The birds crow and the insects murmur, the first buds of spring open their new born petals and the bees suckle at their nectarine breast. Here in spring, no mention of winter is allowed and as the ice begins to thaw so do our frozen hearts, coming alive again in time for spring. There is something so joyous about the beginning of spring, the birds and bees co-exist in a synonymous harmony and the children gather excitedly round the front door, ready to step into spring and make magic happen. For me the notion of ‘spring’ runs a little deeper than a ‘frivolous pastime’ and holds special resonance close to my heart. It was during the first buds of spring that I was rescued from an oppressive childhood by my foster mum and aunty and welcomed into a new life where I could be free to express myself in any shape or form. It was during spring that I discovered my love for transitional fashion, creating a look that was caught between the cusp of two alternate seasons and it was spring that inspired my blog name, ‘Faded Spring’. When people asked me why I was called ‘Faded Spring’ I stated simply that spring had always been a part of my identity and how I saw myself as a person and it was the months which had truly made me feel alive. The winters were too cold and the summers too hot but spring was like Goldilocks said, ‘just right’, in short it was me.
I wanted to step into spring this season with a flair in my step and a chance to forge new beginnings, as last spring I was going through a difficult time with the deaths of my angels, poor living arrangements and a lack of finances. This spring though, I can smell change in the air; I might not have much money but at least I am happy, I work with brands who love and respect my work and am rewarded with a new wardrobe to extol my writing credentials. With some brands like Blue Vanilla, I have been fortunate enough to work with them several times and to me it is a mark of a good working relationship, when the brand wants to work together again. While I was Tripping In Space with Blue Vanilla in winter, this spring I chose a trend that reflected who I want to be this season and that is a woman liberated from societal control.
We live our lives being told what we can and can’t wear, where even some guidelines are dictated by the seasonal ‘trend reports’ but quite honestly you do YOU. If you want to show some skin in the middle of winter, you go for it or if you want to wear ‘winter trends’ in the middle of summer, why the hell not? For me one of the biggest ‘spring’ trends is the off-the- shoulder/ cold shoulder trend, that sensually skims the shoulders in perfect rapport. I grew up in an environment that was quite conservative and because I was seen as a petite little girl with a tomboy figure, whenever I tried to wear clothing that showed a little bit of skin, I would be mocked for daring to wear clothing that was apparently only suited to those who rocked a curvaceous bod. Well listen up judgmental peeps, I stopped caring what people thought of my clothing choices a long time ago and regardless of size you can wear whatever the hell you want. Lets face it, even if I was a stylist I wouldn’t tell people that they couldn’t wear a bodycon dress because they were too curvaceous or state that a woman couldn’t wear a low cut top because she was part of the itty bitty titty parade!
But I digress, spring is about looking and feeling good and for me I have fallen hopelessly in love with the cold shoulder trend. It is largely to do with me rebelling against the conservative constraints that I grew up in but also because I used to feel uncomfortable with showing my shoulders. It sounds strange I know but for those of you who read my post ‘ skinny, call me slim‘ , I reported that I had a disorder known as Body Dysmorphia (BDD) , where I had an altered perception of my shape and size, struggling to love my body for what it was. I didn’t love my body because I was told that I was too ‘skinny’ (a word I despise), ‘looked anorexic’ and ultimately shouldn’t wear clothing that ‘showed my body’. It took me a long time to ignore the haters and I used to cover up my body because I felt uncomfortable, constantly paranoid about what people may think. But then I stopped caring and realized that I shouldn’t be afraid to show my body and I felt empowered for the first time. I have a prominent clavicle ( collarbone) which I always tried to cover up because of the bullies who tried to make me hate my body but since becoming a blogger, my clothing choices have reflected the change in my attitudes towards my own body and that is someone who couldn’t give a flying f**k about what you think.
