SPRING FLING

Toss away the somber colors of winter. Spring arrives with a bounty of new fashions, and in particular, blinding color that will be a refreshing change from the staple darks that make up winter closets. Florals, artistic prints and the '70s all put their stamps of the new trends of spring. If color proves to be too much for you, try one of the romantic looks with ruffles, a Grecian-inspired shape or the safari trend that incorporates interesting African-inspired logos and khaki. Here's a look at some of the biggest trends for spring with some tips on how to where them.

RUFFLE MY FEATHERS

Designers took a shine to romance this season, throwing ruffles and lace onto dresses in sheer silks that float. These sheer concoctions reminiscent of lingerie give a soft focus. Look to designers such as Moschino and Stella McCartney to provide the basics of this trend. Just remember to stick to a muted palette of nudes, whites, soft grays and blush pinks. Add volume with a petticoat or pump up your look with vintage lingerie. Extend the look with loose hair or a messy bun, bare legs and cork wedges.

NEON COLOR

Your winter wardrobe will feel stark compared to the bright colors of spring. Look for neon colors such as fuchsia, cobalt, tomato or citrine. Wear an electric hue solo or pair it with other neons for a shocking look. Across the spectrum, designers from Alexander McQueen and DKNY to Marc Jacobs and Diane von Furstenberg embraced this trend. If these shocking colors are a bit too much for you, try pairing them with beige, cream or navy. And for the bold among you, choose clashing combinations to make your statement.

GOING ON SAFARI

Bold prints and patterns inspired by the Dark Continent provide the most basic of styles for spring. But this incarnation of Africa contains a chic urban vibe inspired by Princess Diana. Oscar de la Renta and Anna Sui paid homage to the grassy greens, safari khakis and dry yellows of Africa. While basics provide an easy entry to this trend, formalize your look with a maxi dress in a tribal pattern. A khaki jacket belted over any dress can add this trend to your daytime look. And tie the whole look together with wooden beads.

SECRET GARDEN

Gardens sprang up on the runways for spring. Pick a bunch of posies, roses, daffodils, pansies, peonies or orchids to adorn your favorite shape of dress. Stella McCartney and Mint Jodi Arnold fell in love with this trend. The key to pulling off this look in today's mode is to pair it with chunky cork wedges, an oversized tote and modern tailoring.

GRECIAN GODDESSES

The 1930's styles of Madame Grès were reinterpreted for 2008 in silk jerseys, column dresses and chiffon gowns. Designers such as Vera Wang and Michael Kors pieced together Grecian styles from mini to maxi. Keep your neckline bare with this trend, and look to muted tones with touches of metallics to nail it.

STUDIO 54

The re-emergence of design house Halston inspired fashion designers to look back to the Studio 54 days for inspiration. While disco hasn't returned, the silk jersey, glittery sequins and gold accents have. Just think about the ladies of Mick Jagger -- Bianca and Jerry Hall -- for inspiration for this languid style of glamour. Pile on metallic bangles and mirrored stilettos with V-necks, asymmetrical hemlines and down-to-there backs.

Contact Image Editor Susan Stapleton at sstapleton@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2909.