Street Chic: Milan Fashion Week, Spring 2012

1. It is no secret that Southwest-inspired prints are a major trend this season, which is just one of the reasons we love the outfit on the first lovely lady above. The other reasons? We adore the way she has paired her printed skirt with just a simple white tank. This gives the ensemble a low-key feel. We are equally smitten with her edgy accessories. They give the outfit a tough, modern twist. You can make this look your own by pairing J Crew’s Cowlneck Tank ($35) with Isabel Marant’s Jia Printed Silk-Georgette Mini Skirt ($560). Then, simply accessorize with Guess’s Osage Leather Ankle Boots ($159) and some cool jewelry like Leslie Danzis’s Adjustable Snap Bracelets ($80).

2. Creating an understated-yet-chic look can be oh-so tricky, but not if you take style notes from the second lovely lady above. The key? First, stick to a simple color palette. Second, look for timeless silhouettes like a figure-flattering tea dress. Third, pick out smart, classic accessories like platform pumps, aviator sunglasses, and an envelope clutch. Inspired? You can try this look for yourself by picking up Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent’s Long Sleeve Pleated Dress ($224) and pairing it with a pair of heels like Jessica Simpson’s Colie Leather Platform Pumps ($59.99) in black. Complete the look by adding Ray-Ban’s Original Aviator Sunglasses ($139) and a cute clutch like ASOS’s Portfolio Envelope Clutch ($34.92).

3. Although denim is typically considered a casual fabric, it can be anything but casual. For proof, just look at the outfit on the third lovely lady above. By pairing cropped skinny jeans with a selection of sophisticated, on-trend pieces—specifically, a smart white sweater, an embellished belt, and patent loafer flats—she has instantly elevated her ensemble from unfussy to fashion-forward. The finishing touch? A layered necklace, which adds a feminine twist. You can make this look your own by pairing By Malene Birger’s Fasu Sweater ($430) with Siwy’s Hannah Jeans ($185). Slip into River Island’s Buckle Loafers ($52.38) and then give your look a personal twist by adding a cool belt like Raoul’s Vintage Belt($120).

4. Last, but certainly not least, we turn to Vogue Paris editor Geraldine Saglio, who was spotted out and about in Milan wearing a silky cream blouse, leopard-print jeans, and wraparound sandals. We love the way she has mixed sophisticated pieces—like her blouse—with edgier pieces like her sandals and jeans. The result is a perfect example of the cool, Parisian chic vibe that we have come to know and love from Geraldine, not to mention an ensemble that easily transitions from day to night. To create an equally stylish look, pick up Wish’s Uninhibited Shirt ($129) and Current/Elliott’s The Stiletto Low-Rise Cropped Skinny Jeans ($200) and pair them with Colin Stuart’s Braided Ankle-Wrap Sandals ($35).