Palm Springs on a warm day in early Spring, nothing compares to it! An open air lunch at yummy Las Casuelas is just the thing to recharge the shopping batteries on a beautiful Tuesday afternoon. A girl breezes by my table in a gorgeous gauze dress, strapless, flame orange at the hem and transitioning to brilliant gold at the bodice. Her red hair is up in a loose twist and the scent of Sarah Jessica Parker's "Covet" lingers faintly after she is gone. It is going to a be a great year for fashion.

Fun is what it's all about this Spring. While much of the nation has endured a horrific winter of record cold and snowfalls, the carefree spirit that dominates warm-weather climes has found it's way into the boutiques that line Palm Canyon Drive so that shopping is actually fun! Fewer designers seem to be playing it safe this year, choosing vibrant, latin inspired colors over the tried and true khaki and white that have dominated these areas. For women, there is a return to softer, feminine styles with more dresses than pants, although the long bermuda short has proved some staying power, likely due to it's versatility with dressier versions working even at the office.

Popping into Purses for Princess could not hurt, right? After all, I gave twelve bags away last year when I cleaned out my closets. Ah, so much more than purses. Breezy scarves, gorgeous costume jewelry, and fun accessories of every kind greet me. Suddenly I am grateful my husband stayed home. I'm going to be here awhile. I leave with a purse in this years trendiest color, bright yellow. Unlike the East Coast, which seems to be dominated by the incredible shrinking purse, the large, roomy tote takes first prize here and this one is no exception. My laptop might even fit in here! It has chain straps and an unapologetic presence. Of course, a wallet to go with the purse was absolutely necessary, and some new espadrilles will be next on my list, probably in a fun print.

Layering seems to be a little more popular this year, and my guess is it's due to the slightly more erratic weather we've had. Light, gauzy jackets and wraps are a frequent site, especially as evening comes on, I observe. My husband meets me for dinner at Pomme Frite, bringing me out of my ultra-girlie world as he casually strolls towards me. Tall, beautiful, hip in flat front cotton pants in a crisp white and white v-neck pullover, silk with long-sleeves. With his dark hair and tan he looks amazing in his simplicity. Brown leather

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about Spring 2008 fashion trends for affluent, warm-weather residents?
We want to hear your view. Write now!