tough

Trend Alert

Trend Alert: Tough It Out

The women who walked the runway at Balenciaga and Balmain had an attitude that said, "I'll kick your ass if you cross me."

The women who walked the runway at Balenciaga and Balmain had an attitude that said, "I'll kick your ass if you cross me." We're thinking we might try to channel that level of toughness for Spring, but styled in a slightly more feminine way, like we saw in this L'Officiel Netherlands editorial. The key to wearing it is balancing tougher pieces with more polished elements — think sharp blazers with those distressed jeans. Or, just choose one or two pieces; we don't suggest going head-to-tail punk. Here are our editor picks for tough but completely chic pieces to give your sweet wardrobe a little ass-kicking.

Shopping

Spring Shopping: Tough Ruffles From Azzaro, Marchesa, Isabel Marant, and Thomas Wylde

The spring looks filed under ruffled and frilled (Valentino's frothy tops and dresses come to mind) might not work for those of us less inclined to dress like a box of pastries, but thankfully some favorite, harder-edged designers (think Isabel Marant and Thomas Wylde) have provided a tougher way to wear ruffles.

The spring looks filed under ruffled and frilled (Valentino's frothy tops and dresses come to mind) might not work for those of us less inclined to dress like a box of pastries, but thankfully some favorite, harder-edged designers (think Isabel Marant and Thomas Wylde) have provided a tougher way to wear ruffles. In a season full of candy-colored pastels, we're especially grateful for the options above in black, gray, and teal.