The best pieces for the Spring/Summer season

1. The slinky slip
Yep, it’s now cool to wear what looks like lingerie in public – only if you’re daring enough, of course. For those hesitant about showing too much, shrug on a lacy cover-up or a blazer.
Asos Boudoir Lace Trim Jumpsuit, $112 at www.asos.com

2. The ruffled detail
When it comes to ruffles, the more, the better (as evidenced by catwalk models drowning in layers of fabric). But for us mere mortals, a simple, flattering silhouette with minimal ruching ensures unfussy femininity.
Madison Ave Cotton Candy Yasmine Dress, price on request at Kate Spade New York

3. The thin pleat
For a clean, sharp look, tiny knife pleats are what you want – they offer a sweet side to your usual shirt-and-blazer office combo.
Navy Pleated Midi Dress, $116 at Dorothy Perkins

4. The floral print
Think English garden tea party with scones and dainty teacups on saucers. To stand out among the roses, pick bold blooms on a skirt and pair it with a plain top, or try abstract flowers on a fit-and-flare frock.
Celia Watercolour Floral Hammered Pencil Skirt, $140 at Banana Republic

5. The metallic gleam
Silver is the new gold – it’s time to experiment with futuristic looks from high-shine material like lamé, reflective leather and even shattered mirror shards. This one’s not for the wallflowers.
Warehouse Metallic One-shoulder Dress, $126 at www.zalora.sg  

6. The cool denim
Forget sweat-your-tits-out raw denim. Counter our hot and humid weather with lightweight versions that won’t wear you down.
The Fifth Label Downtown Skirt, $102.79 at www.shopbop.com
Washed Denim Shirt dress, $299 at MICHAEL Michael Kors

7. The tie-dye effect
Haven’t worn a tie-dye tee since the ’90s? It’s time to rediscover your inner flower child with these whimsical paint splashes. But please, stay away from Hawaiian shirts.
GFast Capri Pants, $75 at Gap 

8. The shoulder show-off
It’s the best – and most elegant – way to bare a sliver of skin. Trust us. Off-shoulder or twist-neck pieces are our top pick: they’re sophisticated with just the right amount of sexy to maintain an air of mystery. Cleavage what?
Amanda Uprichard Kiara Top, $228.75 at www.shopbop.com

9. The rainbow stripe
An always-professional closet staple, stripes are venturing in all directions: from horizontal and vertical to thick and thin to scattered and patterned. But our fave? This skirt in multiple colours – it’ll take you from the office to the club.
Three Dots Stacy Skirt, $185.32 at www.shopbop.com

10. The paperbag waist
Create an unusual silhouette with paperbag pants. The high-waisted cinch can be tricky to pull off, so balance the loose fit with a fitted or cropped top. Keep to solid shades if you’re feeling unsure, or pull together a print-on-print clash if you’re up to it.
3.1 Phillip Lim Shorts, price on request at Club 21

11. The fringed end
Look to boho styles for inspiration, but stick to short, trimmed edges for a modern update. Brownie points if you can find fringe on bold plaids – frays give that preppy print a rebellious spirit.
MSGM Coat and Skirt, price on request at Club 21

12. The voluminous sleeve
Puff is in. We’re not talking ’80s shoulder pads – shudder – but oversized, roomy shoulders on jackets. And they’re not as masculine as they sound. Simply work them into your wardrobe with tailored pants or figure-hugging skirts. 
3.1 Phillip Lim Jacket, price on request at Club 21

13. The embellished dress
So what if the festive season is over? Keep the merrymaking revelry going strong with sequins and glitter. It’s the best way to be the life – or light – of the party.
Embellished swing dress, price on request at Kate Spade New York 

14. The wide-leg pant
Comfy yet work-appropriate, these versatile pants can take on a structured shirt or a slouchy knit. Their relaxed fit and casual vibe will have you convinced you’re on a beach getaway, with a cocktail in hand and no worries on your mind. Almost.
Indigo Striped Wide-leg Pants, $199 at MICHAEL Michael Kors

15. The deep blue tone
Dark colours are figure-flattering, we all know that. But if you’re bored of black, add gravitas to your wardrobe with navy or royal blue shades, with or without prints.
Jeanne Pants, $490 at Repetto 

16. The PJ-style suit
Now you can roll out of bed and go straight to Sunday brunch. Okay, we kid. But this androgynous attire can easily take you from day to night with the right accessories. Or wear the lounge-inspired pieces as separates to switch up the prints.
Daisy dot silk shirt and track pants, price on request at Kate Spade New York

17. The patchwork mix
All you ’70s free spirits can rejoice, ’cause the patchwork blend of fabrics, prints and colours is here to stay. Make like a cowgirl and do it in denim, in either eccentric patterns or subtle details. Your pick. 
Light indigo patch drifter girlfriend jeans, $100 at Gap

18. The new classic
You know that LBD you’ve been hoarding since your school days? Toss it aside. It’s time for an update: white is always sleek, stripes are totally on-trend, and an asymmetrical cut gives the dress an edge, literal and otherwise.
Baylee Asymmetrical Sari Dress, $229.90 at Elohim by Sabrina Goh

19. The orange tint
Not an easy shade to wear, which makes it even more eye-grabbing if you can make it work. Choose colour-blocked options, pair with white, or go all-out orange if you relish being the centre of attention.
Contrast Panelled Loose Dress, $189 at Collate the Label

20. The white shirt redux
It’s the revival of the white top, with punkish details like studs, cut-outs and embroidery. Basic doesn’t have to be boring, ladies.
Top, price on request at Shanghai Tang