To borrow an adjective from Project Runway winner Christian (he so deserved to win!!) - polka dots are fierce. Just look at the model above - pair those typically innocent dots with killer red heels, diva high-waist shorts and a bright yellow patent clutch, and the result is most definitely fierce. Polka dots are a perennial springtime trend, but this time around, don't make your polka dots cutesy or frilly or sweet - make them fierce. Grrr!

[1] Spot Tulip Sleeve Dress at TopShop.com, £45.00 (89 U.S. dollars)
[2] Ruffle-front shirt in polka dots at VictoriasSecret.com, $39
[3] CL by Laundry Polka-Dot Large Hobo Bag at Target.com, $22.99
[4] Polka-dot chiffon ruffle top at Forever21.com, $19
[5] Lela Rose for Payless Satin Polka-Dot Pump at Payless.com, $35

I love Vera's play on proportions and smart color choices in this latest crop of looks from her Simply Vera by Vera Wang collection for Kohl's. She mixes various volumes and lengths, adds a touch of brights tempered by subdued hues, and incorporates some of the whimsical watercolor, painterly prints that are so popular this season. When you add it all up, everything about her collection suggests she takes women seriously. Comfortable, dare I say, practical looking shoes suggest she respects the fact that women actually have places to walk to without pain or breaking an ankle. She's also succeeded in convincing me that an anorak can be both functional and cute. Even the way the lovely models are styled says, "We can think, too." It's just refreshing, that's all. Bravo.





Related post:

• Simply Vera Vera Wang Brushstroke-Print Dress

Allow me to help you get started with the pink and orange trend by sharing this amazing budget find: A pink square-neck pullover blouse from Chadwick's that costs just $24.99. The color—stunning. The cut—flattering. The neckline—fresh.

Now we just need to find you some hot orange shorts...

>> Chadwick's Square Neck Pullover Blouse in Begonia, $24.99

Jovovich-Hawk for Target landed in stores yesterday, and yours truly was there to check it out. We were greeted by breezy tops, flirty dresses and hip swimwear that made us ache for warm weather that much more. Cool, feminine, and most of all, sexy. FYI: The pics on Target's website don't do this collection justice. Sure, some of it fit a little snug (a jacquard wrap-dress didn't fit at all, couldn't keep the girls covered) and a lot of it was strictly stuff you'd wear on the beach (please don't wear a cover-up downtown), but overall, this is definitely one hot collection you'll want to hit before taking that Spring break vacation (my bootie isn't going anywhere so send me a postcard!). Keep scrolling to see some of our favorites - and tell us what you think of the collection in the comments!

Editor's Pick at Left: Crinkle Floral Chiffon Top, $24.99. Right: Chevron Stripe Dress, N/A

Left: Front Button Tunic in Vision Blue, $19.99. Right: Smocked Dress, $39.99

Left: Strappy Lace Dress, $39.99. Right: Corset Front Dress, $39.99

For those of us who need a little order in our lives, a colorblocked-frock keeps hues neatly compartmentalized in three distinct zones that are calming, clean and grounded. Take your pick of luxe or less...


Luxe on Left: Iodice Three-Tone Bubble Dress at NeimanMarcus.com, $335.00
Less on Right: Pleated Colorblock Tunic at Forever21.com, $22.80