Spring is in Full Bloom

What could be more appropriate for spring and summer than floral prints? Wearing garden greenery is definitely in style right now. Break out of the boring floral patterns that you may find your grandmother's sofa and get into the fun and colorful trend. Many of the floral prints you'll find in stores are fresh, light, and almost watercolor-like. Matched with jeans and simple accessories, this look will show off a more feminine side of you.

One of the great things about florals is that you can wear them for day and night. You might want to stick to pastel colored florals for day, and dramatic dark florals for evening looks.

Want a more alternative look? Try neon florals. Paired with subtle pieces, you'll stand out--in a good way.

Don't want to go that feminine? Match your outfit with floral inspired jewelry and accessories.

Any way you to, have fun with the look and ring in the spring season!















women's printed canvas ballet flats, Oldnavy.com: $19.50
painted flower earrings, Forever21.com: $2.80
cotton gladiola cardigan, Jcrew.com: $69.99
flower fields tiered top, Forever21.com: $22.80
women's smocked crepe top, Oldnavy.com: $26.50

Fashion on a Budget

Not many people have the budget to buy a whole new wardrobe this year. And with warm weather quickly approaching, many of us want to rush out to the mall to pick up the newest trends. There are several things you should keep in mind before blowing four months worth of pay checks on trends that may go out of season by next month.

1. Establish a realistic budget: Set aside a certain amount of cash before you go to the mall and don't allow yourself to go over. Be realistic and make sure you get the essentials before you pick up the latest trends.

2. Splurge on timeless pieces: It's always tempting to spend a fortune on the newest fad, but these should be the pieces you spend the least on. Trends come and go, but classics (i.e. black dress, dress pants, denim, and neutral accessories and shoes) are here to stay. Plan to spend at least 1/2 your budget on these items.

3. Always look for a cheaper version of a hot trend and don't buy the designer version unless you have to have it. Although you may have to wait a few weeks for the trend to trickle down to department stores and stores like Forever21, it's definitely worth the wait. At the time, it may seem like a good idea to buy the designer version, but always think ahead and ask yourself if you think you'll wear it in six months.

4. Don't shop with a shopaholic: When you shop with a friend who can easily drop $500 in one store, it's never a good idea. This can increase the pressure to spend more and be more impulsive. The best people to take: your mom or just yourself. Your mom will be brutally honest with you and keep you in line budget-wise.

5. Shop online: Now is the perfect time to shop online for sales and deals. Many stores have begun offering free or discounted shipping and online deals you can't find in stores. Websites like www.bluefly.com and www.ruelala.com that can help you find amazing deals on designer goods.

6. If you're not sure, come back: If you're insanely indecisive like me, you may need to take a break before you make a big (or small) purchase. If I can't decide if I want to buy something, I'll either move on to the next store and come back later, or return later in the week. I can usually rationalize whether or not it's a good purchase after I've had some time to think. Go home and make sure you don't have anything too similar and that you can wear the item with your wardrobe.

7. Look for transitional pieces: before you commit to something, make sure you'll be able to wear it for longer than a few weeks. Pieces that can be worn in the summer and then worn with a cardigan in the fall are more valuable. You don't have to be able to wear the piece all year round, but think about upcoming seasons and weather when you consider your purchases.

Ruffle Some Feathers

No matter what you're looking for this season, you'll find ruffles everywhere--and on everything! Ruffles are showing up on tops, dresses, swimwear and even shoes this season. The flirty, feminine touch is an easy way to dress up any outfit.

You don't have to be a girly-girl to wear ruffles. Pair the trend with a fitted leather jacket or a pair of distressed jeans to minimize the frill while still incorporating a feminine touch.

If you're looking for a print on your ruffles, make sure it's small and delicate so you don't look overwhelming. Try soft pastel colors with a hint of a floral print. For solid ruffled pieces, the sky is the limit. Be bold and stand out with vibrant jewel tones like emerald, lush purple, or fuchsia.

The key to this style trend is to find one piece that incorporates ruffles and match it with a more subtle piece. Here are some easy ideas:

• Find a fun and flirty ruffled cocktail dress and match it with a sleek pair of black shoes and minimal jewelry.
  
• Pair a soft, silk ruffled top with your favorite pair of skinny jeans.
  
• Dress up a casual look with a jacket or blazer that has ruffles around the neckline.
  
• Add some style to your step by pairing ruffled shoes with an evening look.
  
• Hit the beach wearing a ruffled swimsuit top paired with a plain bottom.
  

Ruffle Satin Woven Top, Forever 21: $22.80
Ocean Cotton Ruffle Blouse, Priorities at BlueFly.com: $61.00
Confetti-Dot Ruffle Bandeau Top, J.Crew: $46.00
Metallic Ruffle Sandals, Gap: $24.99
Dressy Jersey Ruffle Dress, J.Crew: $49.99