SPRING – FASHION

Spring Trend: Bermuda Shorts

The slouchy, cool-girl shorts that were all over the New York runways this season are perfect for every girl who never felt like she could pull off those cheek-baring cutoffs so beloved on Instagram (i.e., most of us). They’re ultra chic, fam-friendly, and flattering; seriously, what’s not to love?

Spring Trend: Black and White

“Spring trends” might typically call to mind Easter-egg colors and happy-go-lucky floral prints, but this season, designers put the emphasis on strong black-and-white looks (OK, there were a few floral prints, too). Appropriate to wear year-round, easy to pull off at every budget, and sleek enough to work at the office or on date night, this trend is the definition of wearable.

Spring Trend: Peekaboo Pieces

Speaking of date night, this spring you’ll have zero problem finding something sexy to wear: Daring cutouts, midriff-baring separates, up-to-there splits, and sheer fabrics were all over the runway. The beauty of this trend? There’s a peekaboo option for every body shape (and level of modesty) up for grabs.

Spring Trend: Statement Sunglasses

Want to add a runway feel to your everyday basics? Pick up a pair of spring’s OMG-worthy sunglasses. They hit the runway in every shape and size, each pair louder and more fabulous than the next. (Case in point: Google’s augmented reality glasses even took a turn on the catwalk.)

Spring Trend: Bold Stripes

If those Rorschach-esque digital prints are too OTT for your style, take spring’s big, bold, uncomplicated stripes for a spin instead. With denim, they’re all-American; with navy, they’re nautical-chic; and worn head-to-toe, they’re just plain cool. Bonus: You’ll definitely be able to wear them for seasons—even years—to come.

Spring Trend: Luxe Leather

Time-honored and fashionista-approved, a luxe leather piece is more than worth adding to your spring shopping list. Minimalistic shapes, rich colors, and a no-fuss approach to the hair, makeup, and accessories that complete the look make these investment items seem like they’re from 2013, not 1983. (And with spring clothes hitting stores in February, there’s no need to stress about the sweat factor.)

Spring  Trend: Beautiful Beading

After fall 2012’s whirlwind of brocade, fur, and embellishment, it was no surprise to see a little razzle-dazzle on the spring catwalks. You could see influences everywhere from India and the Middle East to Russia, and it made for some seriously stunning evening wear. Push that itchy, too shiny sequined minidress to the back of your closet, gals. You won’t be needing it for a while.

Spring Trend: Shorts Suits

If you buy one thing this spring, make it a shorts suit. This look was on dozens of runways in New York and is the ideal blend of “guy hot” (hel-lo, legs) and “girl hot” (Annie Hall, anyone?). They’re purposeful, versatile, and office-appropriate, and we’re betting you’ll be able to find all-star versions of this must-have at every price point come 2013.

Spring Trend: Sporty Dresses

Spring’s sporty dresses—with their flirty A-line skirts and shoulder-showcasing bodices—are going to distract quite a few dudes next season, we guarantee it. We love them because they work just as easily with wedges and high-heel sandals as they do with comfy canvas sneakers. Go all Saved by the Bell with the addition of a collegiate cardigan or letterman jacket

Spring Trend: Flats and Low Heels

Sexy ’90s pointy heels are back and have been modernized with everything from dainty ankle straps to cylindrical heels. There will always be a moment for four-inch pumps (and that moment is date night), but these ladylike heels are such a nice option to have on hand. Extra cool points if you wear them with slouchy boyfriend jeans or Bermuda shorts to brunch with the girls.