Gray is the new black...or is it brown?

Bandolera available at Life styles. Eugen Klein available at Smart Woman. Picadilly fashions available at Ashton's. Eugen Klein available at Smart Woman.

Are all ballet flats actually shoes? Is that a dress shirt or is it a shirt dress? While some are what could be considered trend setters, not everyone follows the emergence and evolution of every new style in the magazines. That doesn't mean that you can't look stylish and well put together, though. Here are some trends that local fashionistas are setting. The less trendy can take what they like and leave the rest.

Skirts

When choosing which skirt belongs in your wardrobe this season, Kim Ariesen, manager and buyer at Smart Woman, suggests sticking to those that create a streamlined silhouette. Ariesen says the impression of the silhouette can be achieved through most wardrobe pieces, but especially plays out in a skirt choice. She suggests that this style can be achieved by choosing a pencil skirt or one with a little bit of flair at the bottom. When it comes to fabrics, the ones that she is seeing for spring are cottons and linens.

Pants

Some women will be happy to hear that ladylike men's wear is back in style. According to president of Ashton's of London, Susan Elgie, that means you should look for pants that have a high waist or pleats. These would be great for work or to wear out in the evening. For a more casual look, cargo pants are back in, following spring's safari trend. As the days get warmer, pull on a pair of clamdiggers or capris, which Elgie says can be given "a classic look if trimmed with decoration, such as eyelet trim." To take it a step farther, choose this spring wardrobe must-haves in trendy fabrics such as organic cottons.

Tops

This is where you can have a little fun, but to ensure that you're not overdoing it, remember one key thing: contrasting harmonies. If you have a bright, bold colour or a print, use it as an accent or pair it with something neutral. Ariesen says that this season's tops are going to be fun, with "softer hints of colours that will bring out neutrals, such as yellow or pink with gray."

As far as style and cut, Elgie says that the classic fitted poplin shirt will still be popular, but try it in a print instead of just the traditional white. Another trendy item is the one-shoulder shirt.

Dresses

Every woman needs a dress for going out, unless of course she's married to a couch potato, but also because wearing one just makes her feel good. Elgie says, "Dresses are the must have trend for the season." So if you don't splurge on anything else, splurge on this item. She adds that a very comfortable and trendy choice, for afternoons and evenings, is the wrap jersey. Dress it up with some trendy accessories for a night on the town.

Ariesen agrees, saying that dresses with fun prints are going to be very popular, and will offer women "that fun in the sun feeling." For a dress that can be worn anytime, and is also easily packed, choose something made in a lightweight fabric.

Jackets/Blazers

Keeping in mind the emphasis on silhouette, Ariesen thinks this will mean that jackets with a feminine cut that fit closer to the body will be important. Three-quarter sleeves will also be popular for the season, which, Ariesen adds, will be a great advantage for petite women. Choose a jacket in a neutral colour, allowing the shirt or the accessories to add the pop of colour. Ariesen suggests sticking to navy, tan, gray, or black and white - which is always strong.