donnie's Homespun Pizza is a funky little pizza place in our neighborhood. It is, without a doubt, the go-to place for vegan and vegetarian food in town and probably has the best lineup of craft beer and fun bottled sodas you'll find too! Stop by in the evening, and you may be able to catch their weekly Wednesday open mic night or any number of musicians they have play on their makeshift stage at the front. They also help organize a monthly street festival during the summer months that showcases local musicians, rock bands and artists. 

With the weather getting to be so nice we walked over and grabbed some of our favorite dishes for a late lunch and obviously had to play up the hippie rocker vibe. Because if we've said it once, we've said it a bazillion times: life is more fun with themed outfits.

Donnie's has a wonderfully relaxed and artistic atmosphere, which promptly greets you when you walk in the front door. Music posters, instruments, and art from local artists is prominently on display.

Molly was able to snap this picture above right before a rush of people arrived for afternoon snacks and cocktails. With the weather so nice, a number of people were enjoying their outdoor patio, too!

Molly is all about stouts and porters, so she went with the server's recommendation of the Obsidian Stout from Deschutes Brewery, and was not disappointed. Jodi went with the craft ginger ale soda and her husband, who tagged along, went with the Two Hearted Ale from Bell's Brewery. They also serve banana bread beer in a brown sugar rimmed glass that is absolutely life changing. 



The cheesy bread is an absolute no-brainer. It only costs like $4, and has a heavenly mix of butter and herbs on it. Oh, and cheese, glorious cheese. The bread is nice and light, so it's not too filling. You have to get it.

Molly went with the veggie melt pita wrap and added chicken, which was dynamite. Blue corn tortilla chips and homemade hummus top off their wraps and sandwiches, but are worth just getting on the side if they don't come with your order. A few of her other favorite menu picks are the sweet and spicy black bean burger, vegan sweet potato wrap, and the Sicilian and San Francisco veggie pizzas. Basically half the menu.

Jodi ordered the three cheese, spinach and artichoke thin crust pizza. You can order pizzas in several sizes, including individual 10" all the way up to large 16".  This pizza was the perfect size for a late afternoon lunch, plus it was so yummy! The cheeses paired perfectly with the spinach, artichoke and red sauce. A definite must try as well! Jodi's husband created his own Hawaiian style pizza, which he devoured in a matter of minutes. They have numerous toppings to build your own pizza, so you really can't leave disappointed. 

As we mentioned above, we went with a hippie rocker theme for our afternoon attire. Jodi paired a vintage style Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers tee with a burgundy leather jacket and '70s style bell bottom flares. She rounded out the look with a floppy hat and camel colored tote. 

Molly took this opportunity to wear a new pair of black flares and a fringe hoodie that's really only good for certain occasions. This was clearly one of them. Oversized sunnies, a skull tee, and lots of jewelry round out a perfectly hippie rocker look.

Hope to see you soon at one of our very favorite neighborhood spots! Cheers!

-Molly and Jodi

Jodi's Outfit Details: Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers tee: Modcloth, Jacket: Modcloth (similar), Flares: Express, Hat: Badgley Mischka (vintage boutique find), Sunglasses: Nasty Gal

Molly's Outfit Details: Skull Top: H&M, Fringe Hoodie: Urban Outfitters, Black Flares: H&M (similar for $10!), Necklace: DIY from Hobby Lobby, Earrings: Kohl's and Target Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters, Ring: Forever 21