Stephanie Tipple

Fashion Columnist

While it may seem like spring has been happening all winter long, the force that is fashion is rolling out the trends for spring, and now is the time to start stocking up on staples and trendier items that you’re going to be seeing. Even if you are on a budget you can afford to make small updates to your wardrobe. One of the best aspects of the trends this spring is the fact that they are looks that can be pulled off with a few new pieces and a few adjustments or accessories to an outfit.

Sick of the drab greys, browns and blacks of winter-time fashions? Then bust out your most colorful pieces, such as lush greens, blues, yellows and oranges are going to be big this upcoming spring season. When it comes to colors, make sure not to do too much color at once, and try to provide balance with all of your pieces. It’s usually best to stick to one or two colors in a similar palette, or related colors.

Are you unsure of how to wear these bright pops of color in your wardrobe? Big designers showcased the use of colors in bright and impactful floral pieces – but don’t mistake this floral for your grandma’s curtains or that quilt you’ve had since you were a child. These florals are more abstract and feature large and tropically-inspired designs in wonderfully exciting colors.

While you may be stuck in classes as the weather turns warmer, you still can dress like you’re on an African safari. Safari-inspired pieces have been a big part of the fashion scene for the past few years and, with slight modifications, are back in full force. If you like a mixture of sporty pieces and ethnically-inspired apparel items, then this is the trend for you. Expect to see khaki jackets, animal prints straight from the savannah, neutral tones and looser fitting pieces that ooze comfort and style. Pull on one of these safari-inspired jackets and an animal print tee, and you’ll be off to class or out on the town in the latest in spring fashion.

Tired of miniskirts and tops that expose the midriff? Prim and ladylike is in, so you can swap your tight t-shirt for a cardigan and a hair bow. While this trend isn’t mean to evoke images of old ladies from the 1950s or Lolita fare, you should opt for more covered up and pulled together pieces in whites, soft pinks and other pastels. Putting on a loose skirt, Oxfords, a headband and a cardigan will allow you to perfectly mesh 2012 sensibilities and romantic and proper styles that will make you feel like the heroine you read about in historic novels.

When people think about the 1920s, they may think of the Great Depression and the parallels to our current recession, but another big component of this time period were the parties, glamour and styles that the flappers wore. This spring, take your style cues from the women of the 1920s with a drop waist dress, glitter and fringe that can spice up any party outfit. Revamping a plain old dress into a flappers style is simple and can be done at home. Visit your local craft store for lengths of fringe, and simply sew the fringe into layers on your plain dress and you’ve got a 1920s classic.

By: Stephanie Tipple

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