So the groundhog saw his shadow, granting us 6 more weeks of winter. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t start exploring the flirtatious spring trends of 2012!

Stripes and polka dots and florals, oh my! This spring it is all about integrating bright patterns!

Patterned sweaters in salmons, pinks, red, and teals are all the rage this year. Pass up classic sorority girl pearls and break up this contemporary trend with chunky bauble necklace such as this Kenneth Jay Lane Foiled Again Necklace. Or get creative with any of these chunky necklaces.

Make a fashion statement with wide stripes. Add oomph to your t-shirt and jeans with a big-striped jacket, pair a flirtatious striped skirt with a blouse, or wear them both! You can definitely get away with head-to-toe stripes this spring. Try out the trend with this super-affordable H&M skirt and pair it with a jacket such as this 10 Crosby striped blazer.  Additionally, dare to pair stripes with other patterns such as botanical t-shirt or a flowy floral blouse.

Your floral blouse can become a staple in your spring 2012 wardrobe. Mix and mingle your floral tops and bottoms. Just make sure you mix small and large prints to keep you from looking like a bouquet. For instance, wear a big-floral print skirt and a blouse with a small subtle print.

Lucky for us and our trouble spots, tunics are still in! A tunic should fit comfortably but it should not be so roomy that it looks like a potato sack. This spring is all about lace and crochet tunics, such as this Free People Child Crochet Tunic, which can be worn over a cami, tee, or even a bandeau if you’re daring enough. Pair it with bright pants or shorts, another spring trend.

-Emily Freeman