As spring is just around the corner, I wait in anticipation for the spring collections to arrive in stores. I love color and anyone who knows me will agree (I admit, I did go through a little black wardrobe phase in the late 90’s). Simply put, color makes me happy.When I was viewing Marni’s 2011 spring collection, I lusted every outfit, right down to the bike shorts. Designer Consuelo Castiglioni mixed athletic touches with texture and in your face bold color. She showed a mix of patterns, color blocking, great must have accessories; bags, shoes and jewelry, and oh that leather perforated Jacket!

Perforated Jacket

Bold Floral

Color Blocking

She has been my favorite for quite a while, and after viewing her collections, I am always inspired to look twice and see how I can take pieces from my closet and create colorful layered ensembles. Pairing separates that may not be obvious, or have been neglected and trying on new color combinations. It’s easy to fall back on the old regular pairings, even I can get a little lazy at times.

If you find that your comfort zone is neutral colors, safe silhouettes and you shy away from color, I challenge you to break out your color wheel, view the spring collections, spend some time getting inspired and put together a couple of colorful outfits. Be bold and be happy!