What are the spring fashion do's and don'ts?

With so many new trends this spring, from patents to polka dots, it can be hard to coordinate it all. Alison Deyette of stylebakery.com explains the do's and don'ts of the latest looks.

Brights
Brights are a big trend this season. The “don’t” look is fun, but a little too runway for real life. Swap some pieces for neutrals like black, so a single color pops, making a more wearable look.

Don’t: Wear a bright blue skirt, white tank, bright pink cardigan, bright yellow necklace and yellow wedges — too many brights worn at once.

Do: Replace the pink cardigan with a black cropped jacket, switch to black patent peep-toe flats. Jacket: $195, tank: $65, skirt: $245, belt: $125, shoes: $225, DKNY

After

Polka dot dress with belted safari jacket
Polka dots are a huge trend this season. Layer a casual safari jacket over this dress to tone down some of the sex appeal and make it appropriate for the office. A textured belt adds interest, and a day clutch is the perfect accessory. For nighttime look, just take off the jacket.

Do: Pair a polka dot dress with a belted safari jacket, yellow wedges and white raffia clutch. Jacket: $88, dress: $135, shoes: $175, clutch: $78, belt: $48, J. Crew

After

Before

Pattern mixing
Patterns and florals are hot for spring. Be careful when mixing patterns — you don’t want to pair two large patterns together. A more subtle print with better placement won’t compete and makes a perfect mix of patterns.

Don’t: Wear a skirt and top combination with prints that are too busy and compete with each other.

Do: Swap the skirt for one with a less busy pattern. Jacket: $98, tank: $42, skirt: $118; Anthropologie

Before

After

Wide leg jeans
Wide leg jeans are new for spring. But be careful not too wear them with a boxy or voluminous top like a babydoll top. Also, the crochet bag is a bit too much paired with the crochet trim of the top. Opt for a more fitted top to balance out the width of the jeans, for a much more flattering silhouette.

Don’t: Wear the jeans with a flowing babydoll top with too much volume.

After

Do: Wear them with a more fitted top. Top: $258, jeans: $118, bag: $178, Anthropologie

Shorts suit
Shorts suits are a chic way to dress for work this season. A black and white-striped top peeks out to give a chic, graphic look. And silver accessories complete the look.

Do: Wear black trouser shorts paired with a black jacket and a black and white striped top. Jacket: $199, top: $49, shorts: $69, clutch: $89, Club Monaco

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