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Update spring wardrobe 10 ways

Even if the sun isn't out, a brightly colored blazer lifts spirits and punches up a basic outfit.
Even if the sun isn't out, a brightly colored blazer lifts spirits and punches up a basic outfit.
STORY HIGHLIGHTS
  • You don't need to board a yacht to sport the season's nautical trend
  • Take a break from stick-skinny leggings and go for softer pants this spring
  • Pair a sequined tank with fall's dark pants and skirts and wear minimal jewelry
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(InStyle.com) -- These key pieces will get you ready for the new season!

TRENCH COAT

Why it works: With its tailored silhouette and neutral color, this timeless wardrobe staple can be worn with nearly any outfit.

How to wear it: Wear the coat open with casually scrunched sleeves, or look to the Christian Dior collection and try a cropped version belted over print dress.

PATTERNED SKIRT

Why it works: A colorful print can be matched with a variety of solid-hued tops.

How to wear it:: Pair a floral skirt with a single-tone lace blouse for a soft and feminine look or take a more graphic print and add a boxy crop top a la Dries Van Noten for a super-modern ensemble.

LACE BLOUSE

Why it works: A long-sleeved lace blouse is stealthily sexy, offering both coverage and sneak peeks of skin.

How to wear it:: Tone down the material's naturally seductive nature like Scarlett Johansson and pair the top with a high-waist tulip skirt or go all-out girlie with a tiered skirt as seen on the Dolce & Gabbana runway.

InStyle.com: 20 amazing spring fashions under $100

FLORAL DRESS

Why it works: Nothing says spring like flowers! A short, sleeveless dress in a micro-print is ladylike without being fussy.

How to wear it: Choose simple, classic accessories that pick up the print's palette, like Diane Kruger's skinny black belt and ivory quilted bag or the orange Anna Sui flats that coordinated with a citrus-hued shift.

STRIPED SAILOR TOP St

Why it works: Nautical but not preppy, a simple black and white Breton shirt is endlessly versatile.

How to wear it: Pair a sexy, off-the-shoulder version with jewel-toned shorts (any shade will work with the neutral stripes) or top one off with a sleek black blazer for an office-ready alternative.

BRIGHT BLAZER

Why it works: A sunny blazer is an unexpected way to add punch to an old-favorite outfit.

How to wear it: Let the bold hue top off jeans and a T-shirt just like Miranda Kerr or make an even bolder statement with a monochromatic look in various shades of tangerine, magenta or teal, as seen at Diane von Furstenberg.

InStyle.com: 10 under $10 -- spring beauty must-haves

KHAKI DRESS

Why it works: Its neutral tone allows a sexy draped design to transition seamlessly from day to night.

How to wear it: Think of master accessorizer Rihanna and accent the subdued shade with playful jewelry.

Find your little black dress style

SOFT PANTS

Why it works: Flowing and silky, a pair of lightweight trousers are a cool and easy alternative to a skirt

How to wear it:: Contrast the pants' loose, airy quality with a structured shirt or a strong-shouldered black sweater over a simple white top.

SEQUINED TANK

Why it works: A sparkly top in a simple shape is streamlined enough to wear with jeans for day and special enough to pair with an embellished skirt for after dark.

How to wear it::: A shimmery scoop-neck tank is a spotlight-stealer, so skip the accessories.

How to wear spring's hottest colors

FINISHING TOUCHES

Why it works: Fresh add-ons transform last season's basics, without breaking the bank.

How to wear it: Swap out a solid tote for a bright satchel, or play up your newly-bare wrists with ornate stacked bracelets. Ready to show off your new pedi? Indulge your feet with fabulous wooden wedges.

For complete spring fashion and beauty coverage, go to InStyle.com now!

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