The Budget Fashionista

Winter's over, so it's time to stash the black, right? Uh, no -- but it is time to change it up for Spring. This season, that means pairing it with blindingly-crisp whites, either as separates or in eye-grabbing patterns. Our favorite ways to keep it fresh? Try these:

~ Florals. Some of us shy away from florals because blooms combined with bright color seems like just a little too much, but don't skip floral altogether. Instead, choose a floral in black and white -- especially one that's big and bold -- to up the sophistication level, like this one from JC Penney, on sale for $53.99.

~ Stripes. Horizontal is hot, but any black and white stripe right now looks clean and fresh for the season. Try a black and white striped tunic top with denim, platform sandals, and a wristful of bangles for an easy going out look.

~ Big Polka Dots. No, we're not going to add more than one black and white giant polka dot piece to our wardrobe, since the look will be dated before you can say, well, giant polka dot three times fast. But we still think it's pretty cute -- especially in the form of this sleeveless tie-neck top (pictured) from Newport News, on sale for $29.

~ The White Pant. Abandon those old ideas about white pants -- you can wear them, we promise. As always, the key is fit -- if you're worried about looking bulky, pick a cut that is clean and close to the body, with a straight leg to give you length -- and then pair it with a not-too-long black top that floats slightly away from the body for balance, like this Sailor Top from Charlotte Russe, $17.99.