Style inspiration for spring

This might seem an odd topic in the middle of the coldest week this year when spring seems a long way away (I am in fact writing this from under my duvet). But I’m bored of winter now and, hey, sweetie, in fashion terms S/S 09 is well and truly here. And also, more to the point, it’s good to get ideas and inspiration...if you’re doing without a trip to buy new clothes you have to be a little more imaginative. It also he1lps to be willing to think outside of season and buy the beautiful sheer chiffon top you see, even if it is barely 2° outside.
Designers and fashion magazines are the obvious place to get ideas but you can find inspiration anywhere.
I love the colours and patterns in oriental patterns. I went to Chinese New Year celebrations and had a fantastic day out, and got inspired (plus got a paper dragon and my name written in Chinese, always a winner!)

Dressed purely for warmth...I can't wait until that isn't my main consideration with choosing clothes (Although the jacket is actually quite a cute -if hidden here - retro denim jacket which cost less than a fiver from a charity shop.)

Designers Basso and Brook do some beautiful fabrics, with stunning colours. I love the combination of Japanese inspired design and more geometric shapes…I shall be looking out for anything I can find along these lines.

I found this top a few weeks ago for £3.49.

Wide belts and obi inspired styles was a look a few designers featured which is perfect for diy fashion…I wrapped a red leather belt around a dress, followed by a silk scarf, finished with a ribbon I bought from Paperchase a while ago….I think with a little adjustment this (or something along these lines) would work.

I really like the hair accessories some designers put on their models, and again I think it would be easy and fun to do yourself. You could try feathers, lace, anything you fancy for an interesting, done up hair do. Plus keeping it informal will stop you looking like a bridesmaid.
Staying with my floral, eastern theme I’m going to try to do something with these hair clips by ‘Jonny loves Rosie’ (which I found still in their box from Oxfam for £2.99) and these beautiful butterflies (which I think are meant to be decorations for your house since they have both magnets and clips on them.)