Spring is just around the corner. Just think– in a few short weeks, we’ll be able to retire the chunky knit sweaters and opaque tights that have come to dominate our wardrobes. Patio season is finally, thankfully, in sight! To celebrate, we’ve rounded out the top trends for the spring/summer 2012 season.

Spring fashion trends: Neon brights
Take your cue from the highlighter hues last seen on the runways of Chris Benz, Derek Lam and Charlotte Ronson. But be forewarned: the trend is not for the faint of heart. Zesty orange in shades of pylon and carrot demand attention, as does the not-so-mellow-yellow we spotted on the runways of Oscar de la Renta and Vera Wang. When I caught up with Rose McGowan at the Reem Acra show during New York Fashion Week, she told me she was loving all the canary looks on the runway. “My favourite trend this season is yellow on black,” she admits. “You might look like a bumblebee, but it looks great with a really strong red lip!”

Spring fashion trends: Sportswear
Maybe it’s Olympic fever starting early– designers from New York to Milan have presented collections inspired by the athletic set. But before you eagerly don your trusty yoga pants, consider that this season is all about sophisticated fabrics, refined silhouettes and mesh detailing. I like to think of Alexander Wang as the godfather of this trend, considering he’s the designer that made it okay to wear high heels with harem sweatpants. But, if you need more inspiration, simply look to Rag & Bone and Marc by Marc Jacobs.

Spring fashion trends: The roaring ’20s
This season, we’ll be channeling Daisy Buchanen in the amazing flapper style pieces last seen on runways of Gucci, Marc Jacobs, Carolina Herrera and Etro. Get into the mood by picking up a copy of Amos Towles Rules of Civility, which will have you yearning for jazz bars and gin joints. Added bonus: Not only is the drop waist flattering on most body types, but it’s also surprisingly functional—consider it the go-to style if you plan to eat a big meal.

Check out more spring fashion trends…

Spring Fashion Trend: Crunch Time
Don’t worry ladies, I’m as dismayed about this one as you are. For some reason, designers have decided that the time to show a little midsection is now (quel horror!) Acne, Aquilano.Rimondi and Emilio Pucci all put crop tops on the runway, but unless you have cheese-grater abs I’m willing to bet this is one trend you won’t be dipping your toe into.

Spring Fashion Trend: Flower Power
Graphic florals are ubiquitous on the runway, so if you’re going to invest in a piece, this is definitely the trend to go for. Say goodbye to winter with a pair of watercolour floral leggings from Cynthia Rowley or one of Joseph Altuzarra’s edgy flower-paneled leather LWD’s. Or, support homegrown designer Erdem Moralioglu by indulging in one of his ladylike spring bloom frocks.

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