How to Wear Bold Colors for Spring

Although it doesn't quite feel like it outside, the first day of spring is Thursday ... yay!

I for one am super excited. Although it's still quite chilly, the warm days (40s - 50s) are starting to outnumber the cold days. I've even spied buds on the tree outside my building's door.

One of my favorite ways to usher in the season is by wearing vibrant, bold spring colors.

This is the perfect time of year to start incorporating bright colors into your wardrobe. Radiant hues have the power to improve your mood, even on the coldest, dreariest, rainiest spring day.

Although vibrant colors sometimes feel intimidating to wear, there is no reason to fret! I've got 4 easy tips for how to wear bold colors for spring.

1.  Wear flattering colors near your face.

If a color flatters you, wear it right next to your face. Even if the rest of your outfit it completely neutral, the bright hue will wake up your complexion. After a long winter, it's the perfect way to brighten up pale skin.

I'm definitely a cardi girl, and you can often catch me in my uniform: a colorful cardigan, tank, and jeans paired with boots or flats, depending on the weather.

Too warm for a sweater (we can only hope!)? A pretty scarf or blouse will have the same effect.

2.  Experiment with less flattering colors away from the face.

I love neon as much as the next girl, but it's not something I'd wear right next to my face.

If you'd love to try bold color that doesn't flatter your complexion, move it away from your face. Experiment with a bright pair of shoes, belt, or even a skirt.

My neon flats are one of my favorite spring pieces. The fluorescent orange doesn't work for me at all, but I don't care if my feet are washed out!

3.  Have fun with makeup.

This is my favorite tip! I love to experiment with makeup, especially in new colors.

The best thing about playing with makeup is that you don't need to spend a lot. A visit to your local drugstore is all it takes. Look for brands like Wet n Wild, Jordana, and NYX, and experiment with bold lipsticks, eyeliners, blushes, and more to your hearts content.

I've wanted to try fuchsia lipstick for a while now, but I didn't want to invest in a color I might only wear once. My local Duane Reed has a ton of bargain brands, and I was able to find the perfect color, Milani Rose Hip, for under $10 (see above left). It's so much fun that I plan to wear it for my birthday later this month!

Another big trend for spring is orange lips. I wasn't sure if I'd like this color, but when I found NYC City Proof Twistable Intense Lip Color in Canal St. Coral for only $2.99, I figured it didn't hurt to try. Turns out that I really love it (above right). While I wouldn't wear the fuchsia lipstick every day, I'd wear this shade anytime. Plus, at that price I plan to stock up!

One tip: if you are going bold on your lips, eyes, or cheeks, tone down the rest of our makeup.

I also tried out a new hot pink polish recently, POPbeauty Nail Glam in Flirty Fushia. It's become my favorite. I'm really impressed with this polish: it dried quickly and lasted about 5 days, which never happens for me. I'm definitely going back for other shades.

4.  Add a pop of bold color with accessories.

If you want to add just a bit of color, accessories are the way to go.

Keep it simple with a pair of earrings, pile on the bracelets, or wear a chunky statement necklace. Either way, a few colorful baubles will finish your look and add a fun spring touch at the same time.

What is your favorite spring color?