Black has rightfully re-assumed the mantel of the "new black" and white has always been the quintessential warm weather hue, but there's something distinctly modern about the way these colors are showing up this spring. White is especially dazzling on handbags and sunglasses or when updating wardrobe regulars like jeans or crop pants, and black is no longer relegated to evening wear. Even better, when these two classics meet, there's nothing chicer. Sweet cream skirts are festooned with black embroidery and the most breathtakingly beautiful frocks are those that marry light with dark. Go beyond the expected hound's-tooth, into polka-dots, fine lacework or a geometric swath of ivory bordering a midnight expanse. Opposites do attract.

While the sweet slip-on charm of the ballerina flat remains popular this year, the leg-lengthening wedge heel is picking up the style pace. Hit your natural stride with a pair of cork platforms or raffia trimmed espadrilles, while rustic beaded or braided leather straps keep you firmly anchored to your lofty soles. Found in chichi metallics or aflutter with florals, this particular take on the high heel distributes your weight much more evenly than the pointed version, so you can rise to the occasion.

Earthy browns, mossy greens, soft golds and muted creams are not usually the first fashion colors we think of as the vernal equinox approaches, but these subdued shades are hot in the big spring collections. In fact, you’ll find this neutral palette gracing many of the on-trend shapes of the season — in everything from body-conscious tank tops and slender crop pants to intricately embroidered full skirts and slinky evening dresses. The hues are easy on the eye, look fantastic with every skin tone and fit right in with fashion’s infatuation for all things natural.

punch up your neutrals with vibrant accents of orange or sky blue.

If there was any question that this new year is ushering in the sort of uber-femininity we haven’t seen in ages, the sheer abundance of lace trotted down the runways puts such doubts to rest. From the subtle — delicate lace openwork on a cuff or hem — to the spectacular — a black lace dress with a deep V-neckline — you’ll find this Victorian staple now offers a surprisingly modern touch. Everything old is new again, especially with a little soft stretch thrown into the mix. And don’t forget lace’s more casual cousins, crochet and eyelet. They’ll look hot keeping you cool as the weather warms.

We’ve embraced the bohemian trend of the last few seasons, and who can fault our infatuation with softer shapes, sumptuous fabrics and exotic detailing? One of the best looks coming out of boho’s eclectic mix is the tunic. This year, the classic cut shows a bit more structure — you’re just as likely to find it in cotton as silk, embellishment is a bit more spare and the silhouette is less frill and more form. Tunics are alluring and versatile — they flatter all body types and can be worn traditionally loose over capris, smocked to define your waist, or with a flirty halter style to set off those killer jeans.

As the days grow longer, grey skies reveal glints of gold and blue, and the cold ground softens with the emergence of the first buds of spring. Fashion’s finery reflects this welcome re-birth with variegated abstract designs, and sprays of flowers, fruits, and botanical beauty. Don a cotton shift in a citrusy print or a shirred silk number abloom with color and your mood instantly brightens. Perk up a purse with big bouquets or a belt with clusters of playful petals. You may not want to wait for the seasons to officially change before putting a little spring in your step.

It’s a denim renaissance. And don’t worry, I’m not advocating a return to the infamous "ensemble" of thirty years ago. No, these new choices are not meant to be worn together, but used as anchors or accents for the rest of your outfit. Of course you have a fantastic array of jeans to choose from. The newest shapes trend toward slim and sexy straight-legs, or polished trouser styles in darker washes and hot whites. The jean jacket is also getting a makeover, with cropped lengths and a lot more tailoring. Short skirts are to be expected, but you’ll also love the longer prairie lengths and some knockout fashion-forward denim dresses.

This is not your mother’s white dress shirt — but it may be your great-grandmother’s. One of our basic apparel mainstays has steadily evolved from mock masculine to unapologetically feminine. And while the detailing is pure vintage — there’s a plethora of pleats, bows, ruffles and shirring — the fabric is light and modern with stretch cottons and silk blends, so its easy to wear these frothy blouses under boardroom blazers, linen crop jackets or brocade boleros. The look is both proper and playful.

Sure, it’s been lovely wrapping yourself in the lux layers of fall and winter, but as the days get warmer and the skies sunnier, you’ll certainly want to emerge from your silk and velvet cocoon. Liberate your limbs with style and grace — no "daisy dukes" here, thanks. Choose from twill cropped-pants tailored like fine trousers, sporty calf-baring capris in comfy stretch cotton and the hippest low-rise cropped jeans. Even Bermuda shorts show a true sophistication now, with top designers putting their polished stamp on what was once maligned as a wardrobe faux-pa.

The fashion gods are smiling. This season is all about ladylike chic, relaxed elegance and best of all — comfort. You’ll find irresistible examples of this melding of style and ease in the newest dresses. Unabashedly feminine and truly wearable, they bloom with delicate prints, compliment with colors and flatter with empire waists and v-necks. The clean lines of a halter or strapless shift give you a modern debutante air. These scrumptious concoctions are made of sheer chiffon, silk, or cool cotton, and the bias-cuts and tiered hems finish things off with a flourish.