LET LOOSE Free flow for spring. Sashay, glide and twirl in caftan dresses, tops and tunics. Wear these on their own, or team them up in quirky combinations. Holiday and resort wear are now mainstream runway staples. These are not just for the beach anymore, but multi-occasion appropriate (except the very formal ones, of course). Square-cut, shawl or poncho-like, sometimes one-shouldered, these blend Middle Eastern, South American, Indo-holistic and Zen elements that transcend age and size. Batik is casual; a jewelled neckline spells evening glam. But do not go on an accessory overload. Too many beads and baubles will make you look like a fortune teller and scare people off!

WAIST-ED EFFORT After the dominance of broad belts and cinched mid-sections, things are getting a bit more relaxed around the stomach. The blouson is returning, and the waistline is dropping. Not quite hip-level yet, but way below the empire lines. Elastics, drawstrings, belts and gathers create softness. This feminine trend can have a romantic, edgy or super-sexy avatar – the dresses, tunics and even jumpsuits are proof. And while you do not have to hold your breath and eat like a bird anymore, this does not mean that you stop going to the gym. This is a tricky feature, and a paunch can very easily show through, so do not be fooled.

Subscribe to Verve Magazine or buy the Verve issue on stands now!