Casual Spring Fashion

Spring fashions are on the horizon. By the end of winter we've had enough dark colors, and we are ready to burst forth with a riot of color. The good news is that there are lots of hot colors this spring. Here are some ideas on what to look for:

1. Hurray for red, white and navy: These colors are always spring-like and fresh. You can pair red and white, blue and white, or all three colors.

How to wear them: Accessorize navy and white with a pop of red in your shoes or handbag. Or go for a red blouse or jacket, but keep the rest of your outfit simple for work, in a navy pallet.

Navy and white, or red and white stripes are fun and chic. Look for striped jackets, shirts, and shoes.

2. Crayon colors: Bright bags and shoes are popping up everywhere, in crayon colors of yellow, pink, green, blue and grape. Bright bags jump off the shelves in bold clutches or large totes.

How to wear it: Avoid looking like a kid going to kindergarten by choosing your crayon colors carefully. An inspired green or yellow bag can still look business like if it has a structured shape. If you work in a conservative industry such as financial services, keep your crayon brights for casual days at the office, and stick to classy looks when meeting clients.

3. Black and white: The ever-classic black and white looks serious yet fresh. What's more, everyone can wear this combo, from fair haired women to those with dramatic coloring.

How to wear it: Jackets and skirts or pants are simple, easy ways to pair black and white for an instant look that takes you from boardroom to evening.

Buy a black cropped jacket to pop over a crisp white shirt. Add a feminine note with black and white spectator shoes, stilettos, or sandals.

You can also add a splash of color to your black and white outfit, with a sleek clutch in lemon yellow, or bright green. Wow - you'll look put-together and up to date, for office or weekend.

With spring on the doorsteps, and the latest fashion trends calling for attention, how do we develop a signature style? We each want to look unique. Here are 7 ways to develop a signature style this spring.

1. Assess your closet carefully. What's working now? What has been lying in wait for the past year or so? If you haven't worn it, it's probably because it doesn't make you look and feel your best. Get rid of it to make room for your new signature look.

2. Decide what statement you want to make. Do you want to look classy for business? Do you want to appear casual for friends or for a laid-back workplace? What do you want people to say if they were to describe your look in one or two words?

3. Look at people in the news, from movies stars and singers, to politicians. What look do they project? Who do you identify with? What do you like about their styles, that you can copy?

4. Start small, by incorporating one new element into your wardrobe. This year it could be the new bold prints, a crayon bright blouse or purse, or oversized sunglasses. Try out the look and see how you feel. Are you getting compliments, or quizzical looks? Do you feel confident, or just weird?

5. Choose one accessory that highlights your best feature, and look for unique items. For example, if you love big earrings, make that your signature piece by always wearing unusual earrings when you get dressed up. Or if you have a slim figure, build a collection of snazzy belts. Or show off beautifully manicured hands with a collection of rings.

6. Choose something you love, and wear it regularly. For example, if you love pearls, wear them every day. It could be a necklace, stud earrings, or a ring. You can wear colored pearls, fresh-water or cultured pearls, or a brooch with pearls. You'll be known for always looking classy in pearls.