Shoes Abloom!

Here’s a shoe that redefines “spring in your step.” This was a delightfully unexpected find at the Gap. There is so much to love about this shoe -- it’s flat, comfortable, versatile, and affordable (under $60). It’ll make its debut when the polar vortex vacates and our souls thaw after this nasty winter.

The flowery pattern will transport me to an English garden, whether I’m on the concrete searching for treasures at a favorite resale shop, or trotting off to the gym for my favorite indoor cycling class. I’m excited about wearing them with everything including midi skirts, cropped pants, and boyfriend jeans.

The Shirt on Your Back

Tired of wearing puffy coats and heavy snow boots? Dreaming of days when your lovely locks don’t turn into a matted pelt under hats and hoods? Yeah, me too.

Believe it or not spring will return and when it does, my dear butterfly, you’ll want to bust out of your multi-layered cocoon. Here’s a classic item for spring -- the shirt dress.

Forget those demure staples of 1950s TV sitcoms--the 2014 version is unlikely to be accessorized with an apron. Instead you’ll find denim minis, silks splashed with mad graphics, or funky renditions with elaborate front ties that will turn you into a gift.

The flattering shape is great for every body. No matter your height, size, or body type you’ll look fabulous in this style. Fabulous prints and retro-inspired styles can be found on ModCloth.com, Mango.com, Newlook.com, Peopletree.co.uk, and Kohls.com.

So, turn off The Weather Channel, throw another log onto the fire, and browse cyberspace for your next favorite thing!

Seasonings: Samples of All Things Spring

1. Sandals that are embedded with rhinestones, crystals, or brass are among the hottest footwear trends this spring.  Glam up your shoe collection this season!
2. Extreme heels, scary stilettos, platforms, and wedges that look like small buildings on your feet are being offered by everyone from Ferragamo to Nine West to Donald J Pliner. High fashion or fetish?  You decide.
3. Super strappy sandals from Jimmy Choo, Nicholas Kirkwood, Coach, Calvin Klein, Via Spiga.  Knockoffs at earth-bound prices by Alice and Olivia for Payless, Aldo, Nine West. 
4. Cascades of ruffles like flower petals on everything: t shirts, blouses, dresses, cardigans.  Pretty, but not precious.
5. The trench: short, classic, sexy.  Think “Come Spy With Me.”
6. Utilitarian fashion: utility jackets and sporty anoraks in fabrics ranging from silk to waterproof canvas can be dressed up or down. 
7. Bold floral motifs.  Dainty prints need not apply.
8. Menswear-inspired pieces: the endlessly wearable boyfriend jacket in every fabric imaginable. Button-down shirt. Sexy fedoras--the ultimate in cool. 
9. To my mid-life sisters - just say “no” to thigh high dresses.  Sorry, but they really are for younger women who strut along on long slim shapely limbs. 
10. Deny any knowledge of the dropped crotch pant.  It’s unflattering and makes one look like she needs a diaper change.

So, what will I be wearing?

• Jean leggings with tunics and lightweight casual dresses
• Sophisticated, ladylike sheath dresses in a variety of colors and prints 
• Pencil skirts from J Crew, Banana Republic and Boden USA
• Skinny jeans
• Colorful sandals
• Cute flats in blue patent, purple patent, black patent and pewter

It's an exciting season which inspires me to be joyous, sassy, and bold.  How are you feeling today?