It’s that time of year to say goodbye to snow, hello spring! With warm weather and sun-filled days quickly approaching, our thoughts are turned to days at the pool, barbecues and summer vacation. As the seasons and our activities change, so do our wardrobes.
With summer around the corner, now is the chance to update our wardrobe with fresh new pieces that are in line with 2013’s fashion trends.
While it’s up to you as to how you choose to interpret and adapt the trends to suit your own personal style, that doesn’t mean we’re going to leave you short on guidance and inspiration.
If you are looking to shake things up in your closet this spring/summer, you have picked a golden year to do so. Whether you prefer to use what you already have in your closet, purchase a few new pieces or do a complete wardrobe makeover, this season’s trends are versatile enough to be workable and wearable for anyone to look and feel good.
Spring and summer 2013 are bringing an array of different trends to the department store; however, some are best left to the models on the runways. There are a few that realistically translate into real-world, day to day attire: bold stripes, ruffles, black and white patterns, crop tops, bold colors and statement accessories.

1. Stripes are straightforward, flattering, and timeless. As stated by Glamour magazine, “with denim, they’re all-American; with navy, they’re natural-chic; worn head to toe, they’re plain cool.” If you do not already have something striped in your closet, this is a safe trend to add to your list. And of course, vertical stripes are always slimming.
2. Black and white combination/ patterns are easy to accomplish at any budget and can suit a wide variety of style tastes. It is appropriate all year round and ultra-chic for day or night that’s always a clean and polished look. Black and white can also easily transition to sleek black on black or delicate white on white. Although it can be a challenge to keep spotless, white can be easily layered with different fabrics or patterns.
3. Bring bold colors into your wardrobe! Color can be an instant mood booster and this season it is dominating the runways and racks. Unsure as to how to pull off a bold color look? Try pairing neon accessories or brightly colored pumps with a neutral outfit to keep your look clean.
4. Statement accessories are the cherry on top. They are the final detailed that will complete your outfit. Statement necklace, a scarf or statement sunglasses will take a simple t-shirt and jeans outfit to a stylish, chic or modern look.

“The trend I am most excited about is bright colors!” said fashion blogger, Michelle Oliver (senior, Communication Studies). You can take an ordinary outfit and add a splash of neon color and make it pop.”
Oliver has over 3,000 blog followers at gracefulglamourgirl.blogspot.com. After attending the Lucky Magazine Fashion and Beauty conference over spring break in Los Angeles, she saw just how people were twisting trends and starting new ones and is excited to share what she learned.
“One thing people do not realize is that clothing is the best form of expression, “ Oliver said.
Whether you are choosing one trend or all of them, the most important thing is to pick one that best fits your personality and lifestyle. You always want to feel like the very best version of yourself. You should be confident in what you are wearing, so don’t pick a trend that brings any discomfort! Don’t let the trend define you; you define it!