It's not just the potential change in the weather that lifts the spirits at this time of year. It's the brand new list of wardrobe ingredients to choose from.

Whether the thought of a whole new array of fashion choices leaves you panting with excitement or panic, there will be no avoiding the new collections that have started filling the shops. Here is a glimpse of the latest and greatest.

Florals

Sprigs, buds and petals danced across cotton shirts, dresses and tunics. As we say goodbye to the darker winter days, so the new fashion collections herald the dawn of spring with hectares of colourful flowers.

Colour

Colours for spring are subtle on the one hand and fiery on the other, with sandstone, tan, cream, chocolate and beige, blended with metallics such as silver and complemented by egg yolk yellow, tangerine, grass green and aubergine.

Skirts

Springtime will be a celebration of femininity, with ladylike looks and accessories galore. Start with a prom-style skirt that is fitted on the waist and flows out to your knees. Mix in an asymmetrical top and elegant slides or peep toe pumps. L.A.M.B. showed hectares of polka dots and fringed skirts while Marc Jacob's models wore a succession of pretty coloured blouses and skirts.

Coats

Trench coats will look fresh over everything from shift dresses to smart trousers. But, if you crave a change, try an anorak or a cute, crisp blazer.

Dresses

The sexy shift sums up the dominant trend of the season. Body conscious, rather than revealing, it is a proud celebration of the scrubbed-clean, no-nonsense silhouette. Shirt dresses, tunics and even long dresses have their appeal and will play a leading role this season. A dress spells fashion success.

Kellie Ann Zupet reports on fashion for The Hamilton Spectator.

gostyle@thespec.com