Runway: Daytime dresses run the gamut from wildly printed wrap dresses to short knit miniskirts.

Reality: You can give current trends a nod by opting for great prints and updated touches (like a wide belt).For work, choose these career options:




Runway: Teensy little shorts -- some so tight and tiny they looked like panties -- appear up on the runway.

Reality: Shorts lose their "for tourists only" status and make a comeback in both short and longer lengths.

Longer-length shorts -- a.k.a. bermudas, walking shorts, skimmers -- look best in a slim cut (beware cuffs: they add weight). Anything too full and knee-length will add lots of heft around the hips, where most women can least afford it. With a matching jacket, the bermuda short can go to to work.

Make sure you don't ruin the casual-dress vibe of shorts with a shoe that's too dainty or dressy: a chunky platform, ballerina flat or simple thong sandal works better than a stiletto.

Runway: Blooms are a perennial spring fave, but this season they come in fun sizes and colors.

Reality: To look modern, you need to pass on the ditsy little prints and go for something bright and bold, like hot pink or bright blue; graphic black and white floral prints are great, too. Floral embellisments don't have to just be in a print; look for flower embellishment, tone-on-tone embroidery and accessories, too.



Runway: Normally tame accessories like wide belts and pumps take on shine with patent.

Reality: Black patent -- either in a wide belt or clutch bag -- is the easiest to wear. Bright patent pieces add plenty of pop -- orange, bright blue, red -- so pair them with something equally strong like graphic black and white outfits.

Runway: Slim pants pair with voluminous tops for a full-over-skinny look.

Reality: Slim -- not super-skinny -- pants and jeans are still hot for spring. Pair them with longer tunic-length tops or swingy jackets.



Runway: Chunky, bright bangles accessorize everything!

Reality: Mix colors and materials -- gold, patent -- to keep the look strong, but playful.