ChickSpeak

Change is in the air, flowers start to bloom and sundresses and open-toed shoes come out of hibernation. While the breeze can be a little chilly, it’s nice to know the worst of winter is behind us, and summer is before us.

Yes, chicks, the start of Spring in a few weeks brings the hope for new beginnings.

At ChickSpeak, we believe when the temperature starts to rise and bright colors and sunkissed skin returns, its reason to wake up from our snow-comas and go shopping!

The Girls at ChickSpeak hope our picks for the new season will leave you with vivid colors and an imagination that’s full of hope for all that’s to come in the cheery months ahead:

Simply Spring Clothes & Accessories

T-Shirt, Jeans & Comfy Flats Look

“Some girls fancy themselves the “shorts and flip flops” type. Others prefer a North Face and Uggs as their go-to fashion fix. But me, I love a nice pair of skinny jeans, a funky t-shirt, topped off (or maybe I should say “bottomed off”) with a nice, comfy pair of flats. And the best time for me to break out my favorite look is, of course, when Spring rolls around. In Spring, a t-shirt isn’t too much fabric, jeans don’t make my legs hot, and I can show off cute shoes like these. Does it get any better?”-Faithlynn Morris

Leggings 

“Now that it’s getting hotter out, I try to take advantage of wearing skirts and dressed.  The problem is, often times it gets chilly in the mornings, which is why my favorite thing for spring are leggings. I especially love brightly colored floral ones this time of year because they really pop out. Although when I’m in the mood to be a little more subdued, I find that black ones with flower prints are also really fun. Urban outfitters always has a huge selection of fun tights for spring.”  -Sarah Lorsch

Sperry Rain Boots

“We’ve had plenty of Spring showers in our area and I’ve come to love my Sperry rain boots.  They have gorgeous prints, are completely waterproof and are lined with microfleece.  Dry feet = warm toes = happy me!” -Lauren Jamison

High-Waisted Skirts

“I can just picture mid April now - a light breeze with the sun shining down on me in a killer spring outfit. I can’t get enough of this look. That is, a high-waisted floral skirt paired with a light or dark washed, button-up chambray top. To add some flare to this look, add a thick, camel colored belt to your waist. You can match it with a sandal or, for a more dressy look, a cute pair of heels. Spring perfection!” -Chelsea Tirrell

Gap V-neck T-shirt   

:As spring moves in and the weather begins to warm up, there is nothing more exciting than ditching winter coats and boots for lighter, more spring-colored clothing. One of my favorite spring clothing items is the v-neck t-shirt by Gap, which comes in every color imaginable and perhaps is the most comfortable piece of clothing ever made. The soft cotton does not get distorted in the wash, and it can be paired with jeans on a colder day or shorts on a warmer day. It’s loose fit makes the t-shirt a viable option for physical activity, everyday wear, or more formal wear when paired with a skirt.” -Erin Nerlino

Jean Paul Gaultier’s Limited Edition Line at Target

“From March 7-April 11, Jean Paul Gaultier’s limited edition line for Target will be available. This designer’s infamy is so obvious, it need not be mentioned. My advice would be reserving your favorite looks online now- these items are going to go very fast. The looks are inspired by ‘Iconic Women of America’ and every style, from urban hip-hop to classy romantic, is represented. Check out Elle.com’s feature on the line for more details, and go to Target  to reserve your favorites!” -Cady Childs 

Cropped Jackets 

“Spring means flowers, and flowers mean bright colors! Floral prints are big this season, as are cropped jackets. Check out this very cute floral cropped 3/4 sleeve bomber with a ruffled collar from Forever 21. It’s a simple addition to any spring closet. Oh, and also very reasonable!” -Jasmin Charters

Strappy Heels

“There is something sensual and sexy about heels that strap around the angle or a little up the leg. While it takes a completely put-together outfit to make the shoes work, once you find the perfect mix -there is nothing that gives a chick more confidence then sporting a tall pair of strappy heels. Try wearing a high-waisted skirt and tank that are simple, and let your feet and legs do the talking.” -Lindsay Tigar

