Eight fashion trends to wear this spring

Fall in love with the whimsical flair of this season's hottest trends

By Photos by Alvaro Goveia; Hair by Justin German; Makeup by Simone Otis

Updated November 2, 2012

fashion, trend, style, spring 2012, Judith and Charles graphic blouse, Marni polkadot skirt

Painterly prints

Abstract, bright and happy — this bold look will update any basic.

Pants, $525, Arthur Mendonca. Robert Sorrell earrings, Carole Tanenbaum. Under $100: Sweater, $88, JCrew.

fashion, trend, style, spring 2012, ArthurMendonca floral print pants

A feminine trench

This updated version of the classic coat includes flirty details like a ruched collar.

Coat, $200, Esprit. Linda Farrow Luxe sunglasses, $475, Josephson. Skirt, $134, Jcrew. Shoes, $120, Banana Republic. Under $100: Blouse, $60, Esprit. Belt, $62, Banana Republic. Vintage Louis Vuitton suitcase, Cynthia Findlay.

fashion, trend, style, spring 2012, navy trench

Anything ladylike

Rediscover prettiness in sheer lace layers. Look for soft shades, delicate fabrics and sparkling accessories.

Dress, $925, Lida Baday. Clutch, $158, French Connection. Under $100: Cuff, $95, Topaz Jewelry. Ring, $50, Banana Republic.

fashion, trend, style, spring 2012, Lida Baday sheer lace dress

A pop of orange

The season’s hottest colour is fiery, bright and bold.

Skirt, $295, Pink Tartan. Michael Michael Kors watch, $195, 1-866-733-5677. Under $100: Lauren by Ralph Lauren turtleneck, $70, The Bay. Ring, $75, Topaz Jewelry.

fashion, trend, style, spring 2012, orange Pink Tartan skirt

A romantic halter

This neckline is casual but sexy, especially on a floor-grazing maxi dress.

Dress, $198, French Connection. Flowers and flower box, Teatro Verde.

fashion, trend, style, spring 2012, French Connection halter maxi dress

A peplum waist

Fresh off the runways, this new flared shape on jackets and tops looks best worn with sleek pants and slim skirts.

Pants, $325, Pink Tartan. Under $100: Shirt, $35, H&M. Bracelet, $69, Topaz Jewelry. Shoes, $50, Spring.

fashion, trend, style, spring 2012, H&M peplum waist shirt, polka dot print

Head-to-toe safari

Pair a belted shirt-dress in an exotic print with sky-high pumps that’ll instantly make your legs look longer.

Dress, $198, JCrew. Michael Kors shoes, $168, 1-866-733-5677. Under $100: Belt, $62, Banana Republic. Bangles, $12 to $20, Topaz Jewelry. Scarves, $15, H&M.

fashion, trend, style, spring 2012, exotic safari print Jcrew dress

Graphic polkadots

Score major style points with a structured polka-dotted skirt and a sheer-sleeved blouse.

Blouse, $325, Judith and Charles. Clutch, $124, Banana Republic. Under $100: Marni skirt, $70, H&M. Ring, $62, Banana Republic. MRKT shoes, $140, Town Shoes.

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