So I ask you this, will you wear a trend that makes you feel empowered, even if it is out of your comfort zone? Will you show off your small breasts or large bum and not give a flying hoot about the comments you may receive? Chances are by embracing the body you have and highlighting a feature that you may have felt uncomfortable exposing in the past- i.e. legs/neck ect, you will be more body positive and feel grateful for the body you have regardless of shape and size. I have already accepted and learnt to love my small breasts and while the rest of the body is a work in progress, learning to love one bit of yourself will give you the confidence to be free. Today I highlighted my collarbone and shoulders to step into spring with confidence and tomorrow I might embrace my legs, whatever you choose to embrace this spring, do it with power and positivity.
What Trend Will You Wear This Spring To Be More Body Positive?
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It’s really important that you wear clothes that make you feel good about yourself. I think off shoulder blouses and dresses suit you so well. It’s nice that you keep finding the good in everything despite what you had to go through.
What a stunning outfit I really love the colors which make me think of spring. I love maxi skirts and dresses in the summer as they make feel more confident and comfortable
I love what you’ve said about ‘you do you’. I think that’s a really important message and I have spent many years not wearing certain things because of people making judgement. I really love your top, by the way.
I adore that top on you! I’m seriously lusting after it!
I love this baby blue ensemble on you. The folksy blouse is to die for. I love the fuller skirt with it as it has a vintage twist.. and I love anything vintage. I liking the pink trend popular for spring/summer this year and will be sporting a pale pink 50’s vintage dress in all its glory.It makes me feel great every time.
Totally agree about wearing what you like to wear but when I am bored I love getting on trends to make my outfits interesting. I love the monochrome vibe in this outfits and that belt is darling. I want it so badly 😊
Welcome to your season! It shows that it’s your happy time – you look glowing and the outfit looks fantastic on you – I can’t wait for the warmer days and lighter evenings too!
It is so important for us to be able to feel good about ourselves. You look amazing in that outfit 🙂
I love Spring and Autumn! Think I prefer happy mediums. 🙂 love the blue midi skirt! That outfit is stunning! x
I love this look on you – it’s perfect for spring time! x
You look glorious honey, I toonhave body issues. I have now legs and used to be super self conscious about it when I was younger, so much so I lived in baggy tracksuit pants, but now early thirties I still struggle but it doesn’t bother me as much anymore if it is ok with Kate Moss is ok with me x
I’m so pleased that Spring is here too it is a great season. Interesting to hear how you got your blog name. I agree we should wear what we want when we want. I love the skirts and top, perfect for Spring wear and very feminine and sophisticated.
I love both outfits! Wowzers. I didn’t know one can work blue like that, Spring is YOU!!
I love Spring, it is my most favourite season, I love the cold shoulder trend and have seen so many beautiful tops in the shops lately. I do agree though that wearing something that makes you feel good, go for what you feel good in and you will feel great. Love these outfits on you x
Ooooh gorgeous loving the blues so beautiful and folksy!
As always I adore your posts, and your outfits! These colours make my heart sing and feel all light and Springy!!! Beautiful x
This is such a cute look, and I love the way you connect what you’re wearing to how you feel about yourself because of the things you’ve been through and experienced. Your perspective is so empowering!
I love that dress more than anything! The embellishments really make it stand out!
Oh my gosh I love your outfit!! So perfect for Spring!! Just followed you on Instagram!
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I am loving the cold shoulder trend as well, it is one of my favorite looks this spring! I’m so glad that this spring is a time of happiness for you, unlike last spring. You look gorgeous in this outfit and it certainly does say spring to me.
I don’t think it will ever be able to pull off something this lovely! It looks amazing on you though. I’m excited for the lighter evenings so we can have dinner outside.
I’ve always wondered where the name “Faded Spring” came from .. and now I know! It’s perfect in every way. I’m loving this look .. the off the shoulder is a little sexy .. especially with the flowy skirt. For the longest time I too worried about what other people would think of something I wore .. but have given that up. Life if far happier that way!
I love the embroidery trend this season as it tends to be on black clothing which makes me feel more comfortable x
Really love that top and pleated skirt! Super cute! Clothes should always make us feel good about ourselves, so important!
