Retro rufflesThere’s no better way to celebrate the arrival of spring—and with it, all those stellar outdoor cocktail hours—than with a flirty ruffle-trimmed sundress. However, DON’T waltz into work with a strappy number like this patterned halter from Oscar de la Renta: Anything that’s a DO for a summer barbecue is likely an office DON’T.
Pastels and ’90s neonsSpring runways were full of pale pinks, faded turquoise and a few bolts of acid brights. DO incorporate the season’s bold new colors into your wardrobe with one vivid item, like a rainbow-bright skirt or blazer such as those seen on Alexander Wang’s runway. Just wear one hot hue at a time, and DON’T try mixing a bunch of these trendy colors together—it can be blinding and not in a good way.
Biblike necklacesYou may think you DON’T need this trend, but you DO: One large candy-color necklace, like the ones seen on the Lanvin, Matthew Williamson and Louis Vuitton runways, will make any outfit seem super trendy. Seriously: One of these bad boys will make your trusty old T-shirt and jeans look like a million bucks.
Bohemian printsAnna Sui, Diane von Furstenberg and other designers whipped up sweet boho-print dresses for spring. While the easy-breezy dresses are a total DO for date night, leave the arm bands, floral crowns and leave beads at home: Too many ’60s accessories can make you look like you’re stuck in a time warp—which is a definite DON’T!
Roomy, relax-fit pantsTrendsetters will love the fresh new shape spring’s roomy harem-style pant gives them (plus, they’re a heck of a lot more comfy than those ankle-strangling skinny jeans!). If you’re feeling daring, DO try them with a slim-fitting tank and heels. DON’T wear a boxy top, sporty sneakers or piles of gold chains unless you’re into the MC Hammer look.
DO try oversize earringsWanna glam up a simple top or LBD (Little Black Dress)? Slip on a pair of shoulder-grazing chandelier earrings, but DON’T pile on any other accessories: Big earrings + big necklace + big ring = big mess.
Mix-and-match patternsDON’T be afraid to mix things up this season. As shown at the Michael Kors show, polka dots and stripes can be worn together. Just DO make sure the patterns are in the same color family.
Animal printsWhether it’s an exotic, safari-feeling top or a leopard-print dress like this little number from Lanvin, animal prints are a total DO for spring.
Cosmetic colorsWhen hitting the mall (or shopping online!) DO keep your eyes peeled for dresses and tops in pretty blush-color shades. Just like the peachy-pink powder you brush on your cheeks, clothes in this shade will light up and flatter