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Fashion

10 ways to update your wardrobe now for spring

Some of these are staples, some are hot for 2011 and they’re all hitting store shelves now
By Catherine Franklin
10 ways to update your wardrobe now for spring

Tory Burch

The bright stuff

Colour blocking and bright tones ruled the spring runways. As appealing as vivid colours are, they are not always easy to wear, and to be honest, if they aren’t made with the best quality fabrics, brights can look cheap. If you want to go bold, stick to one solid colour. Another great way to liven up your wardrobe is with a bright bag – chances are next summer you will still like it.

Satchel, Tory Burch, $550

Tory Burch bagTory Burch

Wear white

One of my favourite pieces for any season is a crisp white shirt in a classic tailored shape. Pair this essential with everything from jeans to a pencil skirt. It’s a great investment piece that you can wear all year round.

Poplin-stretch dress shirt, Old Navy, $30

Old Navy, style, fashion, white shirtOld Navy

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New shoes

Although they’ve been kicking around for a while, the wedge heel is in first place as the sandal of the moment. What’s new? Pretty bells and whistles like tassels, bold buckles and wide straps in both suede and leather.

Santone, Aldo, $90

wedges, heels, shoes, fashion trend, Aldo shoesAldo

In print

Always popular for spring and summer, a lively print has the power to make you feel happy. This season, tribal patterns, graphic shapes, abstract florals and the ever popular leopard print will be hitting store shelves. If you are feeling adventurous have fun by mixing your favourite prints in similar shades.

Printed cobweb tee, Top Shop, $42

prints, graphic, florals, fashion trendTop Shop

Tailor shift

Designers around the world looked to the 70’s for inspiration, and Yves Saint Laurent’s influence was in the air. So it doesn’t come as a surprise that one of the most notable trends of the season is the return of a loose-fitting tailored pant with fluid lines. The waists are going higher and legs are going wider. These trousers look best with a skinny belt and paired with a fitted silk blouse.

Essential wide-leg trousers, Old Navy, $33

trousers, fashion trend 2011Old Navy

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Go the length

Seasons of bohemian influences have resulted in the recent interest in longer hems. Maxi dresses are a great option if you are going for a casual weekend look but keep them out of the office. Pair them with low heel boots, ballerina flats, and strappy sandals for spring.

Wing-print maxi dress, Top Shop, $55

maxi dress, fashion trend 2011Top Shop

Utility jacket

Military influences and trench-coat details add style to any spring topper. Choose one that is a slightly oversized and with lots of pockets. It’s best worn belted and will look great over just about anything.

Classic trench, American Eagle Outfitters, $60

trench coat, Banana republic, fashion trend 2011American Eagle Outfitters

Hem alert

Longer lengths (think mid-calf and matronly) were seen on the runways, and if you’re over the age of twenty you might want to avoid that. A better choice, and one that looks great on almost everyone, is a flirty and flowing skirt that kisses the knee. Add a belt to define your waist. This universally flattering shape looks great with both heels and flats.

Multicoloured peacock print wrap skirt, Top Shop, $65

10 ways to update your wardrobe now for springTop Shop

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Blue jeans

Say goodbye to ripped and tattered boyfriend jeans and try on a classic cut in darker denim. Paired with a simple jacket or a crisp white shirt and you are good to go through March and April.

Dreamer boot-cut jeans, Old Navy, $35

10 ways to update your wardrobe now for springOld Navy

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