You always look so amazing 🙂 I adore the top that you have featured, i also love the price point of Blue Vanilla. Uber affordable trendy clothes, win win x
I love your spring fashions and shades. Your style reads fun and vibrant.
Oh I LOVE this colour on you! It is truly gorgeous! I’ve never suited pale blue for some reason, I just don’t think it does me any favours at all. I think it’s important to embrace your figure, whatever your size, and be confident in your own skin. I’m still learning to take my own advice though!
What an awesome background story! I love how you came up with your blog name. So beautiful. These are gorgeous dresses! I totally love the cold shoulder trend too. Looks great on you! 🙂
Gorgeous! Love this!
This out fit does look spring like and is perfect to cheer anyone up. I love the style of the blouse.
Such a cute outfit! I agree I love the cold shoulder aka off the shoulder trend, and you pull it off oh so well.
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I am desperate for warmer weather! I don’t like my body but I figure that no one will hate or judge it more than me so can’t wait to let my skin breathe in the sun
I am glad that you chose to be true to your own self, your own body, and your own style. Good for you. I think you look absolutely stunning, in everything you put on this blog, and don’t let anyone else tell you otherwise. I have never been a off the shoulder kind of fashion diva, actually I am not a fan of my arms, but I think I should give it a try. It looks great on you! Blessings!
Spring is my favourite season! I love looking for clothes in the warmer months, I’m a huge fan of flowing tops and dresses! I’ll have to take a look at this brand for my spring / summer haul!
I really love the top! The flower detail is really pretty!
Amen to this. I always wear what I want. I basically stick to my jeans and t-shirts!
You look amazing in this. Love the sunglasses.
As a plus size girl, I can totally relate to your point of view. There are far too many “oh, no don’t wear that, it’s not for your body type” people and it should be a thing of the past already, but unfortunately it is not. As a fellow body positive blogger, I feel the need to tell you this post was empowering and so well written! Don’t let haters get in your way!! You look great!!
Kallia
http://kalliaseverydaytalks.com/
Blue is definitely your color. The trend I’m going to be wearing that makes me feel more body positive is frayed and tattered denim jean shorts. I have very thick legs and love to show them off.
Omg just loving this look!!!! I need to add more blue to my spring wardrobe!!! Such a chic color
You look fabulous Ana. You really suit the style.
I wish I had your confidence, because I still hide away and never wear things that show any more of me than I want to see.
What a gorgeous outfit! I love the blue shirt. It’s such a versatile piece to have in your wardrobe.
I love the positvity that you have with welcoming Spring. It’s a new beginning after all, and there are so many to look forward to. I love your top! The color is so beautiful and so is the design.
I love that you’ve embraced the parts of you that others have criticized. I think you’re beautiful… and offer a whole lot of positivity and inspiration to our world. Loved reading why you like spring. It’s my favorite season too!
Reading about what spring means to you brought tears to my eyes. I had no idea how deep of a meaning your blog name has. I love the off the shoulder look and light blue looks amazing on you!
Its really important that what you wear makes you feel good about yourself x
I am really bad at stepping out of my comfort zone with clothing! I need to experiment a bit more and feel empowered! xx
That blouse looks so nice on you hun – glad it makes you feel better about yourself x
I love spring. It’s a great time of year to start feeling better about ourselves, and bring more colour into our lives. This outfit sums up spring entirely for me
The blue looks amazing on you, I love that you’re embracing positivity through your spring wardrobe 🙂
Girl you are totally ready for spring! I love your top and your blue sandals 🙂
Love these skirts, especially the midi one! Pleats make me look like a happy elephant (which isn’t what I’m the most comfortable with 😉 but you absolutely pull them off. I definitely agree with ‘you do you’- let’s wear whatever WE want, not whatever others think may be good for us. This spring I’m gonna support my pastels (just dyed my hair lilac 💜), mum jeans and that 90s vibe of comfort and not giving a damn. Because I genuinely don’t, was trying to please the others for far too long, now it’s time for me to do ‘me’ 🙂 Xx
I love the saying ‘you do you’ – so powerful! I love your Spring outfit too 🙂
You look amazing. Beautiful blue dress. The off the shoulder dress seem to be a big trend this year. xx
Sounds like springtime has a good reason to be special for you. I like the colours in this outfit. Reminds me a little bit of a robin’s egg, which has always been a favourite springtime sight for me. Thanks, enjoyed reading.
