The Sandspur

Issue date: 3/21/08 Section: Life & Times

Spring is here! What better time to pick out a few new additions to freshen up your wardrobe? Great sales and styles are everywhere. Whether you're going out, going home, going to the beach, going abroad, or going around campus, the latest fashions are both flattering and feminine.

This season, it's out with the heavy winter coats and scarves, and in with light, flowing, empire or button-down tops. Hollister and Gap showcase these fun and flattering styles.

Vivid colors and multi-hued afternoon dresses will help you stand out, not blend in. Forever 21 has a fairly wide inventory of dresses, as do shops like Tuni's, Nicole Miller, and Thread on our very own Park Ave.

A floral patterned dress with a small contrasting belt cinched at the waist also serves to create and enhance a feminine silhouette. The little black dress can be adapted for the season by adding a pastel sweater, cute sandals and beaded jewelry.

Bright colors, big patterns, and layered dresses are also hot right now. Department stores generally have the best selection
for these trends.

Stripes are also in this season, with nautical colors prevailing as the most popular. Paired with khaki shorts and a light cardigan, you'll be ready for an afternoon of fun on Lake Virginia.

For that must-have arm candy, break out the earth toned purses! Anything light, white, cream, tan, or brown will serve to enhance your spring fashion fling. While leather is found in a lot of purses, there are fabric alternatives that are every bit as nice.

Lacoste, Dooney and Bourke, Coach, and Dolce & Gabbana have hot handbag offerings, but for the more budget - minded shopper, Forever 21 is a great alternative.

Flats continue to reign supreme in the shoe world, with many of the vivid colors they come in enhancing a simpler outfit. Wedged sandals with a straw base and contrasting top, such as those offered by Christian Louboutin will perfect any ensemble. Manolo Blahnik heels can spice up any wardrobe, whether you use them for coordinating an outfit or for standing out. Jessica Simpson's
line of shoes this season shows a great deal of promise. For the bargain hunter, many great shoe deals can be found at T.J. Maxx or Ross. Both stores buy overstocks from department stores.

What better way to show off your attitude this season than by finding a new favorite fragrance? The main idea for spring this year is to be creative and fun, and above all to enjoy what you wear. A new perfume or body splash can really set your mood, whether you spritz it on before you dress or on your way out the door. An afternoon at the perfume counter with your girlfriends can help you discover your signature scent for the season.

Most of the season's offerings are relaxed, light, and pretty. Floral scents are often popular, but not the only way to go. Focus less on what you're wearing and more on how you feel wearing it.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools