“Florals? For spring? Groundbreaking.”— purrs Miranda Priestly in her simmering, venomous drawl during a story meeting for the April issue in
The Devil Wears Prada.

So what to make of the 3-D embroidered floral appliqués that bloomed all over the Spring/Summer 2013 runways? Well, they
were groundbreaking—and we’re not saying that with Miranda’s stinging condescension.

GET THE LOOK: How to wear the latest Spring 2013 runway trends

In fact, we couldn’t get enough of the lace-embroidered petal designs that gave the spring collections at Erdem and Oscar de la Renta their 3-D edge. We chatted with
celeb stylist Micaela Erlanger—Michelle Dockery’s red carpet-go-to expert—for ready-to-pick advice on how to add 3-D florals to your look this spring.


Spring 2013 3-D floral fashion trend: Beginners should start with separate
s

If you can’t commit to an all over delicate lace and floral-embroidered organza and silk-satin dress (though we fully support this decision!), spring for a fresh, delicate piece to help your otherwise minimal look pop.


Spring 2013 runway inspiration:
A deep navy cotton-embroidered short-sleeved top tucked into black faille evening shorts with low pointy heels, seen at Oscar de la Renta.


Build the look:
“To translate this trend from runway to real-way, start by choosing separates,” says Erlanger. “Hone in on one piece or detail—whether it’s a top, sweater, oversized collar, a cropped jacket, skirt or pair of shorts.” Then mix in with your signature wardrobe essentials, like a navy blazer or slim black pant.


Spring 2013 3-D floral fashion trend: Create a focal point

It’s possible to recreate this 3-D runway look without overshadowing a just-bloomed garden. “It’s about balance,” says Erlanger. “Choose something bold, such as a larger lace pattern, a great bright color, or something with an unexpected detail, like a sheer overlay or inset.”


Spring 2013 runway inspiration:
The powder blue silk-satin dresses with a bouquet of tangerine and mauve floral appliqués at Erdem. Also: Sienna Miller ethereal two-piece Erdem creation for her red carpet look at the 2013 Golden Globes.


Build the look:
With a 3-D-statement piece, pare down to basics for the rest of your outfit. “Shoes and accessories should be clean, feminine, and minimal,” says Erlanger. “Avoid chunky shoes and busy jewellery. Try pairing your look with simple and fun accents, like a colourful necklace or pearls, and a
bright, sleek clutch or clean top handle bag.”


Fashion essentials: 10 pretty spring dresses

Read on to the next page for more fresh takes on the floral fashion trend this spring 2013…

Erdem-RS13-0727canvas.jpgSpring 2013 3-D floral trend: Remember that balance is key

Bask in a garden lush with ornately stitched daisies and flowering patchwork—just be strategic with where you plant them: “Combine pieces with opposing yet complementary textures—military and sequins, lace and florals,— it’s about adding punch to something super ladylike and surprising people with the unexpected,” says Erlanger.

“Consider the size or the print in contrast to the size of the 3-D piece. A Liberty print paired with lace or macramé will work. However, a larger print, say camouflage, is better combined with a smaller texture, like sequins.”

Spring 2013 runway inspiration:
Erlanger’s favourite 3-D designs this season? “Oscar, Erdem, Valentino, Dolce and Jason Wu,” she gushes. “These designers took simple silhouettes and jazzed them up. They pulled the looks together by adding colour, texture and a bit of surprise while keeping the overall feel ladylike and classic.”

Build the look: Keep makeup soft and feminine with delicate pastels. “If you have an embellished neckline or top, pull your hair back,” Erlanger advises. “Headbands and messy buns will keep your look from getting too buttoned-up and overdone.” Think Downton Abbey-chic, but also, well, downtown.

Micaela Erlanger is a celebrity stylist with Starworks Artists.

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