The groundhog may have predicted six more weeks of winter, but there is no delaying spring fashion.
While students are still snuggling under sweatshirts and warm socks, it is time to check out spring clothing.
According to Style.com, the recession caused designers to look back to other periods of economic upheaval, more specifically the 1930s and 1980s.
Many designers, such as Marc Jacobs and Burberry Prorsurm, were influenced by depression era styles.
This trend is called "depression chic."
"Depression chic" consists of drop waist cuts, loose dresses, socks with heels, oxfords and faded fabrics.
"Marc Jacob's show was my favorite for spring 2009," said Christa Cotton, a senior in finance.
Other designers focused on the variety of the 1980s.
Style.com highlights designers such as Alexander Wang and Balmain who showed ripped denim, shredded lace and leather accessories.
Sporty looks, as shown by designers John Galliano and Missoni, focused on soft fabrics and loose cuts and were also popular on the runway for spring.
Despite these inspirations, commercial fashion has not radically changed from last spring, said Chloe Popwell, general manager of Behind the Glass.
"In previous spring seasons, there was always a must-have new trend such as gladiators or gauchos; this season there is no must-have and it is affecting sales," Popwell said.
Popwell notes that many pieces from Spring 2008 are still in season.
"Lightweight scarves, long dresses, the gladiator sandal and skinny jeans have all carried over from last year, although they are much less extreme," Popwell said. "For example, last year we carried gladiator sandals that laced up to the knees. This season is much more mellow."
Courtney Brannan, a sophomore in interior design, plans on wearing and updating some key pieces from last season.
"I will definitely be wearing my long dresses because they are kind of hippy and have not been in season for too long," Brannan said. "Of course, I am still wearing my gladiators, and I am really excited they are still in season."
Behind the Glass is currently stocking knit shirts, boyfriend jeans and long dresses, all in bright colors or florals.
Popwell said everything is a bit looser and more relaxed from previous seasons.
Vintage looking accessories, such as thin waist belts, long strap purses, scarves and strappy sandals, also create key looks for the season.
Bagley is looking forward to mixing some new sandals with older scarves .
"I can't wait to wear strappy sandals with lots of beading and bright colors." Bagley said. "I will also be wearing my lightweight scarves again."
For those who can't wait for spring, temperatures may not be rising for another few weeks, but it is still possible to wear some spring pieces now.
"I know its still cold, but you can mix your fall pieces in with lighter ones, such as white jeans," Popwell said.
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