By Emily Kopec

Haven’t we waited long enough? Get inspired right here, right now, and add some spring to your open-toed step with these fresh trends.

A Kaleidoscope of Color
Designers are splashing their pieces with cheerful bright colors that look like they were just plucked from the crayon box. Sooo fresh! Pair up an orange shirtdress with a nude wedge shoe for instant chic, or choose an emerald green ruched tank with your favorite wide-leg jeans and sandals to show your casual cool. Night on the town? Instead of reaching for an LBD, slip into a Little Fuchsia Dress. Color-shy? Dabble in the trend by wearing a super-bright shoe with an otherwise neutral-toned outfit (always a hot look) or carrying a bright handbag (royal blue is very versatile). Even if you simply finish off your outfit with a vivid-hued skinny belt, you’ve just managed it pop it like it’s hot, girl.

Bright Eyes and Neutral Nails
Speaking of bright colors, eye makeup is blazing with shades of purple, blue, and green. Just a swipe of emerald eyeliner can transform an ordinary peer into a come-hither gaze, so why not try it out? Finally, neutrals ~ not to be forgotten ~ look amazing on nails (think camel and beige) against all tha striking color backdrop.

Fringe Benefits
Mix some sexy swing into your wardrobe with an unexpected piece like a fringed cardigan: I love the new long wool cardis with soft fringe on the bottom. It’s the perfect thing to throw on during those breezy spring evenings. Likewise, dresses with shimmy-shimmy fringe make a fun statement. Just make sure to limit fringe to one item per outfit!

Pretty Peasant Blouses
It’s no wonder the peasant blouse is a favorite warm-weather look with its billowy, lightweight body and easy fit. Plus it looks totally pulled together and can be dressed up or down with just about any bottom piece in your closet. Get one in a bright color for the most the updated version ~ or better yet, get two!

Stripe Hype
The classic stripe has gone a little ca-RA-zy with funky shades and widths. For example, we’ve got pieces featuring two shades and two widths of stripes (I’m loving combos of yellow with grey and even fuchsia with orange or purple!) with the wider stripe done in the more subdued color of the two. These colorful combos look genius on a cashmere short-sleeve sweater or a silk T-shirt. Another cool look is a thin-striped jersey dress cinched with a natural leather belt.

Bling Bling Gold Jewelry
Mr. T called, he wants his gold jewelry back. A flash of bold gold adds that polished oomph to any outfit. Look for pieces with bright gold metal links both small and large. (And doesn’t it go without saying that big gold earrings are always and forever fierce?) Last but certainly not least, whether if it’s gold-plated or 24K, wear it with an attitude that would make Mr. T himself tremble!

And now, the Power Pieces for the Season:

Bright-colored jeans
Envelope handbag
Cork wedge platform sandals
Sexy snakeskin
Anything ‘70s-inspired

And, as always…confidence, ladies, confidence…it’s true what they say, nothing is sexier than a confident woman!