Hothouse Drama

Vivid African motifs, Bauhaus-inspired patterns, scarf-prints, oversized blooms and even splashes of psychedelic imagery dominate the first of the six major trends of spring '06. The large, graphic statement created with these boldly printed patterns is heavy on the dramatic flair. It's definitely a flashy look, and despite the strong floral emphasis, "wall flower" is the last term you'd use to describe the spirited women donning this style.

How to wear it well

To avoid looking like an acid trip, look for these big graphic prints in simple forms: flirty wrap dresses, A-line shifts, belted dresses, simply cut flowing skirts paired with solid tops, and blouses coupled with solid trousers, skirts or shorts. The idea is to be eye-catching, not blinding, so wearing patterned separates together is a no-no unless they coordinate perfectly or are cut from the same cloth (literally).

Take the drama to the extreme in formal incarnations of this look by choosing daring gowns cut down-to-there in filmy fabrics that scream for a wind machine. Elevate the look with a pair of sexy, strappy sandals.

Keep makeup and hair toned down and showcase your bare skin as the perfect accessory to your showy new plume.

Innocent

Detail is fused with simplicity in a totally different mode with in the Innocents. The Innocents are the polar opposite of the flamboyant persona of the hothouse; stark white is the color of choice for this look.  Even Pucci went the way of alabaster, but make no mistake, it's far from bleak; the beauty is in the details: eyelets, lace, openwork embroidery, ruffles and ribbons... the list goes on.

This girly girl style is influenced by immaculate confirmation frocks, Victorian doilies, monogrammed kerchiefs, and the virginal bride - with a playful twist.  While the style is monochromatic to the extreme, it is also highly romantic, embellished with needlecraft, scalloped trim, organza, cleanest cotton and white-on-white floral inspirations. White isn't just for brides this spring, and frou-frou isn't just for little girls; the ladies who wear these frocks are coy and coquettish, with a subtle air of sensuality. 

How to wear it well

First off, avoid spaghetti dinners when you're going Innocent.  Now, also remember that pulling off this look requires the right foundation - of undergarments! While this trend is almost exclusively manifest in dresses - of any hemline, and voluminous, curve-conscious or straight-laced - you must invest in a neutral, flesh-toned bra and panties to avoid empowering others with x-ray vision.

Complete this ethereal style with a dewy, freshly flushed complexion and petal-toned, pouty lips.

Geisha Rules

Along with the cherry blossoms, all things Asian are in this spring.  Asian beauty has been a major influence on fashion for several seasons - with Boho Chic borrowing many of its key elements from India and the Far East - but this year, Japanese artistry is making a major impression on all forms of design.

Specifically, the kimono and obi, platforms and robes are sashaying into the wardrobes of western women, bestowing the minimal elegance of Eastern style.  You'll see sashes wrapped tightly round waists replacing conventional belts, robe-like jackets, and vintage kimonos reconstructed into modern dresses. Japanese prints delicately adorn traditional silks and contemporary fabrics alike, and wrap dresses lend modishness a sense of comfort.

How to wear it well

We're talking kimono inspired - not actually from the Memoirs themselves. As with any trend that borrows from historical or cultural references, don't take it too literally or you'll wind up looking as though you belong at a costume party.

Polish off this minimal style with elaborate, dramatic hair, a muted face and fiery bold lips.

Goddesses on the Prowl

The new brand of sexy emulates Greek Goddesses with sultry flowing silhouettes, strategically placed cut-outs, bandage dresses, asymmetry and pungent punches of color. The emphasis is on draped fabrics that highlight a woman's figure. This provocative look is perfect for the style maven who craves classic sex appeal after dark.

How to wear it well

Take it easy on the cut-outs and bandage dresses - they can go tragically wrong when you end up looking like a paper snowflake or a bedraggled mummy. Go all the way with softly curled, voluminous goddess hair that cascades carelessly.

Anti-Power Dressing

In the 21st century women know they're powerful and don't need three-inch thick shoulder pads to prove it. The neo-suit is relaxed, slouchy yet subtly and strategically tailored, or alternatively pin-thin and rocker-chick chic. Textiles are rich ranging from brocade to pin striped patterns, with linen, sateen, silk and classic wool leading the reinvention.  This traditionally Western staple incorporates Spanish flair with the appearance of the (already very trendy) bolero and cropped pant (but not together).

How to wear it well

Admittedly, it's hard to go wrong with this snazzy, newly relaxed staple, but please, exercise caution with the Spanish flair by avoiding Matador look - that is, don't reunite the bolero and cropped pant unless you have a penchant for taunting bulls.

Morning-After Cool

Enter the shirt dress. Yes, we've seen it before, but this time we're being smart about it. Shirtdressing has that fabulous, sexy, tousled, borrowed-from-boyfriend look without (of course) actually being borrowed. This is 100 percent girl. You'll see it crisp white, bib-fronted, double-breasted, belted, and asymmetrically buttoned. Go ahead and roll up your sleeves and get down to business.

How to wear it well

This has the potential to be extremely dangerous - disastrous even. Think less shirt, more dress. Rail thin runway models can pull off a tiny shirt and nothing else for the sake of artistic expression, but please make sure your ass is adequately covered (at least mid-thigh is advised). Also, don't lose all shape - you've got curves for a reason - tie an obi-inspired sash, buckle a belt or cinch it somehow to make that man shirt work for a woman.

Finally, don't look frumpy! Rolling out of bed is a nice idea but not an option. Shoes, bag, accessories, hair and makeup must be spot-on and well kept to pull this off.