Before you start fretting about a new swimsuit, before you start worrying about tan lines and before you get all worked up into a sweat about frizzy hair days, lighten up. Spring has officially begun and we're all in the mood to add something cool to last year's warm-weather wardrobes. So before you get all hot and bothered, take a chill pill and consider a few of these fashion trends to update your closet:
Dresses easily flow from day to night with the right accessories. Dress down a look with pretty flats and an oversized handbag. Or, glam it up with patent peep-toe pumps and a metallic clutch.
Go Sailing - The spectator look has long been a spring fashion tradition. Freshen up traditional 'nautical' colors with bits of spring - Kelly green and yellow. Feminize masculine pieces such as the peacoat with full-bodied skirts in stripes and dots. Try a sea-worthy take on preppy menswear looks. Or go for striped espadrilles or polka-dot pumps.
The Feminine Blouse - Indulge in a romantic blouse. Look for special details including pintucks, ruffles, and shirring. Sleeve details and voluminous silhouettes look great when paired with form-fitting denim or leggings. Try a frilly blouse for modern sensibility under a career suit.
The Cropped Jacket - This season's newest play on proportion is a versatile piece. Pair with a long tunic to have fun with lengths or with crepe pants for work-worthy sophistication. The newest trench coats are shorter, too.
White All Over - Perhaps the most versatile color of all, head-to-toe white epitomizes the freshness of spring. Accent with black to create a striking contrast or pair with nautical colors for a playful look. Try a pair of white jeans with layered cotton hoodies for casual cool. All-white looks even more dressed up by red patent heels.
Flats - Flats are versatile and comfortable for any occasion. Bejeweled flats and metallic gladiators have a youthful edge and add flare. The ballet flat in all its variations is a great shoe for all occasions.
The Tunic - Pair a tunic with skinny denim or leggings for a long, lean look. Billowy floral prints and structured solids over leggings show off proportions. Chunky jewelry adds balance to slimmer bottoms. Try a floral satin tunic or belted menswear shirt over leggings or slim pants or jeans.
Metallic Accessories - From handbags to shoes, the must-have accessories for spring in silver, gold or bronze go with everything. A soft gold satchel transitions from day to night. A silvery clutch is an evening essential.
Shorts - Hemlines are rising to lengthen the leg and offset voluminous tops. Dress up shorts with a well-fitting jacket over a pretty feminine top. Or, add long, colorful necklaces to elongate layered cotton camisoles in graphic prints. Try tie-front shorts or cargo shorts for casual days; longer Bermuda styles for more polished looks.
Natural Shoes - Footwear with all-natural fabrications are the perfect transition from spring to summer. Wear the taller wedges with dresses, city shorts, and full skirts.
Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association.
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