good colour combinations and that good feeling stepping into spring with amazing blue. can i have a fashion class from you one day, your fashion sense is so good i sometimes wish i was a female to ge tutored by you… hahahaha
I love spring and love blue. This shirt looks perfect on you!
The blue looks beautiful on you. I’m clueless with fashion I don’t really know what to wear to make the most of me! Although I love the look of a lot of clothing I don’t envision it looking right on me and I can’t afford much either x
What a great outfit, I like the embroidery in this seasons fashion, I need to treat myself
This outfit is honestly so gorgeous and totally screams Spring to me. You look super confident and your smile is lovely 🙂 x
Welcome to spring! You look lovely, love the blue vibe!
I love the way you describe Spring, I feel exactly the same. It’s just right. You look amazing here, and I love the shades!
I am so in love with that top! I struggled for years hating my body, but after having 2 kids I think I am finally ok with it.. of course I would like to be a bit smaller, but really I like Tacos too much i think lol
I love your outfit so much. So springy.
It is very springy! I am so excited that the warm weather is finally coming 🙂
Loved that outfit. You look really cute. Really loved the post. Thanks for sharing this.
lovely outfits. I try to wear stuff that is practical but that I feel good in. I love the spring and bright clothes x
I love spring! That color is gorgeous on you! <3
xoxo,
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You look fabulous in these pretty blue outfits! I am looking to dress more feminine with dresses and skirts this season.
I really like spring as a season as well since it is just the right temperature and not uncomfortable. I think you found some cute spring fashion choices and they suit you well. Being body positive is wonderful.
This is getting me so excited for spring! I love that skirt and top combo!
What a gorgeous outfit – the colours really suit you x
I love both outfits, blue is one of my favourite colours this season and it looks incredible on you. I love what you’ve written and that you’re embracing your body, screw any haters – you’re amazing! 🙂 x
Another stunning look and another beautifully written post! I think this Spring I will be a little more daring and wear more dresses without tights. I tend to feel more comfortable wearing tights but sometimes it is nice to do something out of ones comfort zone.
I don’t know how you do it, but you make boho so elegant. Such a pretty look on you.
Your outfits are gorgeous and I particularly love that top. It is one that can be worn whatever the weather, but particularly for Spring and Summer. I’d love it for our forthcoming trip to Portugal. And blue really suits you x
I have to say that every time I see you, that you wear the most incredible outfits. You look stunning. I don’t know that I have any particular pair of clothes that make me feel empowered. I do like to wear a suit now and again, but it’s not my regular wear.
Beautiful hue of blue. Love the way you style your outfits. The fact that your choices reflect your perspective on fashion and life really makes your fashion blog a must read. Great post:)
Love that blouse and how you matched it in both outfits! I agree with you, we have to be confident with ourselves, style is something grows also from our souls, not only from fashion trends!
I also remember the struggles from when I was growing up and the issues I used to have with finding the right style and clothes, especially that I was the only other girl in a class full of boys, in highschool. I am still searching for my style to be honest and because of that most of the days I just wear whatever I can find in my wardrobe. That’s probably because I am not yet body confidence…
off shoulder style top suits you so much ana, loving the stripes with the embroidery!
I love the blue vanilla website. I’m hoping to step out of my comfort zone and where shorts this summer
You look absolutely gorgeous as always.
