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Stand out in bold colors this spring

Take a fashion crash course in this season’s vibrant color combinations

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Spring fashion that is bright and bold
May 3: Style editor Bobbie Thomas shows TODAY's Campbell Brown subtle ways to add green, red, yellow and blue to your wardrobe.

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updated 11:31 a.m. ET May 3, 2007

Bobbie Thomas
TODAY Style Editor

Flowers are blooming and color is booming! Spring is turning up the volume with intense brights we haven’t seen in a long time. Bobbie Thomas, TODAY style editor and author of “The Buzz” for In Touch Weekly, shows you how to mix and match fresh juicy hues for a modern burst of style.

Reds
Anchor vibrant poppy and fierce red oranges with warm mochas, chocolates, and beige. If you’re afraid that you can’t pull off a color, here’s a style secret- Start with a neutral piece as a base next to your skin, then add a pop of color with a layered tank or cropped jacket. A brown T-shirt or classic button down will not only add balance under a cherry or coral sundress, but look smart for the office and help refine something you may have reserved for weekends. Finally, fuse fire with earth by adding organic accessories.

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On Model: Kelly shirt, $49.50 JCrew.com; Flats Rucille dress, $265 Theory.com; Heather pump, $258 Coach.com; Joanna Louca hand-woven satchel, $530 kickpleat.com

Greens
Crisp greens look fresh against this season's whites, and will also compliment khakis and camels. Fall’s black patent accessories are a nice contrast against this color combo, and will transition into your spring wardrobe to add polish. Layer color on color for a vibrant look that makes solids stand out. Purple shades like magenta and fuchsia are a great match for green. A tank top that peeks through under a shorter shirt will create a flattering line around your waist, giving the illusion of a belt.

On Model: Henri lightweight henley, $248 Henri Bendel 800-423-6335; Mercer cropped pant, $99 ClubMonaco.com; N.y.l.a Rackle mini-wedge in black, $72.95 Nordstrom.com

Blues
Reinvent black basics with bold brilliant blues. Sleek white accessories will also add a sharp accent to cobalt and other indigo tones. And speaking of blues, even your everyday denim is being showcased this season in Technicolor. Love it or hate it, the 80’s are back! While a rainbow of shades is available, electric blue (and red) are easiest to wear and your best bet. Mix and match multiple bangles for an added punch of color to top off this trend. 

On Model: Cordova cardigan, $180 Reiss.co.uk; Juliette Azzuro denim skirt, $160 Jelessy.com; Miramar wedge, $280 StuartWeitzman.com

Yellows
Yield sign yellow, this season’s traffic stopping “it” color, adds sunshine to cloudy grays. From slate to gunmetal, shades of gray are a staple of many spring collections, and the day-glow bright is the perfect partner. Perk up your office attire and update a conservative suit with a splash of lemon or mustard. Vivid accessories, such as scarves and flats, are cheerful ways to work this ray of light into your everyday wardrobe.

On Model: Lux top $32 scarf $16, UrbanOutfitters.com; Sinnie trousers, $245 Reiss.co.uk; N.y.l.a Rackle mini-wedge in yellow, $72.95 Nordstrom.com

Bobbie's Buzz: I’m currently smitten with multicolored accents from Greek designer Joanna Louca. She offers a spectrum of colorful crafty chic designs. Her kaleidoscope of hand-woven handbags have a modern old-world feel that instantly mixes an international flavor to your look  ($375-$507; kickpleat.com)

© 2008 MSNBC Interactive
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