With spring just around the corner and the ghost of winter past finally fading away, fashionistas everywhere are eager to don this season’s finest looks.  But with dollars stretching tighter than a bad pair of skinny jeans these days, how does a girl make a decision as to which trend to adapt and which to nix?

Luckily, many of Spring 2008’s styles are not only wearable in 2009, but are still in vogue.  We’ll show you how to revamp last year’s wardrobe with a few key accessories and a bit of attitude. 

It’s Greek to me

Gladiator sandals, passed down by Grecian warriors from yesteryear, remain strong.  With such footwear being a bit on the fussier side (have you ever seen so many straps on a shoe before?), keep the rest of your outfit on the simpler side.  These sandals pair great with eyelet cotton skirts, wrap dresses and Bermuda-length shorts.  Aphrodite who?

Ships ahoy

Stars, stripes and anchors:  a seaside inn isn’t the only place you’ll spot these classic nautical themes.  A look once favored by Jackie O, nautical pieces – a navy and cream striped boatneck sweater, an oversized canvas tote bag, washed red khaki pants – look great on just about everyone. 

Juicy

Flowers won’t be the only thing popping this spring.  Bright, popsicle-inspired colors – juicy shades of raspberry, cherry, orange and banana – have made their way down the runway once again.  To keep your look streamlined and less Madonna circa 1987, pick one piece – a blouse, a bangle or even a pair of peep toe flats – and let it stand out on its own.  Don’t be afraid to mix and match:  bright colors swirl especially well with grey and khaki tones.

If you liked it then you should have put a belt on it

Grommeted, ornate, plastic and leather:  with a seemingly endless variety of styles and colors, belts reign supreme once more as the most versatile accessory under the sun.  Wide, obi-style belts were all the rage this year, marking a vast change in comparison to the skinny belt that was wrapped around every waist last year.  Whether looped through loops or riding high on the rib cage, pick your width and make it your own. 

Pretty in pink… and lilac, and peach

Pastel shades are the epitome of ladylike.  Washed shades of rose, lavender and dusty blue gain an edge when matched with a dark, contrasting color.  Try a sunny, butter colored tunic with dark denim, or a peach knit dress over black leggings. 

Remember:  a trend is only hip if it works for you – confidence is the one accessory that money can’t buy. 

-Karyn Polewaczyk

New York Bargains

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