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As spring fashion trends begin to emerge -- from bold color statements to nostalgic silhouettes -- the most important shift isn’t happening in closets.
It’s happening internally.
While seasonal trend reports often focus on what’s new, personal stylist Samantha Dawn says the real starting point is much simpler: How you want to feel when you get dressed.
“Your personal style is your story,” Dawn told "Good Morning America." “I can name trends all day long, but they don’t really matter if they don’t actually express who you are. It really comes down to asking yourself, ‘What is your current story and how do you want to show up?’”
That mindset is shaping how many women are approaching dressing for spring, not by replacing their wardrobes entirely, but by thoughtfully incorporating trends that align with their identity.
One of the most noticeable shifts this spring is color. While pastels remain a seasonal staple, Dawn said this year’s palette is moving toward bolder, more expressive hues.
“Cherry red, cobalt blue and bright, sunny yellows are going to be really big,” she said. “Each year, fashion is becoming more expressive and more aligned with showing your authentic self.”
For those seeking a softer aesthetic, delicate textures such as lace trim continue to trend this season. Dawn said these details allow wearers to explore femininity in a way that feels personal rather than performative.
“If someone wants to express more softness or femininity, lace trim is the perfect trend to adopt,” she said.
That expression can be subtle, such as a lace-trim tank layered under a blazer, or more statement-driven through corset silhouettes or layered textures.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, sharper tailoring such as funnel-neck jackets and structured blazers are gaining traction this spring.
These pieces often appeal to those entering a new phase of life or seeking a more defined personal aesthetic.
“When you evolve, your style evolves, too,” Dawn said. “Sometimes your wardrobe reflects a past version of yourself and updating it helps you align with who you’ve become.”
Structured silhouettes offer polish without requiring a full wardrobe overhaul, making them especially accessible entry points for those looking to refresh their look.
While trends can serve as inspiration, Dawn emphasized that the goal isn’t to follow everything.
“I always ask my clients, ‘Do you align with this trend or do you just appreciate it?’” she said. “There’s a difference between loving something visually and actually feeling like you.”
“You don’t have to marry every trend,” she said. “You can experiment with pieces that help you express different parts of yourself.”
Whether the goal is to feel more confident, feminine, modern or bold, identifying that intention first makes shopping and styling decisions easier and more meaningful.
“Style is really about reconnecting with yourself,” she said. “When you choose clothing based on how you want to feel, everything becomes clearer.”
This spring, that may be the most powerful trend of all.
