Everything She Wants

The winter chill is here.  So the primary colors in our wardrobe, at least here in New York City, are inevitably gray and black. But we can still dream of spring and the promise of colorful tops, frocks, capris, knitwear and ballet flats to come. With its signature preppy chic flair, a bevy of vibrant shades and patterns, and of course, plenty of classic nautical stripes, Land's End has everything you want and need to get you dressed for work and play in the spring 2014 season. Here's a sneak peek. Photos courtesy of Everything She Wants .

As winter approaches, the fashion world is focused on all things spring.  And spring dresses for every occasion are one of the highlights of this bright and carefree season. Everything She Wants previewed the spring and resort dresses on parade at Muse Apparel , which can be purchased at Macy's, Lord & Taylor, Belk and Bonton. The dresses range from $118-$180 and feature fun patterns, bold colors, a variety of lengths and contemporary styles. We feel like First Lady Michelle Obama in the " Doily Lace Girly Dress " we picked out. And you'll love wearing one of these fashionable frocks to the office, out for brunch with friends, a cocktail party or a daytime wedding. Photos from Muse Apparel and Everything She Wants

After the winter that wasn't, spring is officially here. In New York City, it’s already been unseasonably warm.  So I spent the weekend shopping for cute and colorful spring tops and dresses and packing away my heavy coats and sweaters.  But if you aren’t ready to bare your legs just yet, don’t retire your boots.  A great transitional option for spring is to pair chunky boots with flirty skirts and bright skinny jeans. Ugg Baily Button Boots, available on Very.com. According to the trendsetting Brit e-commerce website, Very.com*, tried-and-true boots by brands like Ugg and Frye are the perfect way to add just the right amount of coverage and stay on trend. Mixing hard and soft looks is huge, both on and off the runway. It’s this season’s answer to pairing a feminine dress with a punk-y biker jacket.  But if the name Ugg conjures images of Paris Hilton and denim minis à la 2001, then think again. These sheepskin boots actually originated back in the 1970s...

Remember Dress Barn ? The chain was a mall staple in the shoulder-pads-lovin' 80's, but I haven't seen one of the stores lately. So it was a welcome surprise when I was contacted with the offer to let Dress Barn get me dressed for spring. After I emailed my style preferences -- an A-line cut in a dark color with capped sleeves -- I was sent photos of three dress options. My pick? This sexy secretary dress (see above photos) with a black and white polka dot print top half and gray pencil skirt bottom half ($44.98). I love that it looks like separates and it fits perfectly. "I didn't know Dress Barn was still around," my cousin commented after admiring the dress during our  Mother's Day brunch outing. Me either! Now that Dress Barn is back on my radar, I will pop in a New York City store near me . You can check out the chain's website to find a Dress Barn near you. To jump start your spring shopping spree, print out this 20 percent off ...