It may be hard to imagine as we continue to suffer the February cold, but spring is right around the corner. This fact was confirmed with the arrival of new merchandise creeping into the stores as of late, and before we all start to think about fall fashion, with the start of the New York shows this week, let’s recap on Spring.

As per usual, there was room for a lot of experimentation in the playful and chic Spring 2010 collections, from flirty dresses to utilitarian separates. Spring is a time to have fun with your wardrobe, but do be careful with overlapping some of the textures and patterns this year because there are a lot to choose from, and unless you really believe you can pull it off, avoid the unfortunate trends of neon color and hair bows.

Neutrals continued to have a strong presence on the runways, and you can update any item in your wardrobe with a barely-there shade: delicate dresses, tribal handbags, safari chic; even jewelery has gone natural. Your best bet is to invest in nude pumps that will go with everything, and leave the color, like yellow or turquoise, to your other accessories. The pink trend is back again and actually comes in two very different shades this season–blush pink and hot, which seems shockingly feminine when contrasted with the 80s deconstruction and black-and-white look favored by some designers. However, the majority of the collections did not forget the most important aspect of spring: color and shine. If you want to embrace your girly side, you will have that option in abundance with this seasons dresses, from the use of metallics and feathers, to the romantic draping details.

Haute Spring Trends:
- Hot pants & boy shorts
- Sheer knits, mesh and lace
- Cut-outs and slits dresses
- Draping and Ruching
- Girly frills–flouncy blouse/ruffled minis
- Ladylike Leatherlittle dresses, sharp skirts, and t-shirts
- Feathers for spring–all colors and textures
- Deconstructed leisure Suits–80s style without the shoulder pads
- Preppy or Sporty–knee socks, stripes, and academic (or boyfriend) blazers

For more of Carrie Mitchell’s style insights, visit StyleGroove.com. Image Courtesy of Elle