Whether you are pretty in pink or cool in blue, there's something about soft pastel colours that can make you feel really girly.
And when the soft, almost candy-coloured pastel pieces start appearing in shops, it's a sure sign that summer can't be too far away.
Some of the pastelsthis season are good enough to eat. I particularly like pastel maxi-dresses for a romantic holiday option. But while there's still a bit of winter chill around, look for a cardigan or trench coat in pale blue or green to get a taste of the spring trend early.
Because the soft colours can look a bit too girly on women older than 16, opt for more structured, tailored pieces if you want to wear pastels to work. A shift dress in pale blue, or a pair of cigarette trousers in mint could be perfect. Celebrities seem keen to match pastels with lace accents, but I can't help thinking it looks like something that should be in the children's-wear section.
If you can't face head-to-toe pastel, there are some ways to get a touch of the look without looking like an Easter egg.
Team a pastel dress with a black blazer or wear a pastel blouse with a black skirt. Black gives a much more formal touch to floaty, frilly pieces and anchors them, giving the colours more depth.
Try pastel accessories such as a handbag or a pair of shoes. Pale pink heels are a great alternative to the nude that's been on everyone's feet for the past year. Even pastel nail polishes are a nice touch, and make your nails look longer.
Mix pastels with other pale colours, but make sure they are all in the same colour family - for example, wear dark blue with pastel, eggshell blue.
