If winter depression has taken its toll, take a stroll through the mall and absorb the warmth of spring. Bright colors, short shorts and even shorter skirts are lining the racks in preparation for warmer weather.
It's never too early to get ahead of the game so when spring finally arrives from head to toe you'll be as stylish as a walking mannequin.
"Jean Bermuda shorts with baggier fitting camis and short-sleeved shirts in white and grays will be the most popular this season," said Ashley Liptak, manager at Hollister, a store popular for its West Coast California look.
Bermuda shorts reach just above the knee and are the perfect length for something in between shorts and capris. Casey Collier, a sophomore biotechnology major, loves the new Bermuda shorts in both basic colors and patterns. She recommends American Eagle, who has them in plaid, and Express, who has them in black.
"They are great because during the day you can wear them with flip flops and at night you can dress them up with heels," Collier said.
According to Liptak, guys will be wearing the new commodity, sweatpant shorts. This style is complimented by the classic standard layering of shirts. Contrasting colors and combinations adds praise to the ensemble.
Leggings, made popular in the winter months, will continue into the spring according to Stephanie Kippinger, a sales associate with American Eagle. Not only are they stylish, they will keep the legs warm when the weather takes a turn for the worse.
"Leggings worn with casual dresses just past knee length are definitely popular," Kippinger said.
Stylish headbands, reminiscent of the 80's, are a trendy compliment to any outfit, Kippinger said. The wider and brighter the better, they come in all designs and colors for optimal mixing and matching. Look for styles that won't irritate the scalp, and stay away from the hard plastic that will only leave red indentations behind the ear.
Shorts and skirts are of varying lengths this season, Kippinger said. Some stores are reverting to a new kind of retro, which is a combination of flirty styles from the 50's, 70's and 80's with a modern twist.
"I think the nautical sailor look will be really popular this spring," said Laura Labert, a sophomore communications major. "The bright bold colors such as blue and even white will be in, with lace cami tank tops and the sailor styled jackets."
Pearl earrings and necklaces complete the nautical look, Labert said.
Katherine Hummell, a senior psychology major, is looking forward to shopping for professional clothing that she can be comfortable and confident with in the work world after graduation. Her favorite spring trends are the empire shaped tops with a baggy but classy fit and loose flowing arms. She will be wearing them with leggings or jeans.
"I love the empire tops because they can be dressed up or down," Hummell said. "They are long enough that they can be a shirt or dress."
For men, vests are a great in between season item, along with a basic blazer and T-shirt. Grab them while they're hot.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
