Before you start shopping for a new spring wardrobe, there are five key trends to watch out for. Be the first of your friends to strut down Grand River Avenue in these chic ensembles.

1. The white, innocent, frilly top. White was seen all over the spring 2006 runways in the form of delicate, Victorian-style shirts. Forever 21 sells a variety of these cute blouses for reasonable prices. Dress up with cigarette-style capris or dress down with dark jeans.

2. The minidress. Very versatile and an instant chic-ifier, the minidress is an outfit for everyone — even the fashion challenged. Simply buy a variety and wear them day after day. No need to worry about pairing tops with bottoms and colors with prints. Throw on a minidress on and you're good to go.

3. The elegant shorts. No longer just for the park, shorts are making a comeback. Designers are making many different styles of these dressy bottoms whether they be cuffed, buttoned, pin-striped or Bermuda. When it's warm enough, wear with peep-toe heels or flats. If it's still too cold to wear alone, don a pair of black tights and wear underneath with thigh-high boots or flats. It's all the rage in Paris.

4. The empire-waist top. Indulge in all of the sweets you want this spring, because the new empire-waist tops will hide the evidence. Gathered just below the chest and flared at the bottom, they flatter every body type. Watch 2005's "Pride and Prejudice" for inspiration on the trend. Its costumes are filled with empire-style dresses.

5. The bubble skirt/dress (pictured left). After many seasons of the slim pencil skirt, the flouncy bubble skirt is a refreshing switch. Charlotte Russe carries a black and white striped version along with a red bubble dress. Pair the skirt with a cute cardigan for a dressy approach, or a simple T-shirt for everyday wear. Wear the bubble dress alone with flats.

*Nautical chic is also a major trend for spring. Check out our SN Style from Jan. 12 to familiarize yourself with the sailor-inspired wear.