Weather in these first few weeks of spring becomes unpredictable, and dressing to liven up from the long months of winter can be a bit of a gamble.  To help out, we did some research on both spring trends coming out of Fashion Week and original ideas to create weather-versatile, sunshine-worthy outfits to help you celebrate spring in style this year.

Midi-Dresses

Mid-calf dresses have been popping up on runways and fashion blogs, reminiscent of retro fashion with less constriction than maxi-dresses.  It might seem like a frumpy trend, but a trip to lulus.com will reveal how bright and adorable these dresses can be.  Look for midi’s with an appropriate length for your height, as not all midi-dresses are created equally.  Nevertheless, having one of these in your spring ensemble is a bold and fun choice guaranteed to shout spring.

Shade is Cool

Find the pair of shades to fit your style.  Whether they be aviators, semi-rimless, wayfarers, or even circular, stop by Target or Ross and get some fun and fashionable sunnies for yourself.  You’ll be spending way more time outside (finally!), and cute sunglasses can polish off any spring outfit.

In with the Old

Play with the clothes that have made their way to the back of your closet through the winter.  Just as spring is a time of newness, you can bring your old summer shirts from two years ago back into business with some layering and accessorizing.

Spring Cleaning

If you don’t feel like wearing these previously mentioned wardrobe finds, get rid of them!  Reinvigorating your style can sometimes mean clearing out the clutter of those spontaneous Kohl’s purchases from sophomore year.  Instead of holding onto them, it’s a great idea to be on the lookout for the essentials:  about 5 rotatable new clothing options that will withstand the test of time.  This way, you won’t be feeling the need to hoard a million minor wardrobe options because you’ll have essentially streamlined your fashion choices.

Spring Scarves

Wool scarves were for winter, but bridging the gap between snow and budding flowers doesn’t mean that warmer wear should stop.  Pairing scarves with dresses and flowy shirts is a perfect look for this spring.  Flower-patterned scarves may be just the thing you need, even if it’s like writing “spring” on your forehead.  Sometimes, direct statements are the best statements.

Bold Patterns in Twos

Two-pieced pattern pairings were popular during New York Fashion Week, essentially bringing back some “hippy” style trends.  Even going so far as saying that pajama sets constitute as street wear, these two piece clothing sets are apparently in.  While wearable fashion is never as bold as what the models walk down the runway wearing, expect to see bright patterns and color pairs this spring.

Neutral is Never a No

Regardless of the brighter colors, neutral shades are still in.  Leather and generally natural shades will look lively and beautiful this spring.  The idea is essentially embellishing understated, classic tones and styles to be elegant.  Fashion bloggers call it, “Vintage Redux,” whatever that means.

Strappy Spring Sandals

Strappy sandals can be worn with jeans, skirts, dresses, leggings… you name it.  With more sun to melt the snow, finally let your toes free in a pair of sandals to fit your style.  Try also painting your nails a bright shade like Mint Green or Peach to accent the finally bright colors of the season.

Anoraks

Anowhats? Stylized, oversize rain jackets are making a splash for spring fashion this year.  They are both functional and fashionable, which is a match made in heaven.  Especially in pastel and bright colors, anoraks are the perfect spring buy.

Trends may come and go, but its always best to dawn your layers as you prepare for the bipolar spring weather of Colorado. As always, let fashion be fun and welcome the sunshine in style.