I wanted to provide you a window into spring fashion. Having just been in Paris, I took many pictures of store windows so that you could appreciate the spring fashion season not just in words, but also through images.  Parisians take great pride in beauty in all forms, and that includes the window displays of the countless chic boutiques lining many of Paris’ storied shopping districts.

Though the store windows are frequently changed to showcase current clothing and accessories, these windows provide a great snapshot into spring fashion and motifs.

For women, the spring season is one of femininity.  Softened by lace, or strengthened by minimalism, these feminine fashions would do more than make a woman look more appropriate.  They would encourage more ladylike behavior as well.  The looks are pretty, and generally more lacy than racy.  Though transparency is noticeable in some of the spring fashions, it’s typically more of an ethereal, very delicate, light and airy quality.

Spring fashion planted itself in the eras of the 1950’s and the 1970’s.  When you see something that’s softly ladylike, with fine detailing, ruffles, rounded hems, and even peplums, you’re looking at a throwback to the ‘50s.  Run to the vintage store if you will, but these current fashions aren’t cookie cutter styles from back then.  Rather, they are updated versions for a modern woman with contemporary coloring.

The 1970’s are well represented in styles based on minimalism.  Spring leathers, some perforated for lacy effect, also provide a certain degree of structure.  Beading, drop waist dresses, and suit jackets are all reminiscent of a decade no one can ever really say goodbye to.  These looks also represent a strong, serious woman.  Sometimes these looks are blended with pieces with soft femininity in such a way that you’re left with the feeling that a designer is manipulating a masculine-feminine concept.

Menswear this spring is gorgeous.  But the key thing to notice is a focus on fit.  Precision is the word that comes to mind when seeing suits and jackets that are worn close to the body and that have natural shoulders and higher armholes.  This silhouette makes a man’s posture become more vertical and helps him look more confident.  Also of note is the fashion forward approach of cuffing pants, adding weight to slim legged pants worn with thicker soled shoes.

What I think is so great about walking through Paris late at night is how the streets are quiet, and you can get a clear view of what’s in style and how the designers suggest that you may wear their clothes.  It’s also a great way to window shop without being able to buy a thing.  Later, when you know what you want to see, you can go back during the daytime and shop ‘til you drop.

Joseph Rosenfeld helps successful Silicon Valley entrepreneurs transform their self-confidence by improving their personal style.  Get Joseph’s free report that helps you know which “7 Ways Your Image Is Leading to Low Performance” at josephrosenfeld.com.