As we enter 2011 with our purses now full again (hopefully!) the question of fashion investments has arisen. Whether your budget is Prada or Primark there is something for everyone.

It’s no surprise that stripes and bold prints are still going strong but this spring we will see them going softer and warmer on flowing maxi’s and A lines. Add a splash of bright colours and stand out this spring instead of hiding behind repetitive pastels which is usually how Spring goes but fashion has taken a bold and brighter step this season.

Not only are we going bright but we are rebelling against conformist fashion where we have to match and co-ordinate everything- it’s all about clashing bold colours and still standing out.

Sportswear gets smart and not so Vicki Pollard simplicity sometimes really is the best thing especially with this trend. It’s all about the small details like zips, trims and mesh inserts.

Feeling crafty? You’re in luck as handicraft tassels and feathers will be making their way into your wardrobe. The shift dress will be given a very modern twist with crochet appliqué for that rustic charm. This is one trend that will be sure to fly well throughout this fashion season.

Banish those January blues and invest in beautiful blues instead. Drench yourself in lots of deep sea blue, teals and clear turquoise and as mentioned before clash rather then match.

Get ready to gather round pleats and delicate draping adding texture and movement to your clothes so they fall nicely with your movement rather then falling away from you. It’s not Grecian any more but more uptown chic.

Keep the arm candy plain and simple this season- finally fashion is becoming practical as the newbies come into force. Leave the bag lady look as you only need one bag this season: The Shopper. Designed for the modern day woman and all their needs (laptop, mobile phones, make up, keys, gym kit etc) it is lightweight, roomy, practically and most importantly so in.

Lastly but not least a girls BFF the shoes. This season it’s a combination of fashion and comfort. The heels are still high but more comfortable with the wedge firmly wedged in this season. An alternative is the block heel for that 90’s platform heel look if you’re not into the wedge. The stiletto has taken a more comfortable stance with platform base- so no more squashed pointy toes.

So there we have it- fashion, practicality and comfort for all this season.