Easy Entertainment for Easy Weather

An Abundance of Katherines by John Green

“While I am a year-round reader, I’ve found that reading is best when I don’t have to be inside wrapped under a blanket and when I don’t have to worry about suffering heatstroke if I dare venture outside. It’s always preferable to me to be able to stretch my legs out on my porch ledge and feel a cool breeze as I delve into my latest novel. Last Spring, I found John Green’s An Abundance of Katherines, which you can all check out here (I highly recommend it!). Hopefully, I’ll be just as lucky with my finds this Spring. -Faithlynn Morris

Spring Awakening: A Play by Frank Wedekind 

“When this controversial play first made its debut in Germany in 1906, it closed after one night and cast a shadow over the rest of Wedekind’s career. The play deals with a number of controversial issues, including homosexuality, suicide, sexual desire, and abortion. Even though I would argue that this play is definitely not for everyone, the themes of the work are really universal. Three teenagers confront their feelings about sex and are forced to deal with the changes in their bodies and minds. The play has always reminded me of spring, perhaps because everything comes alive in the springtime and we are all “awakened” to the changing world around us.” - Katherine J. Chen

Up

“If you enjoy animation movies as much as I do, then Up is the perfect Spring movie choice. Up is a simple comedy that has adventure tight with it and was just beautifully made. The story of a grumpy old man who tied balloons to his house and started an adventure will catch you. Up had many good reviews and was actually just nominated for the Oscar of Best Picture, Animated Feature Film, Music, Sound Editing and Writing (Original Screenplay).”-Debora Biasutti

Jason Reeves

“With great songs played in an acoustic guitar, Jason Reeves is a great choice of music for your spring. Reeves, before signing his record deal with Warner Bros. Records, co-wrote the majority tracks of Colbie Caillat’s CD Cocoand he was also number one on the MySpace Folk Chart for nine straight months. My favorite music of him is ‘Someone Somewhere.’ You can buy Jason Reeves’ CD here. -Debora Biasutti

The Last Song

“I can’t wait for the release of The Last Song on March 31, 2010! Spring has a way of raising my spirits and my optimism about finding a new beau. This movie, based on Nicholas Sparks’ novel, gives me faith in this budding season that young love really is out there.” -Chelsea Tirrell

Alice in Wonderland

“With its bright colors and unpredictable ways, Alice in Wonderland just screams spring! So of course there is no better time than now for the remake of this old Disney classic to come out.  This movie gives off such a magical vibe that I cant help but love every second of it and can’t way to see Tim Burton’s creation.  Despite the fact that the movie doesn’t come out till March 5th, I have already bought my ticket and if you know what’s good for you, so will you.”  -Sarah Lorsch

Fun & Flirty Blooming Beauty

DKNY: Be Delicious Fresh Blossom Perfume

“My mom and I both love to buy perfume, and we even exchange fragrances on a regular basis. I bought two fragrances for spring, one of which is DKNY’s Be Delicious Fresh Blossom perfume. This fragrance is light, fresh, and floral, blending apricot, grapefruit, and cassis with rose and jasmine. You can even smell undertones of apple, though this is far from just another fruity perfume. It’s young, stylish, and sophisticated at the same time.” - Katherine J. Chen

Spring Nail Polish Colors

“I love when OPI releases their seasonal polish colors.  Lately I’m crushing on Pink-ing of You and You’re Such a Kabuki Queen”. -Lauren Jamison

Clinique

“It’s the perfect scent to complement the happiness that comes with Spring! The aroma of a whole bunch of different flowers all put together is refreshing and calming. I get compliments on it every time I wear it!  -Jordan Oliver

Burt’s Bees Chap Stick

“Finally the harsh cold and bitter winds of winter that have been drying out chick’s skin and chapping their lips are dissolving into Spring weather. With chapped lips from the winter and the prospect of more sun exposure in the spring, the best way to moisture is with Burt’s Bees lip care products. This line of products includes a chap stick with SPF for sunny days, a replenishing chap stick for healthy looking lips, and medicated lip balm for dry lips. Not to mention, the lip balms come in delightful flavors such as pomegranate, honey, and beeswax.” -Erin Nerlino

