Silver spring

Now that the sun has decided to come out and play, there is no excuse to get dressed in the dark anymore. Spring is here, giving life to new styles and trends that will be sure to brighten up a muted winter wardrobe.

Damsel in sun-dress

Girls, it is time to show off those legs that have been hiding all winter long. For breezy 70-degree days, nothing is more comfortable and fashionable than a light sun-dress. When paired with a hair band or Ray-ban shades, floral print or vibrant solid shaded dresses can be feminine or flirty and are always an easy, casual look to pull off without the fuss of outfit planning. "All I want to wear are little sun-dresses," says senior Sarah Rothman, spinning in a floral olive green frock from Forever 21. "They are so cute and versatile."

High fashion can seem unattainable due to high cost, but dolling out the dough is not mandatory for this spring and summer look. Forever 21, H&M, Rave and Target are among stores selling hot sun-dresses for cool prices.

Sunny-day sandals

Flip-flops are an undeniable spring and summer classic. Slip on a pair on in April and don't take them off until September. For those willing to stick their feet into something new, try a strapped, flat sandal. There is no reason to bear the discomfort of wedge heels when you can buckle or clasp these babies on and go. With straps around the toes, arch and ankles more for show than restraint, these shoes let feet breathe like old reliable flip flops. Whether in tan leather or metallic gold, strapped flat sandals are an understated way to complete any wardrobe and look great when paired with a sun-dress, jeans, or shorts. For great buys try Target, DSW or Payless.

Who wears short-shorts?

Blazers do! Skin is in this spring with short-shorts returning as a hot item. Don't hesitate for a second to combine a pair of teeny shorts with a baggier shirt on top. Try Forever 21's dresses and peasant tops paired with short-shorts and strappy sandals to create a hippy-chic beach look during this transition from the hallway to the boardwalk.

If short-shorts aren't your thing, Bermuda shorts are a summer 2007 style back in action. Whether in a solid color or a plaid or floral print, these shorts can be worn in fitted or baggy styles to suit your preference. For classic Bermudas, try the Gap, and for unique patterns, try Old Navy.

Bikini bonanza

Bathing suit season is so close, we can almost smell the sun-block now! When bathing suit shopping, don't limit yourself to a specific trend or style. The most important thing when hunting for your dream suit is to find something you feel good in – whether it is a sleek one-piece, an itsy-bitsy-bikini or a tasteful tankini. A trend to try this year is a tube bikini on top with a halter tie around the neck.

Take a lesson from sophomore Vera Baidoo and "wear colors that bring out your skin." You don't need to go tanning to glow if you pick the right shade for your complexion. Target carries a wide selection of unique bathing suits that are easy on the wallet.

As spring fades into summer and exams give way to freedom, soak up the rays of the sun in clothes you feel equally radiant in. Remember that in any season, self-expression is the highest form of fashion.