I am loving this look on you! One spring trend I would like to attempt is the cold shoulder look. I have never tried this look but feel like it might be a look I can pull off and feel confident with
I am so ready for spring! That top is fantastic, I love anything off the shoulder. I also love those sunglasses! So eye catching and fun 🙂 Your outfits are always really cute!
such a gorgeous dress! you look incredible in blue babe xo, sharon
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Omg that colour on you! I just wish I could really embrace spring now and wear all these pretty clothes… Dammed British weather!
these outfits are so cute I love baby blue in the summer xo
I long ago realised that rather than following trends, I just needed to wear what suited me and my body shape. And I’m okay with that! Because ultimately, if I look good, I feel good. Whether I look cool or not! Ha ha. LOVE this off the shoulder blue top. Super cute.
The pronounced embroidery on the shirt is really lovely, you look great! Loving the belt buckle too.
I used to worry about what people would say if I wore certain things or if I didnt wear what was considered fashionable. I listen to my heart and spirit, and wear whatever what inspires me. All these outfit look beautiful in you. Great choices xx
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I totally agree with you; we should wear whatever we like, no matter what others think. Besides, there will always be people that find something negative to say. Who cares? I love your outfit! Those blue-stripes shirts – in all shapes and designs – are my favorite pieces for this Spring. 🙂
Cold/off shoulders are trending this season. Spring is all about vibrant colors and embracing ourselves in whatever we feel confident. Loved both your outfits and the way you’ve styled it!
I’ll be wearing a lot of stripes as it complements my skin tone so well. I love the top you have on. I’m still stuck on off-shoulders
I love fashion and I like looking at the latest trends, but I don’t really follow them.
I wear what I want, how I want and when I want irregardless of whether it makes my bum or tummy or boobs look big.
It is exactly as you said, you have to do you. Wear what makes you happy, that is the main thing!
I love the baby blue colour, it really suits you
Love the spring blue outfit on you. I especially like the button front skirt and the heels.
I love Spring and Spring fashions. I’m a huge fan of cold shoulder tops too, so adore the one you’re wearing.
I totally agree people should wear whatever they want and whatever makes them feel good about themselves.
Yay for Spring. I love those blue shoes – they are just so vibrant.
LOVE the outfit on you! Pinstripes and blue is so in this season and I might have just bought a huge load of it too!
This is such a lovely outfit, really suits you. I really like spring, although I really need some new spring clothes as I think I accidently got rid of mine when we moved before Christmas x
I have completely fallen in love with your top, something I wouldn’t normally go for at all.
Awh, I am in love with your outfit! Both skirts are so stylish and beautiful! Thank you for sharing your tips & outfits on our fashion Q&A https://goo.gl/Hep0lg You make the world better place 😉 With love, Anna & 4Styler team
That outfit with the midi skirt is absolutely gorgeous, I’m loving cold shoulder tops this spring x
I love the positivity in this post. You look stunning, I am trying to be more confident. Kaz x
I love Blue Vanilla, and you look stunning as always in this outfit Ana 🙂
I’m loving all the blue, and that 1st skirt is a super cute shade.
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I love that outfit on you with the longer skirt. And those shoes are adorable on you too!
I love Spring as well! It’s the best way to stay outdoors and enjoy the good weather, aside from that, it’s the time to wear comfy yet stylish clothes that’s not too revealing like in summer. I so love your outfit here, the colors are perfect for the season and wow at that off shoulder top!
I don’t follow trends, instead I wear colours and shapes which sort my bodyshape. I love my Spring wardrobe!
I always love all of your looks. But that blue top with the blue skirt is handsdown my favorite look on you. You make it look young and hip yet also classic and elegant. Perfection.
I absolutely love your outfit and your glasses are gorgeous. Definitely have me thinking of spring time
I am not a fan of my arms, but I love sleeveless clothing…so I branched out and got a couple of tank tops. We’ll see if I actually wear them!
That dress is lovely! It certainly represents the best of spring. The color is the best. I love blue dresses.
Such pretty outfits! l love wearing blue all year round but especially in spring!!
