Fashion-able: Mint is the new black.

If you’re anything like us, you’re sick of the sea of black winter coats and are ready to re-inject some colour into your wardrobe. This season, pastels are back in full force and we’ve selected some spring must haves for you. Now, we can already hear Miranda Priestly in our heads, “pastels for spring – how original.” But listen, we aren’t just talking about any ol’ pastel, we are talking about the pastel of Spring 2012: mint green.

These cropped beauties from ALC ($640) offer a fresh take on the classic tuxedo pant. Pair them with a crisp white shirt for a look that can go from office to a night out. If you’re feeling really bold, you can sport it with the matching jacket.

This sheer blouse from Zara ($59.99) is another great option. We especially love the knot collar detail.

Accessories are an easy way to add a pop of colour to an outfit. This perforated leather backpack from ASOS ($60) combines seafoam green with another popular spring trend – athletic wear. We can already picture ourselves sporting this while out for a spin on our bikes.

Acne can do little wrong in our eyes, and these crinkled-crepe shorts ($210) are no exception. We especially love that they’re named after one of our favourite silver screen stars – Lauren Bacall.

 

Not sure if you’re ready to give up your beloved black and white yet? Then this colour blocked dress from Tibi ($350) is the perfect way to inject a little bit of pastel into an otherwise monochromatic outfit.

Are you on board with the pastel trend?

Fashion-able: Spring Trend Watch

Each season, the fashion-forward watch the runways. Whether sitting in the front row or behind their computer screens, they observe the latest designs from talented designers, mentally noting which pieces they can personally rock. Ultimately, from The Row’s precise androgynous tailoring to Proenza Schouler’s pajama-inspired gear, we can choose only a few pieces to add to our ever-growing collections.

We’ve outlined the top three trends that we’re digging (and digging into our wallets for) for the spring 2011 season. Use this guide to help you make your own decisions – it won’t be easy to choose! 

1. Maxis

If hemlines rise during times of depression, then 2011 should be a very happy year. That’s right, it’s time to move your micro-minis aside to make room for longer styles.

Luxe Label: Reach great lengths with A.L.C.’s Pleated Long Skirt ($693). The accordion-style maxi comes complete with an unfinished edged hem and elastic waistband. Made of lightweight woven polyester, this pleated skirt with ruffle trim is a perfect style basic that’s anything but. 

Cheap & Chic: Nasty Gal’s Pleated Maxi Dress ($78) offers a retro feel on a modern silhouette. Partially lined, this flowy dress has a full rayon pleated skirt, and cinches at the waist with a sash belt. From day to night, in this frock you’ll be a real maxi knockout. 

2. Floppy Hat

The floppy hat is not only this year’s “it” accessory, but it also the best shot you’ve got at getting street-styled. So wear this ’70s comeback head topper and smile for the camera. Bianca Jagger would be proud.

Luxe Label: For a look that’s all casual chic, try Rag & Bone’s Estelle Hat ($150) on for size. This retro-inspired accessory comes in a gorgeous tawny beige wool, with a wide brim and deep crown. The cotton lining will keep you feeling cool and fresh, while the style screams boho-chic. 

Cheap & Chic: Beat the heat in style with ASOS’s Catarzi Felt Floppy Hat ($47). Made of 100 per cent wool with a contrast band, choose this accessory in this knockout shade of cherry red. Trust us. This is one hat you’ll wear even on good hair days. 

3. Tribal Print

In past seasons you’ve gone black, but now it’s time to go back with bold colours done up in equally daring Aztec-inspired prints.

Luxe Label: Return to your tribal roots in Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent’s Long Ruffle Slip Dress ($429). For a colourful take on the tribal trend, wear this silk maxi dress in Zulu print with adjustable spaghetti straps and a ruffled hem. Done up in shades of blue and red, the punch of colour will work on so many skin tones. Try it.

Cheap & Chic: Embrace the call of the wild in Pepe Jeans’ Tribal Printed Sheered Bandeau Maxi Dress ($73). This vibrantly patterned maxi dress with multicolour stripes and shapes has a belted waist with a tassle, and as cool a ruffled hem as the dress above (but for a fraction of the price). With a bandeau-style top, this look is all fashion Aztec warrior. 

Luckily, with spring comes some killer style that will break you out of your winter blues. Two more months to go!