Spring 2007 Review

So if you're looking for ways to trim your style budget without sacrificing good looks, I suggest you be on that call (or be registered to get a copy of the recording and transcript if you can't make the call). You'll find all the details here:

If you live south of the equator and are heading into fall, you might want to review my choices for Fall 2006,

With the new season upon us, it's time to start thinking of freshening up our closets for the changing weather. But with so much to choose from, what do you need to remember when shopping for clothes?

While trends come and go, great style never goes out of fashion. So take stock of your body shape and lifestyle and pick and choose those seasonal offerings that suit you best.

Remember, NOBODY can wear EVERY style equally well, regardless of her height, weight, or bank account. So stick with the few styles that suit you well and pass on all the rest. As always, invest in classics, go cheap on trends.

With that in mind, here are some of the most eye-catching, figure-friendly looks of the season:

Safari

The safari look continues to be popular this year in everything from khaki and olive-colored clothes to traditional safari jackets. It's a fun, classic look, but be careful with those design details: no back pockets if you carry your weight in your bottom, for example, and no breast pockets if you tend to be busty. Otherwise, you'll call attention to those areas in a not-so-flattering way.

LaRedoute.com

Macys.com

Nautical

Warm weather and fun at the beach go hand-in-hand, so it's no surprise that the nautical theme continues to be strong this year. Opt for classic color combinations but be mindful of those horizontal stripes -- only put them on areas of your body that can handle the visually widening effect.

LaRedoute.com

Robert Cavalli
Bluefly.com

Flirty Florals

Flowers are very popular this season, and not just for your garden. You'll see tons of florals on everything from dresses to handbags, so if you're into "flower power," knock yourself out. Just remember the rules of proportion when it comes to prints: small prints on small bodies, large prints on large bodies.

Chadwicks.com

Roamans.com

Modern Graphics in Black and White

Black and white have been warm-weather favorites for years, and this year is no exception. But these days, there's a slightly new twist: bold, geometric patterns that catch the eye and add drama. Want to turn heads in a low-key way? Try one of these black-and-white combos.

LaRedoute.com

Diane Von
Furstenberg
Bluefly.com

Tunics

The Bohemian trend from seasons past lingers in the wildly popular tunic. This easy-on-the-eyes silhouette continues to attract because it's also easy on the body. Tend to carry a lot of weight in your torso? Try a tunic. It will cover the trouble spots in style and make you feel chic and up-to-date.

Roamans.com

Robert Rodriguez
Bluefly.com

Wide Leg Pants

While cigarette pants and leggings continue to appeal to the very thin, wide leg pants have devotees of all shapes and sizes. They balance heavier torsos, camouflage wide hips, and make legs look long and lean. Wear them as part of a monochromatic ensemble for a chic, slim look.

Chadwicks.com

Macys.com

The Shirtdress

This staple has been around for years for a few simple reasons: it looks good, it's appropriate for lots of things, and it works well on different body types. Choose a surplice (diagonal) style for a flattering, slimming effect.

MetroStyle.com

Vivienne Tam
Bluefly.com

Modern Classics

How do you re-invent a classic? By adding contemporary touches to old favorites. You'll find plenty of re-invented classics this year, proving once again that simple, clean lines never go out of style.

LaRedoute.com

Ya-Ya
Bluefly.com

Unexpected Twinsets

Speaking of reinventing a classic, you'll find the classic twinset has re-emerged in many different interpretations to become a wardrobe favorite again. New embellishments, unexpected lengths, fun colors - they all add up to a classic combo that allows you to add or subtract a coordinated piece to regulate your body temp as you see fit.

Twinset
Chadwicks.com

JessicaLondon.com

High Heels

Yes, I hear the groan of thousands of women with foot trouble cringing at the words "high" and "heel." Obviously, they're not for everyone. But for those who like and wear them, high heels are hot, hot, hot, whether they're stiletto, stacked, or wedged. For warm weather, a basic neutral or a skin-toned color in a simple style will offer you plenty of wearing options.

Stuart Weitzman
GothamCity
Online.com

Michael Kors
Bluefly.com

So those are my top picks for the season. Add a handful of pieces that compliment your body shape and lifestyle and you can look up-to-the minute whatever your age, shape, size, or budget.