A little while ago, I took a trip ;to the US, and as I always do when I travel, I grabbed as many fashion magazines as I could possibly hold to peruse on my flights.

As this last trip coincided with the arrival of Spring fashions, practically every magazine featured at least one segment on Spring Trends. And guess what? While some overlapped, they were not all the same.

So how does the average person navigate their way through the diverse and sometimes contradictory lists of what’s hot and what’s not?

That’s where I come in. You see not only did I personally sustain the magazine industry that month, but hit the shops to see which of these trends would actually make it to market. From discount to high end, the following trends are the ones I found to be most prevalent and wearable this Spring.

Gentlemen

Men’s fashion typically doesn’t change all that much from year to year. While fabrics, colours, cuts and subtle style elements do vary from season to season, it is very easy to maintain a classic style that lasts through the years.

However, for those interested in incorporating some of the latest looks, here’s what I found to be dominating men’s fashion this Spring.

All American: This Spring, the preppy look is back (although I’m not sure it’s ever really left). This season is all about v neck sweaters, golf shirts and jackets, cardigans, blazers, jeans, khaki’s, bermuda shorts, sneakers, oxfords and loafers.

But here’s the trick to making it current: the silhouette is much narrower, pant cuts are slimmer and cuffs are rolled. Those seeking an edgier look can opt for a Motorcycle jacket, which is also cut closer to the body. Those who don’t have the body type for the new slimmer cuts can still adopt the preppy look while maintaining cuts suitable to their shape.

For those of you who have been enjoying the Slim-Fit or Skinny Suit, you’ll be happy to know that it’s still extremely popular. A word of caution: the slimmer the suit, the pointier the shoe.

Ladies

Women’s fashion changes at such a rapid pace that it’s difficult to know what’s coming and what’s going, whether we’re in, out or somewhere in between. Yet as with men, it is possible for women to adopt a somewhat classic, timeless look. However, for those who would like to incorporate some new elements into their wardrobe, here are some of the top looks for Spring.

Colour: While bright colours are big this season (think 80’s), so are neutrals and pastels. While it’s great to play around with colour, make sure to choose those that complement your skin tone.

Bags: Day clutch, chain, messenger, hobo, mini and transformer - the sky’s the limit. Pick your style and keep it current by choosing one in a bright colour, icy neutral, animal print or metallic.

Jewellery: Statement earrings, necklaces and stacked cuffs or bracelets are a fun and inexpensive way to incorporate the look of the season into your wardrobe. Just make sure that this Spring they’re big and bold.

Belts: Belts continue to take center stage. Whether wide, narrow or double, make sure that whichever look you choose suits your body type. Better to flatter your shape than work a trend.

Shoes: Sky-high platforms and heels,& gladiators and cut-outs, bright colours, metallics and animal prints - the statement shoe dominates this Spring. For those of you who aren’t into towering heels, you’ll be happy to know that flats and wedges continue to be extremely popular.

Pants: From boyfriend to pyjama, dhoti to harem, skinny to sailor, there are a variety to looks to suit your style. One thing to keep in mind - it’s all about the ankle this Spring. Whether you roll the cuff or choose a cropped length, ankle baring pants are all the rage. (Just keep your vertical proportions in mind when choosing your lengths.)

Covers: Loose blazers, boyfriend jackets and slouchy cardigans are getting a lot of press this season. Keep in mind though, there’s a fine line between loose or slouchy and too big.

Jumpsuit: I debated whether or not to add the jumpsuit, but because of its popularity, I felt I had to include it. I hesitated because while the right jumpsuit on the right person can look great, the right jumpsuit on the wrong person or the wrong jumpsuit on anyone can have a devastating effect. So a word of warning: tread carefully with this trend.

The key trends is to integrate them into your existing wardrobe. So whether you choose to incorporate one element or five, remember to keep your skin tone, body shape and personal style in mind. That way, whichever piece you include will seem like a natural extension of who you already are. But most importantly, have fun and experiment - that’s what trends are all about!