Top it off: Spring's freshest outerwear

Just when you were dreaming of tossing your peacoat or North Face in the fireplace (it's no secret that winter coats can be hassle,what with the constant on,off, and on-again), Spring 2010 outerwear is here to prove that coats and jackets don't have to be boring, bulky, or a fashion buzz kill.

Classic trench coats in delicious shades of lime, coral, and can't-go-wrong khaki are here to stay, while abstract prints in neutral colors and unusual silhouettes breathe fresh life into spring's outermost layer. Leather jackets remain in the mix (no need to stash your winter splurge just yet), and who would guess?-jean jackets are back and popping up everywhere! The latest takes feature refined denim in easy-to-wear blazers and on-trend military styles.

This fashionista has scoured the web (no need to emerge from winter hibernation just yet) for spring's freshest outerwear at gotta-have-it splurges and can't-beat-that-deal steals.

Whether you're a classic dresser who likes to keep things simple, an on-trend diva who never leaves home without the latest InStyle, a rocker-chic femme who works leather from 9-5 and beyond, or a lover of oldies-but-goodies (or a combination of each--expressing your personal style means you never have to choose just one!), spring's latest outerwear looks offer something to meet your budget and your personal style.

CAN'T-GO-WRONG PICKS OF THE WEEK

This spring, trenches arrive in luxurious shiny satin and vibrant colors, hitting at or slightly above the knee. Wear with confidence in these can't-go-wrong picks of the week!

LEFT: Splurge; Ralph Lauren Blue Label Classic Trench Satin Trench (Color: Tug Hill Tan; Sizes: 2-14); $598; ralphlauren.com. RIGHT: Steal; London Fog Double Breasted  Short Trench Coat (Color: Key Lime, also in White or Black; Sizes: Small-XLarge); $98; nordstrom.com.

Abstract prints in a multitude of heavenly neutrals lined spring's runways. Snag your of-the-moment jacket in a short, hip-hitting style or try an above the knee silhouette.

LEFT: Splurge; Piazza Sempione Short Sleeve Printed Cotton Jacket (Color: Brown/Ivory; Sizes: 2-14); $1,195; saksfifthavenue.com (now available for pre-order). MIDDLE: Splurge; Tracy Reese Black Shadow Dots 3/4 Coat (Color: Black multi; Sizes: P-L); $440; tracyreese.com. RIGHT: Steal; J.Crew Neapolitan Lady Jacket (Color: Violet Dust; Sizes: 0-14); $228; jcrew.com.

Denim jackets are back in slim, figure-flattering silhouettes. Try an office-appropriate blazer with rolled-up cuffs or a laid-back military shape for a look that's effortlessly cool.

LEFT: Splurge; Nanette Lepore Denim Petal Jacket (Color: Denim; Sizes: 0-12); $398; neimanmarcus.com (now available for pre-order). MIDDLE: Steal; Arden B. Chambray Boyfriend Blazer (Color: Chambray; Sizes: XS-L); $59; ardenb.com. RIGHT: Steal: GAP Denim Utility Jacket (Color: Medium; Sizes: XS-XXL); $69.50; gap.com.

Leather jackets are a wardrope staple that translate across the seasons. The latest looks combine leather and lighter, more airy fabrics in at-the-hip lengths. Pair with a sheer, floral blouse and metallic blush or lucite accessories to keep the look fresh for spring.

LEFT: Splurge; Robert Rodriguez Waxed Leather & Denim Jacket (Color: Black; Sizes: 2-10); $627; saksfifthavenue.com. MIDDLE: Steal; bebe Leather and Knit Military Jacket (Color: Black; Sizes: XS-L); $229; bebe.com. RIGHT: Steal: BB Dakota Jessie Cadet Leather Jacket (Color: Storm; Sizes: XS-M); $240; piperlime.com.

Happy shopping, and don't forget to Dress to Express (Yourself!)

Fashionably yours,
Samantha

Welcome to Dress to Express!

We've all heard the phrase "Dress to Impress"-- the idea that one should choose their clothing in order to impress others. My love and passion for fashion instead finds roots in the phrase "Dress to Express"--a belief that one should dress to express themselves, who they are, and what they love via their clothing.

If there is anyone you should dress to impress, it's yourself! After all, it's true that the way you look and dress can have a large impact on the way others view you, but more importantly, your clothes can hugely impact the way you view yourself. Want proof? I would bet that you've--at least once-- had a morning when you woke up horribly late (for work, school, your lunch date with a friend on the other side of town) and had to throw together an outfit that you hated (likely your only clean clothes that didn't require ironing!), and found yourself avoiding your normal 3 glasses of water or that afternoon trip to Starbucks so you could avoid having to see yourself in the bathroom mirror. Conversely, I bet you've had a day when you just adored what you were wearing: maybe you had a big day at work or a date with the guy who you've been crushing on for months, and you planned your outfit days (ok, weeks!) in advance. Donning your favorite power outfit of the moment (perhaps a dress, blazer, heels, and a chunky statement necklace?), you likely exuded confidence as you walked into your 9:00am meeting with your Director or VP and nailed the meeting ...or perhaps got an invitation for a second date with that latest crush.

Everyone feels their best when they know they look great, and this fashionista's belief is this: Why not dress to express yourself--and not only look but also feel your best--everyday?

Each week, look to Dress to Express for new trends in clothing, accessories, shoes & more (pick and choose what trends are right for you, because personal style is a trend that never goes out of style), the latest online fashion finds--including  worth-it splurges and deals & steals, and even more. This fashionista hopes the posts-to-come will inspire you to take a journey to fashion self-discovery and expression this spring and beyond.

Here's to Dressing to Express (Yourself)!

Fashionably yours,
Samantha