Instead of changing who you are on the inside for this New Year, why not improve yourself on the outside? Let’s face it—people may love you as you are, but they’ll love you loads more if you would just dress like you deserve it. With the spring fashion season fast approaching, it’s important to recognize the trends that are taking Europe by storm as we speak. Textured fabrics, long flowing lines, suede, and of course, denim are all hitting the runways of Paris and Milan with a bang this season, so it’s time you follow in suit.

Here are a few things to remember this spring when you decide to go to the mall and start buying clothes:

Disregard everything you’ve ever been told about the dangers of “The Pants Suit”, because with long, sleek trousers and a form flattering blazer, the pants suit speaks to the empowered woman in all of us.

Classic Bohemian styles are a must have this season; long flowing silhouettes and light, airy fabrics are perfect for a charming spring evening.

Denim, denim, denim! Will it ever go out of style? Possibly the most Americanized textile on the market today, denim comes in all washes, shapes, and sizes, and it’s not just for jeans either! Denim is appearing in high end fashion shows across Europe being worn as jackets, hair pieces, and even sandal straps!

Your leggings are not pants! How can you expect people to respect you when you come to school in last night’s pajamas? In the words of the fabulous Coco Chanel, “Dress like you are going to meet your worst enemy today.”

A good way to build your wardrobe to suit your style is by finding a designer that you like. Take inspiration from their designs, and seek out similar styles within your price range wherever you go. Vogue, in the past year, has paid much attention to a designer by the name of Zac Posen, an up and coming designer for the stars whose pieces have been worn at many society gatherings.  For instance, this past year’s Met Gala saw burlesque queen Dita Von Teese gliding across the red carpet in a stunning satin fit and flair by Zac Posen.

Most importantly, I challenge all of you reading this to find your own personal style. What do you look good in? Do you like how it makes you feel? Do you like the attention it earns you? An important part of who you are as a person is made up by how people view you, so why not take advantage of that? Make your outside just as beautiful as your inside, and people will love you just as much as you should love yourself.