Spring Fashion Update

Save big by thinking update instead of overhaul

By Annette Richmond

Despite several inches of snow on the ground, according to the calendar Spring is only a few days away. You know what that means, it's time to pull out our warm weather wardrobe and head to the stores for a little shopping.

The big question is what to buy? Sure it's fun to thumb through fashion magazines, but, for most of us those runway looks won't work for the office. The trick is to be fashionable without becoming a fashion victim. And all without breaking the bank.

That's where advice from an expert can help. So before you head off to your local mall, take a look at what three professional image consultants have to say about getting into the swing of Spring.

Color is everywhere this year. Particularly, lighter shades like pink, sky blue, lime green and yellow. Put some zing to your existing wardrobe with small doses of color. "Select one new color and use it to accessorize your wardrobe," says Charmaine McClaire of Los Angeles-based McClaire Group (www.mcclariegroup.com). Try a new handbag in a "hot" new color.

Spring trends include a bevy of flirty, feminine fashions. Floral prints in softer silhouettes. While this is a great way to show your softer side, it's not a particularly powerful look for the office. To avoid looking like you're off to a garden party go sparingly.

"Instead of dressing from head to toe in one frothy concoction, buy one feminine piece and team it with a clean, simple piece, For instance if you like a floral, print, georgette blouse with ruffled sleeves wear it with a basic straight, tailored skirt or pant." says Judith Anne Graham a New York City-based image consultant (www.judithanngraham.com). "

Avoid duplication by going through your closet. Eliminate everything that 1) doesn't make you look great 2) clothes that look "shabby" and 3) anything that you haven't worn in a year. That blouse that makes you washed out will make someone else look great. Donate it or take it to a consignment shop. Then, look for ways to "freshen up" your favorites.

To keep costs down think update not overhaul. "Add one or two items to your wardrobe each season that make you feel fresh and new. Look for quality fabrics and simple cuts. Include something in an "in" color, "advises Anna Soo Wildermuth of Elmhurst, IL-based Personal Images, Inc. (www.personalimagesinc.com).

Here are five ways to freshen up your Spring wardrobe:

1. Infuse color with accessories. Look chic by accessorizing with a smart, colorful leather handbag. Avoid gel purses that may make you look like you're on your way to the beach.
2. Give last year's neutral suit some pizzazz by adding a bright top in a hot new color like sky blue or apple green. Add a sweater set in a paler shade to create a softer look.
3. Try a new silhouette. Get a closer fit with a "shrunken" jacket; if you're feeling bold buy one in a print or a "hot" color. Wear the jacket over basic black or navy.
4. Add a touch of femininity with a few softer pieces in floral fabrics. Give your "fun" wardrobe a boost with a flirty dress in one of the new prints.
5. Update your makeup. After several seasons of bare lips color is back. If you buy only one item this spring choose a lipstick in a luscious color that flatters your skin tone.

Before you start plunking down your hard-earned cash, consider the image you're trying to convey. "Most people make the mistake of haphazardly assembling their image. Think about the image you want to project. Begin by observing how the most successful people in your field dress, "suggests McClaire.

Graham agrees, "Casual dress equals casual pay. Dress for the paycheck you want instead of the one you have.It's essential to always look neat, clean and pulled together."

Happy shopping!