by Nora Spero

Created on: March 06, 2009   Last Updated: March 16, 2009

Fashion Colors for Spring 2009

This spring colors are bright, bold and above all, clear and clean. Gone are the muted undertones and washed-out pastels: no more grayed-down or browned-out palettes.

Everything this year looks brighter, with a pure enjoyment of color celebrated in almost all areas of the spectrum. You can find new-looking updated fashions in your own favorite colors, just remember to "keep it clean" for today's' freshest look.

Palettes to keep in mind: Fruity colors probably top the list this season, from citrus-y yellows, oranges and greens to perky peaches, papayas and bright cherries. You'll see them in textured solids, pretty wovens and stripes and stylized patterns in jackets, tops, dresses, shoes and accessories.

Next in line are bold, deep floral tones periwinkle, marigold and bright rose. Floral patterns and accents at neckline and hemlines are also new looking this year.

Watercolors of turquoise, aqua and coral are back, with just a little more depth and intensity than in recent years. Great colors for jewelry, they can add panache to last year's sundresses in large chunky bracelets, necklaces and even belts!

Even the neutral tones are straightforward this season lots of tans, naturals and ivory, even brown is still showing combined with the newer crisp brights.

If you can't afford a new wardrobe, try brightening those neutrals with a colorful scarf, big jewelry in bright tones, and adding touches of bright color to lips and nails.

Investing in a few multi-colored patterned pieces that compliment your personal palette of favorite colors can add a lot of mileage to your closet.

Hot color combos that can give life to existing pieces feature yellows, oranges and greens, yellows, reds and blues, and browns from deep to pale.

Instead of the typical spring navy and white pairing, this year we have a new brighter blue sometimes called "delphinium." This shade is along a continuum from periwinkle toward navy, and it's being shown as a basic "pair-with" color for both the neutral browns and tans as well as with contrasting brights like orange and yellow. Bring out your Lapis jewelry, it will be perfect!

What may date your color look this year, you ask? Avoid the muddy earthy tones, purple-y pinks, soft pales and ultra- bright "day-glow" colors. This year the accent is on clear, true colors that are intense but not overpowering. Happy Spring!

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