Fashion is subjective. There’s no doubt about it.
But style, that inherent quality that separates well-dressed men and women from trendsetters, is fairly easy to recognize and define.
Luckily, designers drew inspiration from classic styles and luxurious materials when creating collections for Spring/Summer 2011.
Translation? This season, fashion and style are one in the same.
As a fashion editor and stylist, I am often asked to identify a few key trends for the season. Since it’s easy to pick out a few items that can be easily integrated into your current wardrobe — as opposed to reinventing the wheel — I have created a shopper-friendly guide to what’s hot this spring and summer.
Once you’ve made your posh picks, check back for my monthly style blog, which will offer advice on how to wear these trends, the best shapes for your body, how to integrate the latest hair and makeup trends into your everyday look and more.
Have a burning style question? Feel free to e-mail it to me at jdechambre@conleynet.com, and I will post it (and the answer, of course!) on our website in an upcoming Fashion Q&A. Or, for daily updates on What To Wear Now, follow me on Twitter, @styleb4fashion.
For now, take a look at the best spring has to offer, then pray for the thaw!

COLORS
The color palette for spring presents a confection of candy colors, balanced out with rich creams and whites. Pops of purple, kelly green and shades of blue will instantly update any outfit. The most sophisticated looks are a return to basics with pure white, cream and beige. If you are feeling daring, try neon yellow or green, or electric blue.

TEXTURES AND PRINTS
Spring and summer are all about texture, with classic pieces updated with sequins, crystals, ruffles, braided detail, color piping, shredding and peak-a-boo weaves. Patterns also up the style quotient, especially in light Houndstooth, a touch of ombre, watercolor prints and stripes. Look for patterns in muted tones, which lend a softer appeal. Lace and sheer overlays add romance, while tribal influences will make sure you stand out in the crowd.

FIT AND FORM
Dresses, skirts, shirts and even coats are draped and flowing this spring, lending an air of elegance to even the most basic looks. One-shoulder styles and crisscross backs are a tasteful way to show a little skin. Pants are relaxed fitted at the waist or hips, while shorts, skirts and dresses are all sporting longer lengths. Also look for light summer leathers in camel, blush, cream and white.

THE BASICS
Spring welcomes a back-to-basics approach to fashion, which is a welcome change from the overly embellished looks we’ve seen in previous seasons. Wardrobe staples include light and airy cardigans, cropped jackets, trench coats, fine-knit sweaters, belted-waist jackets and dresses and even Oxford shoes. Silk scarves and simple stilettos in beige are the perfect accessories to any outfit.

JUST FOR MEN
Men’s looks are running the gamut from school-boy preppy to Hamptons gentleman. Here are some of the key pieces: accessorizing with rope belts, scarves, boat shoes and pocket squares; prints in monochromatic argyle, stripes, checks and plaids; sorbet colors; shorts suits and patterned pants; light spring sweaters and vests; and deep-V T-shirts and sweaters. Fit is key, so don’t be afraid to make a trip to the tailor.
For more of spring’s hottest looks, check out M’s Spring Fashion Preview “here”.