Couldn’t agree more about wearing what you like to wear. It our fashion sense and don’t waste time thinking what would other will say. I love your outfit for today! Looking so fresh and girly plus the belt add more to it.
I am loving your outfit, especially the top. I am one who dresses for me, in what I love to wear, regardless of what others might think!
Absolutely love this blouse on you, it’s just stunning! I even saw it on Twitter earlier and couldn’t wait to read this to see where it’s from! Looking beautiful as always Ana x
This light blue color suits you so well! My favorite item is definitely the flowy skirt.
Really femenine and amazing for the just awakening Spring.
I’ve always worn whatever I wanted and bucked the trend if need be. My daughter is now very independent about what she wears and doesn’t let me sway her in her decision which I love. This is a cute outfit though – I love the skirt!
Interesting to read about how you developed your name for the blog. We like the off the shoulder (cold shoulder) look but with big knockers my mummy would need a bra on which would ruin the look. You wear it fabulously!
I really wish I could wear the off the shoulder tops, but I’m not sure I can make it work with the girls. I do love the ruffle and lace trend and I’m hoping to find a top that fits me perfectly for spring.
My Mom tells me I still dress the way I did, when I was a teenager. I said, I guess I found my style early then. I always will dress how I want to, and I don’t necessarily will follow trends either.
I was eyeing those blue sandals. So cute and so summery. Blue is my favorite color after yellow. Everything that you are wearing in this post looks really good on you.
9 years ago I lost 30lbs and wow that does things to your head! It took me a few years to stop buying clothes for my “old size” and embrace the new physique. I wear whatever the hell I want to because it makes me FEEL good. I love off the shoulder tops btw so I am ALL OVER that trend!
I applaud you for fighting for yourself.
You look great in those outfits girl!
I am in love with this color combination! It feels so spring! You wear this outfit well!!
I love the opening paragraph, you have such an artistic feel to your posts. Anyway, the dress is beautiful
I like how you styled your baby blue outfits. Perfect for spring and summer. Gorgeous!
Blue is my favorite color and you wear it so well! I love those shoes and that longer flowy skirt is amazing.
The springtime is my favorite season as well, especially since I’m not a fan of unbearably hot or brutally cold weather that the other seasons entail! By the way, this outfit is fabulous. I love the embroidery on the blouse.
Spring is great. I love the outfit you are wearing
I’m with you on spring being a great time of year. I’m in Ohio, so winter is so out for me! I love your blue sandals. Super cute.
Gorgeous outfit. I love wearing colourful and bright dresses in spring.
Spring for me has always been about new beginnings, regrowth and regeneration. A chance to start again and appreciate the new life. I am also a huge advocate of dressing comfortably in what makes you happy.
This is such a cute oufit, I am loving bardot styled tops and this one looks adorable on you! xo
This outfit is SO cute. I love the blue, it really is perfect for spring.
Ah I love this, such a perfect colour for Spring. You look amazing! You have such a lovely blog here by the way, you should be proud of all your hard work! x
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That top is just gorgeous! You look fab as always lovely x
I would say that the way I dress gives people the idea of my mood for the day. I am a WYSIWYG person. (What You See Is What You Get). Dress me in casuals and I am more relaxed and laid back. If I come in the office wearing a crisp white long sleeved button down shirt, a blazer, skirt and heels, I am wanting to see results. I guess my personality shows in the way I dress, but of course, it has to be clothes that suit me and that I am comfortable with.
Spring is here and it’s time for bright and beautiful colors! Love your outfit simple and elegant.
You look really beautiful in that outfit. I could definitely use a new look!
The cold shoulder trend has gone crazy since spring, and I’m so glad it’s continued into the summer 🙂 this Blue Vanilla top looks great on you xx – Ps: spat my coffee out laughing at “itty bitty titty parade” lol!
Very stylish. The outfit suits you so good. I can see the photographer in your goggles. hehe. Nice click.
Vanilla Blue is my favorite too.