Trends for Spring 2012

I am LOVING the odd winter we are having - the lack of snow, the warmer temperatures, the crisp, cold breezes. (Perfect for backyard Zumba). :) Sunny days such as today make me look forward to spring all the more, and of course that means a whole new list of fashion picks to oogle and drool over.

As defined by People Style Watch, here are the top 10 trends that you have to look forward to:

1. Colorblocking - This bold trend has carried over from last year and remains at the forefront of popular fashion. You can DIY or just purchase a piece that showcases it. It really encourages the mixing of bursts of color in a pulled-together, chic way. Snazzy! (Yep, I said snazzy).

2. Day Clutches - I want one!!!!!! I am still a huge fan of the envelope style clutch, and I have yet to purchase one. Day clutches are so fun because depending on their look, they can easily go from day to night, from casual to more dressy. I am a huge fan of this metallic clutch by Milly, $174.90 at Nordstrom's. It can add a little luxe to a cute t-shirt and jeans outfit or accentuate a stunning LBD. You can't lose!

3. Ankle-strap heels - Worn thick or more narrow, this dainty footwear option adds a feminine touch to your wardrobe.

4.  Mint Green - I am trying really hard with this one, but I am just not one for pastels. Nevertheless, I will not completely throw it out. In fact, I recently gave a friend some mint colored nail polish to help her phalanges stay on trend this spring. :) You can't rock them all, so you must get creative in the ways you incorporate trends. Fresh creativity - that is the name of the game!

5. Leather - It doesn't have to be black! In fact, it's better if its not! Rock the look on dresses or with mixed material tops. Of course, jackets are A-OK, too. I have kept my eye on this faux leather jacket by Worthington ($40 at JCPenney). The luscious caramel color makes it incredibly versatile. The lack of a collar also adds sleek appeal.

 6. Blue & Green Jewelry - Life on the high seas has left it's mark on popular fashion. Nautical whimsy is very in right now, so of course one "must have" the accessories to go along with it. Paired with basic, unfussy pieces - crisp white tees, dark blue denim - blue and green jewelry adds just enough pop to add interest and glam. Or, alongside dressier, yet still neutral pieces, it can really standout as it did for Eva Mendes at the Golden Globes.

 7. Florals - Florals were quite popular last year; now, the prints are getting bigger and bolder. Why not? Flowers are gorgeous! I'm jumping into this trend full force. Unimpressed by what I have been seeing in stores lately, I decided I would no longer wait for someone to create something I like; I will make it myself. So, I bought this lovely daisy print fabric and will be making a pencil skirt with it. I'm rather excited about the project and the opportunity to sew again. Stay tuned for the results!

8. Peplums - I'm covered! A few weeks ago, wanting to award myself for a hard week at work, I did a bit of shopping and stumbled across this white peplum tank at New York & Company. I was amazed at how good it looked on me and how it minimized my pear-shaped frame. Originally priced at $42.95, I snagged mine during a super sale for $8.49!!!!!! Boo yah! It totally pays to be a bargain shopper. :) Nevertheless, keep in mind that if you're gonna flaunt it, make sure you keep everything else in proportion. Pencil skirts are a great option.

9. Metallic Heels - Gold and silver shoes are like gold and silver jewelry. No matter what you're wearing them with, they pair perfectly. Treat them like neutrals with pizazz! And as far as the style of shoe, anything goes! Get a pair with an ankle strap like these by Nine West and sport two trends at once! They happen to be on sale at 6pm.com for $27.60, 60% off MSRP! (They will also pair nicely with your Milly day clutch).

10. Neon - Brace yourself! It is in every part of your closet - tops, bottoms, shoes, accessories, even makeup! Many who are brave enough to don shades of hot pink, chartreuse, and vibrant orange will take a minimalist approach. But you can go all out, making a magenta dress with simple neautral accessories you're fashion forward statement for the evening. Or, enliven a white/black ensemble with a super sunny blazer! Neon is about fun, so why not have fun with it!?

Blake Lively	Kim Kardashian

Alright folks, there you have it! 10 trends for spring 2012! They will likely carry you right into summer, too! Have fun! Be brave! Be bold! Be you! Spring, keep comin'!