Five defining accessories for spring

The snow is melting, the mercury is rising and I’m getting that all-too-familiar itch to switch things up for spring. While some people “spring clean” their homes and cabins, I’m spring-cleaning my closet. Everyone needs a little bit of change, and spring is the perfect excuse!

As I have shared in the past, accessories are my favorite way to express style. It’s an inexpensive and easy way to adapt your wardrobe to all of the major trends. The Spring 2010 runways in New York were full of trends that are influencing accessories. Here are my favorites:

1. A floral scarf. You have to love a great floral this spring. On the runway, floral was seen on everything from Nina Ricci clutches to Roberto Cavalli wedges. A great way to adapt this trend is with a scarf. I absolutely love this Wildflower scarf from Urban Outfitters paired with a simple T-shirt and denim. Wrap it around your neck or head for a glamorous take on this classic.

2. A fringe bag. I’m obsessed with fringe! I’ve seen this trend pulled off very well when done correctly. (Please, no more than one fringe item at a time!) The key to accessorizing with fringe is making it you focal point. Try a great fringe bag as a statement piece when you go out shopping this weekend. I love Victoria Beckham’s take on the fringe bag. Trade in your heavy black tote and look like “Posh Spice” when you’re checking things off of your “to-do” list.

3. Chunky bangles. Jazz up your wardrobe with some exotic and brightly patterned accessories. Try a mix of bangles. By stacking different textures, sizes and colors, you can take part in the tribal trend. My favorite display has to be this grouping put together by elle.com, featuring designs from Louis Vuitton, Juicy Couture, Moondance Jewelry Gallery, Clever Carriage Company and Sergio Rossi. You can find less expensive versions of these tribal trends at H&M, Charlotte Russe or Forever 21.

4. Belts. Emphasize that beautiful figure with a stylish belt. A belt will draw attention to the smallest part of your waist, creating an illusion of a more slender figure. But attempt this trend with caution as it has often been used inappropriately. (Please, ladies, do not pair a belt with an already tight-fitting outfit. This draws attention to the mid-section and accentuates curves in the wrong way.) I love belts with dresses as seen here with Derek Lam’s Star Studded Wrap Belt.  Another option would be to use a belt when wearing a loose-fitted top to make your curves pop.

5. Strappy sandals. Put away your boots and let your fresh pedicure come out to play in sexy sandals. The late Alexander McQueen’s strappy sandals are the trend to try this season. Modify this trend by shopping at DSW, where you can browse the endless selection of sandals that’ll help you to put your best foot forward.

With my head-to-toe picks, you can edit your wardrobe with confidence this spring.

Like my ideas? Have special picks of your own? Comment below.