When it comes to trend reports, you either love 'em or hate 'em, want them or despise them, or really couldn't care less. Earlier this year, we dished out the top must-have trends for spring, while newer trends have recently bubbled to the surface. For the few style statements that are actually eye-catching, intimidating thoughts of whether the piece can be successfully incorporated into an existing wardrobe then looms. We’ve dissected three trends that consistently fall onto our feeds, but tip the scale in terms of pairing difficulty. For more suggestions on how to rock three of spring’s most trickiest trends, continue reading for a splash of insight.     Culottes What once served as antiquated menswear in the late 18th century, has transitioned continuously over time as a reoccurring style trend for women. The culotte: the half-skirt, half-pants creation, is one of this year’s top trends that falls within the "cute" category but often thwarts admirers from taking the plunge to just go there. If you’re desiring to wade and brave the culotte waters, here’s some tips to achieving style envy like the pros.  

  1)      Pair culottes with heels and go for stilettos if you can. The more you can lengthen your frame with these pants, the better. 2)      Pair with blouses constructed of softer fabrics and textures. Create a desirable silhouette by tucking the blouse inward and finishing the look with a belt if necessary. 3)      For slimmer frames, billowy blouses provide further options if you’re looking to diversify and create a more distinct waistline.     Sneaker-Influenced Sandals This is not the newest, more fashionable version of the moon shoe, but when paired correctly, this comfy sandal may just rank at the top of your list as the most comfortable footwear ever. Displayed on the runways of New York by top designers, this tractor bottom sandal epitomizes the phrase “sporty chic.”  

  On a recent visit to Dallas, Belk's Fashion Director Arlene Goldstein advised to pair this new staple with “…athletic-inspired hoodies, bombers, halters, jog pants, and more polished apparel items. Sneaker-influenced sandals and sport-style booties with new-age backpacks and totes are a must!” Honing in on gym-inspired attire that transitions effortlessly into everyday lifestyle, this trend is one that our hearts and our feet adore.     Print-Blocking First you mastered color-blocking and now you have to print block. While intimidating at first, this evolving trend occurrence is one that revolutionizes with magnitude every year. From contrasting African Ankara prints to the basics of polka dots and stripes, pairing prints on prints can be a fun fashion risk regardless of shape or size.  

  When first dipping your toe into the print-blocking pond, award-winning fashion designer Nicole Miller advises to start with black and white prints paired with prints of color before transitioning into full color-on-color print-blocking schemes. We further suggest chopping up the look by donning a playful printed crop top with multi-printed bottoms. The peek-a-boo effect of the midsection is just enough division for the ultimate in print pairing -- allowing your creative wardrobe senses to unleash and run wild.   Belk image via Shana Anderson Photography. All other images via brands and retailers.