This spring and summer, one of the biggest (and best) runway trends could be your secret weapon to office stardom, your next date, or any other situation in which you want to present yourself with class. For a handful of designers, sex appeal was on the back burner, and represented in a garment's detail and cut. It was hinted at playfully rather than overtly put on display. From the recent past in which we saw the platform heel reach outlandish heights, the inevitable backlash has now given us pointed flats, chunky short heels and a wardrobe to match subtler sensibilities. Check out some of our favorite looks from some of our favorite designers who embraced this trend beautifully.
One of Spring's Biggest Trends? Quietly Sexy Clothes
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Out of the Box
Some designers chose waist cinching to show femininity, Marc Jacobs chose a boxy shift (a la late 60s style) that left everything up top to the imagination, and the stems on display. The graphic print and high neckline keep it sweet, and his low heels and flats let the show of leg be almost girlish, too.
Louis Vuitton Image: IMAXtree
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Green With Envy
Another spring hit. A reminder of new buds aren't the only thing that makes this bold green gorgeous. The sliky satin finish is so feminine, and the longer hem length (not to mention overall construction), are entirely proper.
Louis Vuitton Image: IMAXtree
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Blue Bell
When something is cut this well, it doesn't need any bells or whistles to stand out. But one wouldn't be wrong to add a pop of color via makeup, as seen in the runway styling. The possibilities with this up class frock are endless.
Christian Dior Image: IMAXtree
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Sheer Genius
No doubt you've heard (and read) all about sheer looks, but this is different. Rather than being overlaid on a bra (or braless) top, it's a textured element on top of a refined strapless sheath.
Christian Dior Image: IMAXtree
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Vertical Slit
This model is covered from head to toe in an unbelievably gorge look. Everything is left to the imagination, but for a sliver of skin down the front of her blouse. So subtle, and so sexy.
Valentino Image: IMAXtree
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Seeing Clearly
Another layering technique: transparent rain jacket. Even though the model is completely covered, and demurely dressed, there is still something that hints at a private show. Perhaps it's the genius choice of nude underneath.
Valentino Image: IMAXtree
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Eyelet
One more Valentino for the road. The sleeveless shirt-styled bodice is fully buttoned, the skirt is below the knee. And all you see are tiny pieces of skin showing through small slits.
Image: IMAXtree
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With a Twist
It's probably obvious at this point that one way of looking sexy without being obvious is through the use of soft, sheer fabrics, and textured details. The twist at the front of this otherwise simple blouse is simply stunning.
Céline Image: IMAXtree
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The Cut
What do you do when you pair an old school print with an old school fit-and-flare shape? How do you make it feel fresh, youthful and midday boardwalk appropriate? Exactly like this. While some skin is showing, the overall effect is covered due to the placement of the cut-outs.
Carven Image: IMAXtree
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Colorblocked
Rarely has colorblocking been used to such great, innovative effect. It's the shape of the pieces and color choices that draw the eye down an imaginary hourglass curve. The dress itself (as you can see) is a standard short-sleeved shirt style.
Carven Image: IMAXtree
