by Debbie Lester

Created on: March 15, 2009   Last Updated: July 09, 2011

Spring is in the air! It is the season of life and renewal. It's time to do some spring cleaning in your closet and add some new spring fashions fresh off the catwalk. Today's woman wants to show the world that she is confident, radiant and in charge. The 2009 spring/summer collections are just what the doctor ordered. Colors, style, fashion, accessories, you'll find it all this year.

Spring Colors

The colors of 2009 are serene and casual. From shades of ecru and white to minty greens, peaches and the blues of the ocean. The color palette this season has very nature inspired overtones. It is very earthy with muted and subdued shades of color. Some designers have used these base colors, while adding "pops" of bright, brilliant colors to make them stand out.

Spring Patterns

Patterns on the runways for spring included everything from geometric prints to butterfly motifs. The choices seemed to have a lot of far eastern inspiration. The east has long exemplified the ideas of peace and tranquility and the patterns of the season reflect that in their simple, elegant styles. Shapes and common objects on backgrounds of exotic colors in reds, blues, and greens.

Spring Accessories

The accessories from the new lines included hats, scarves or hair accessories like the pony tail tubes from Louis Vuitton. Strappy heels and fetish inspired shoes, with fringing and reptile skin were among the hottest shoe trends. This year jewelry is all about making a statement. Ethnic beading, exotic stones or avant garde pieces are all choices so long as they are big and bold. Go for long strapped, drape across your body handbags or very small clutches; sometimes less is more.

Spring Styles

One of the biggest trends from the catwalks this year is the one-shouldered dress. The shoulders show vulnerability and delicacy, they are more elegant than the leg and more mysterious than the face. A one-shouldered gown will show style and sophistication whether it's in the office or a night out on the town. The woman who wears an off the shoulder dress is a woman who knows herself and isn't afraid of who she is.

Another trend from the runway is fringing. Last season the flapper dress made a huge comeback and most were bedecked with tons of fringe. This season fringing is more about how the garment moves. When choosing items with fringes, you want fabrics that shimmy and shine and don't clump unattractively. The body needs to move with grace and allure. Giving off the image of confidence.

Add a little luxury to your wardrobe this season with Grecian draping in inky colors and soft pastels. Draping tends to flatter all figures and body types. It makes a gown seem to flow and ebb like the ocean.

The fashion trends of 2009 will make today's urban woman look like a goddess. She will be sophisticated and elegant, with soft earthy colors and flowing silhouettes. Spring has sprung and it's time to clean out the closet. When you update your wardrobe this season remember there are a few things you just can't do without.

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