Bright Collection by O.P.I 

“Winter is over; the days are getting longer, the weather is slowly getting warmer.  It’s time to lighten up!  There’s no better way to do that than with a fresh coat of a cheery nail polish!  Check out the Bright Collection by O.P.I. for some attention grabbing shades that will be sure to jump start a positive spring awakening.” -Sarah Friedman

Nivea Body Sunkissed Moisturizer 

“Now that spring is rolling around, its time to show a little skin. But, many of us dread exposing the effects of hibernating all winter long; being painfully pale!  With Nivea Body Sunkissed Firming Moisturizer, you can put all your worries to rest. Not only will this moisturizer gradually bronze you up, without making you look orange, it will also make your skin firmer.  With this moisturizer you will look refreshed, beautiful, and ready for spring.” -Sarah Friedman

 Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure Polish 

“Normally, I lack so much control and grace, I always trust my nails to a professional for all my mani & pedi needs, but those professionals usually charge about half the cost of what my fiancé and I set aside for groceries weekly.  So, when Sally Hansen added a new nail product to their already fabulous (and affordable) product line, I had to give it a try! The Complete Salon Manicurepromised great things, like the five steps of a complete manicure in just one bottle (a base coat, strengthener, growth treatment, color, and top coat).  Everything promised is actually delivered! (I know: I was amazed too!)  The polish comes with a brush specially designed for those like me…I have yet to get paint on my cuticles or skin! There are 42 beautiful, brilliant colors, five of which I happily own-my favorite being a tie between Choco-Latte Crème and Shell We Dance (one I love so much I plan on wearing at my wedding a couple months).” -Jessy Garrett   

Braids

Braids are a super easy way to fix tired hair in the morning. Milkmaid updos, fishtails, long Heidi plaits remained classic go-to staples for many of the designers this past New York Fashion Week. Try braiding colored ribbon into your hair a la Oscar de la Renta’s Spring 2010 show for a very chic update! - Jasmin Charters

For Every Chick’s Easter Basket

Yankee Candles’ Beautiful Day 

“It is so easy to fall in love with this candle, simply because it is virtually impossible to tear yourself away from its fragrance. Even though I generally buy candles only during the wintertime, I made an exception this season. Everything is bundled up in this one candle: fruits, spicy herbs, and flowers. I definitely plan on lighting this candle after a hard day’s work or when I start studying for midterm exams this semester!” - Katherine J. Chen 

Jelly Belly 

“Jelly Belly jellybeans are by far the best of their kind, and always remind me Easter which in turn makes me think of how much I love the season of spring. I love the variety of flavors offered, and can eat handful after handful.”  -Fatima Meadows

Homemade Chocolate Easter Eggs

“The perfect snack for sweet cravings… and not only for Easter. They’re better than Reeses Cups, time-consuming, and make good gifts for Easter.” -Jordan Oliver

Marshmellow Peeps

“Ever since I was a little girl, my family has showered me with Peeps when Spring came around. I get really excited when I first see them in the store and buy at least five boxes. Sure, I have to run an extra mile that night, but it’s completely worth it. I especially like leaving the package open at night to let the Peeps get hard, and then eat them in the morning.” -Lindsay Tigar

Good Games for Spring’s Sporty Chicks

March Madness 

“For me, March brings one thing every year, without fail, that I can always look forward to. March Madness! The NCAA tournament has been one of my favorite forms of entertainment since I was a child. Growing up in Hillsborough, N.C., right between Duke University and UNC, basketball was not a hobby or form of entertainment, it was a religion, a way of life. Even if you’re not that familiar with the game, check out the brackets at here, and pick a night to sit down with your favorite guy friends, crack a beer, and yell at the referee. I promise, you won’t regret it.” -Cady Childs

Major League Baseball 

“I have always loved major league baseball. My mom and I used to travel to Florida every spring to catch a game or two of spring-training. I get excited around this time of year, because I know that the only sport that I keep up with is about to start.” -Fatima Meadows

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