Forever 21 has a preview of their swimwear collection called Beauty and the Beach, showcasing bikinis and one-piece bathing suits in colorful prints like florals, stripes, leopard print, tribal and tropical. Something for everyone! The styling is adorable, as are the illustrations of fish, waves and fruity drinks accompanying the photographs. Can't say my pasty winter-self is looking forward to bathing suit season just yet but what the heck, bring it on. More pics after the jump…

The Macy's Spring 2010 Look Book is out, showcasing some of top trends we can expect to see in their ready-to-wear collection. Sequins are back, as are oversized pieces paired with skinny elements. Stripes, florals and what they're calling Afrique-Chic prints all make appearances on tops, skirts and dresses. I'm loving Rachel Rachel Roy's khaki coat paired with a bright blue top as well as that delicious embellished abstract-floral dress from DKNY. The return of canary yellow is also a welcome sign that spring is in the air (somewhere). I'm also impressed by the sophisticated styling, looks more Neiman Marcus than Macy's to me! But of course, with Macy's comes the affordable pricing we prefer. What say you?

I.N.C. DRESS: $99

MICHAEL MICHAEL KORS
TANK TOP: $69.50
JACKET: $129.50
DENIM: $89.50

BCBGENERATION
BOYFRIEND JACKET: $138
WALTER SHORTS: $103

Here's how the Herve Leger-inspired bandage dress (above left) looks styled on a mannequin...

During a recent trip to H&M, I spotted a Herve Leger inspired bandage dress made out of a sort of stretchy sweater material gloriously displayed in the window, so I ducked in to try it on. It didn't work with my body type but I think it's a great find for under $50 (sorry I can't remember the exact price). Elsewhere in the store I admired all the new early spring arrivals, from perfect trench coats in black, coral or khaki to ironic floral print dresses to lots and lots of nude, taupe, beige and otherwise neutral garments, perfect for brightening up a late-winter wardrobe. My only problem with the neutral trend is that those washed out colors tend to make my skin look sallow. Maybe the right makeup and accessories can fix that, we shall see! More pics after the jump.

Here's how it looks on the rack...

Here's how it looks on me (wasn't really working with my rectangular build, but the construction seemed good)

The print on this floral dress reminded me of a Marc Jacobs dress from last season. Note the fierce gold shoes below.

COLORED Denim

In many ways, American Apparel stores look the same every season. Whether it's the middle of summer or the dead of winter, you can always count on AA's neatly displayed racks, rows and stacks of famous basics in a rainbow of colors. But whereas winter stock includes hoodies and long sleeves, spring means lots more tank tops, skirts and dresses. With Valentine's Day right around the corner, it begs mentioning that American Apparel also has a fab selection of sexy unmentionables including supersoft cotton panties, boxers and thongs. If you think about it, many of the crazy clothing items they carry (think silver lame hotshorts and sheer lace leotards) are perfect for spicing things up in the bedroom! And they are affordable to boot. Check it out, you'll thank me later.

More photos after the jump >>

The color CORAL

I stopped into my nearest J.Crew last weekend, lured inside by the stunning window displays, to check out their latest spring offerings. J. Crew isn't exactly what I would call a budget-friendly store, but their timeless takes on fashion trends are always inspiring—and many would argue they are well worth the price. This season is no different: From classic shirts, tees and sweaters remade in light and bright spring hues, to sparkling statement necklaces, colorful scarves and Le Pliage-inspired totes, J. Crew had everything you'd need to put together a smart yet none-too-serious spring wardrobe.

The problem with a classy store like J. Crew is that you always get personal attention from the sales people, so unfortunately I was not able to discreetly snap photos of the beautiful store displays, which demonstrate how to artfully layer individual pieces, how to accessorize—the works. Even if you don't buy anything (I did not), pop into a store near you for ideas! Here, some photos of just a few fun pieces that caught my eye.