This season, fashion differs dramatically from years past. For a start, the palette is softer.

The colors are more muted with very natural embellishments, said Laura McDowell, T.J. Maxx fashion spokesperson.

White is clearly a favorite, with neutrals a close second. When mixed with color, the look is softer and very contemporary. Try navy with white (for the ever-popular nautical look), yellow, chocolate brown and oatmeal as complementary color tones. Graphic black and white combos look surprisingly fresh.

Perhaps the biggest options are springs array of pants-they run the gamut from cropped, wide gauchos to Bermuda shorts/skimmers. Also look for slender capris, long, slouchy trousers and high-waisted sailor pants. Feminine blouses are the ideal accompaniment: Choose a billowing, Victorian-style ruffled blouse, or the classic, always-in-style button down. The little black dress has been replaced by the little white dress, with light, feminine detailing. Jackets are back. Look for cropped, fitted jackets, as well as military-inspired styles: very tailored with high necks. Todays skirts are longer and feminine: tulip shapes, bubble skirts and multitiered versions.

Theres no need to carry a tote or even a briefcase this season. Handbags are big enough to hold just about anything. Look for cross-body handles and extra-large satchels.

Oversized is definitely in, but do consider your body shape and size, advises McDowell.

Belts are also getting wider. Shoes are chunky with high heels, platform, espadrilles, peep toes and wedges. Vibrant turquoise, coral and amber jewelry add a healthy dose of color; multi-strand necklaces-the longer the better-are bold yet sophisticated. Five easy ways to update your wardrobe are:

1. Something, anything white

2. A soft romantic skirt

3. At least one pair of cropped pants: gauchos, capris or skimmers

4. A nautical accent: striped shirt, macrame belt or wedge espadrilles

5. A great big handbag in supple Italian leather or summery straw

Gothic clothing uses a look that includes what some people feel is a sexy, sleek, and wild look. Not everyone is going to dress in a suit and tie for work, and if you are not in that group, consider gothic clothing to set your mood for fun all day and all night long. Gothic clothing is based on the use of tight corsets, tight clothing, leathers, the look of chains and an overall style that is different from many other types of designers and styles that are available.

Most gothic clothing is not available in retail stores offline. You can occasionally find a gothic clothing store offline, but in larger cities. Prices for gothic clothing are going to be a bit higher, as you are purchasing a specialty item, one that will take you back in time to a point where costumes where a daily habit, and the costumes wear worn by those who had the most power in that time, and the most wisdom.

Gothic clothing often times represents a more animal looking side to life. The animal prints of the leopard and the tiger are often times very popular with the gothic clothing you can find for sale online. The tiger prints in bold yellow, black, and sometimes in white with black are popular as gifts, for wearing, and to set your wardrobe out among the rest. Leopard prints in red, white, black and sometimes in yellow are exciting additions for those who want to have the gothic clothing feel extended in their life.

Gothic clothing purchases can be completed online. You can find many gothic clothing retailers online, from different countries that are going to add that something special to your wardrobe, and that others in your friendly circle are not going to have. You can mix and match gothic clothing to include pants, shirts, shorts, tops, tanks, and neckwear or head gear that is fabulous compared to the boring type of suits and outfits that are available through other retailers. The gothic clothing lines are exciting, sexy, and sultry, setting your own style to be one that will make you a step above the rest in your crowd. If you are in the rock scene, in the punk scene or if you are a partygoer, you are going to love what you can find online in the gothic clothing sections.