It is certainly safe to say that this winter was a tough one. With everything from blizzards to freezing rain and the threat of yet another 6 inches of snow every week, I’m sure we’ve all skipped the gym once or twice this winter. However, as spring has officially started its long-anticipated cameo, the majority of us should be packing up our bulkiest survival-wear with eagerness.

With that said, it’s only fair that we celebrate the end of winter ~ as well as tax season ~ with some gifts for ourselves! Check out the trends that are making the biggest splash early in the season.

This spring surprises us, as the reign of the girly-girl and all things soft and feminine comes into play, humming quite a different tune from fall and winter, when grunge was the look, camo was the print and oversized leather was an absolute must. Now, unthawed by sunshine, pastels enter with vigor ~ with none other than pink leading the pack. Blushing hues of reddened pinks are everywhere for spring, from clothing and footwear to intimates and jewelry. Feeling wishy-washy about pink? Try another popular pastel while you warm up, such as mint green or pale blue.

Stylized details to the cotton button-up have also been keeping it classy, thanks to the chic shift this spring brings. Collars on these classic shirts are hitting the ground running, with razor-sharp points, unique shapes, contrasting fabrics ~ you name it! A modern version of the tailored top is an effortless way to look sharp while staying on trend. Paired with a circle skirt to keep things fresh or your favorite denim cutoffs to contrast, you’ll almost never go wrong with a modern twist on this classic garment.

Quite the opposite of pretty in pink for spring is the action-packed athletic look, a trend that has been trying hard to peek its rays through the clouds in past seasons. As athletic silhouettes and functional materials continue to claw their way into stores just in time to play outside, this trend is worth celebrating, as track pants, pennies and gym shorts aren’t strictly for working out anymore. High-tech fabrics and mesh detailing, with plenty of old-school color combinations, bring a fresh new feel to spring. Whether you choose to wear them all at once or contrasting with your go-to street wear, it is certainly hard to resist when fashion encourages comfort.

So there you have it ~ a few basic trends to help you get your feet wet before the spring and summer shopping seasons truly begin to bloom. Excitingly enough, it seems as though fashion will be undergoing a significant change of pace, while still being able to maintain a little something for everyone in the upcoming seasons.

By Stacia Kindler