by Bridget Webber

Created on: February 14, 2009   Last Updated: September 20, 2009

Basic spring wardrobe shopping strategies should involve checking what you already have which you can utilize this coming season, and where you have gaps you can fill, by taking advantage of spring sales full of the latest designs.

What to Keep

There is allot to be said for utilizing successfully what you already have. Certain items will be timeless classics that are for keeps, as long as they fit you. Other items may not exactly hit the mark for spring fashion trends, but can be added to or altered, to make them match the latest high street fashion designs.

Spring fashion for women is all about femininity and drama. If you have a little jacket which hangs, rather than showing off your curves you can make it fit the spring trend by nipping it in at the waist with a wide belt. Neutral colored jackets can be added to with a metallic belt, or one with a vibrant color. Colorful jackets can be toned down with a white, or black belt.

Jeans are always in. They are not going anywhere. However those which are a fabulous shape, but are made from plain fabric without too many embellishments, will be the best to keep to team with springs outrageously decorative shoes.

Pencil skirts, or tube shaped skirts, are still in fashion for spring, and are worth hanging onto. Team them with colorful co-ordinates to show them off to their best advantage, and show off your ankles at the same time with a pair of strappy high heeled sandals.

Maxi dresses are in vogue, and look fabulous with springs bright and colorful accessories. They also look great with a feminine jacket on cool spring evenings.

Must Haves

Feminine shift dresses have entered high street fashion stores. They come in spring colors from daffodil yellow, to hot fuchsia pink. Those of you who are not keen on color will be pleased to know that both metallic colors, and neutral ones, such as beige or tan, are also in fashion.

Jackets that show off women's curves are a must have. They can be worn with almost anything, and liven or smarten up an outfit. This style of jacket has a definite waist, three quarter sleeves and ends just on, or rests above, the hip line. With these jackets color is the latest trend for spring, with primary colors being the favorite of some people, while duck egg blue and pale pink being more desirable to others.

The trend of printed clothing doesn't show any sign of slowing down, with subtle prints available as well as bold ones with geometric designs. These can be found on both maxi dresses, and shift dresses.

Grecian style dresses are making a comeback, to go with the latest version of gladiator sandals. such dresses often have a high halter neck, and are fairly short in length.

Bathing suits, like some spring shoes, have cutaway designs. This style suits and flatters most figures which is great news. Two piece bathing suits are in fashion, and triangle shaped tops, or halter necks, reminiscent of the 1930's and 1940's.

Men, thinking about their spring wardrobe, should know that long shorts, or short pants are in. Those in a plain, or metallic material are the most trendy, as are masculine tailored jackets which can be worn with them.

Accessories are a major part of the fashion industry and help to give an outfit an extra kick. Metallic belts, and those with embellishments such as fringes, studs and chains, matching the latest designs of shoes, are all worth considering as an alternative to splashing out on expensive outfits.

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