Read on for some good looks for spring and summer. Experimenting with color is an entertaining way to indulge in warm-weather trends.

Polka dots:

Polka dots are a classic, crisp pattern. Unlike the dreaded horizontal stripes, which seem to expand and enlarge even the teensiest waistline, polka dots are an all-over flattering print on every shape and size. For a modern take, look for nontraditional polka dot color-combinations and garments with varying dot sizes.

Check out Marc Jacobs Spring 2010 RTW for a killer black blouse with lime green dots. Diane von Furstenberg’s black jumpsuit with wild white dots is also a favorite.

Hobo bag, size medium:

Look for a brand new hobo bag — a smaller version of last year’s giant carry-all. A much more manageable size, the medium hobo bag is the perfect purse for all of your necessities with just the right amount of slouch; this way, you won’t look like a total bohemian ragamuffin shopping all over town.

My new crush? The Brushed Hobo Bag by Olivia Harris as well as VBH’s Leather Studded Hobo Bag (c’mon, can’t a girl have two?)

Springtime scarves:

I don’t know how everyone feels about it, but wearing scarves in the springtime finally seems to be catching on! Silk or cotton is most appropriate — not too heavy, yet still a fabric of substantial weight. Find a fun, floral pattern or retro design. See Spring 2010 collections, including Roberto Cavalli’s Art Deco print scarf and Dries Van Noten’s red cotton printed scarf, for ideas.

Denim:

Although I continuously bring up denim and its endlessness in the world of fashion, I am still intrigued by its widespread use. For example, look up Chanel’s new denim eyeglass frames. Someone has found yet another way to incorporate texture, color, and a classic American material into a very unexpected item. Accessories or garments with such surprising and clever design elements, featuring everyday materials, truly make the pieces unique and long-lasting. Look out for other denim items. Brighter denims or lighter blues feel very spring. For a few more fun examples, check out the tassel detail moccasin from See by Chloe and Lanvin’s newest denim dress for Acne Spring 2010.

Wallpaper-like prints:

In kindergarten and first grade, all of the cool kids wore leggings with matching tops or jumpsuits that closely resembled exercise gear, just in case they had to run the mile in gym class (or was that just me?). Regardless, Lauren Moffatt’s Spring 2010 line, which features a floral top and matching shorts combo, makes me want to revisit the day of pre-assembled outfits, when separates weren’t always the dominant way of wardrobe life. There is something quite preppy and proper about a matching top and bottom, so if it just seems like way too much, feel free to add accessories and break up the wallpaper-print with a belt or some funky shoes.