By Angela Coufal

Out with the old and in with the new- as 2007 wraps up and 2008 begins, it’s time to clean out the closet and hit the shopping malls for this year’s new and improved fashion trends.

Say goodbye to hobo bags and baby doll tops. The New Year is bringing in the small clutches and sheer, elegant, more form fitting blouses. Neutrals are out and being the brightest crayon in the box is the new trend- the smart way to look is by dressing in loud, bold and bright colors.

Flowers galore! Look for larger than life floral prints while scrambling through department store clothing racks this season. No more dressing like a little girl! This year’s trend is all about a woman’s femininity. Sheath dresses are in along with full A-line skirts and high wasted, wide leg pants, so say good bye to pencil skirts and skinny jeans.

Look for clothing that is embellished with ribbons, bows and lace. While it’s still cold enough for a jacket invest in a nice trench coat and retire that puffer coat that’s hanging in the closet.

Be bright, be bold, be sheik and be feminine this season. The new trend is mature and classy, not young and frumpy. It’s time to over look the polka dots and focus in on floral prints. No more slouching- the year 2008 wants you to be straight, sleek, womanly and sophisticated.