Cracking the code to spring fashion

Some seasons force women into the role of fashion detectives who have to decipher designers' intentions, crack the style code, and assemble looks that make sense on city streets.

But this spring, they don't have to unravel big-time secrets, unlike characters in the upcoming season's sure-to-be-blockbuster film, "The Da Vinci Code," who trolled the museums, boulevards and chapels of Paris, London and Rome in search of clues.

After seasons of bared midriffs and worn-down-to-there jeans and trousers, unabashed femininity and glamor are back in a big way. It's no secret that spring 2007 is one of the prettiest and most girly (in a good way) we've seen in years.

"I think it could be a reaction to a lot of the overt sexiness in dress in seasons past," says Krista Meyers, owner of the Krista K boutique at 3458 N. Southport. "There's something about leaving something to the imagination or being ladylike and feminine without showing a lot of skin. Tops have gotten longer; the pant rise is coming up a little bit."

Best of all, you don't have to be model-thin or blessed with an Oprah-sized bank account to shine in this season's looks. A bit of originality, along with some updated touches, is all it takes.

Says Jim Wetzel, co-owner and buyer of Jake boutiques at 939 N. Rush and 3740 N. Southport: "There's this return to wanting to be pretty and have personality show through the clothes."

Here, we help decode spring's style for real women.

http://www.suntimes.com/output/lifestyles/cst-ftr-fash16.html

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