Although we live in the perpetual rain of the Northwest, brightening up your clothing with fresh new colors is the perfect way to make the transition from winter to spring.

If you’re like me, I enjoy a little color without looking like a flower, so below you will find some tips for incorporating spring colors appropriately into your wardrobe.

Choose one color to wear each day. In the first week of school I’ve already seen too many people who get overzealous with the sunshine and are wearing yellow, pink and turquoise all in the same outfit.

Although all those colors are lovely, picking just one will make your outfit shine instead of blind.

Decide how you want to wear colors as well. Are you going to wear a colorful T-shirt, or maybe pack your books in a spring bag? Whatever the outfit, don’t be afraid to experiment.

I enjoy wearing bright colored shirts with jeans and a pair of neutral flats; this sends the message that spring is here without someone thinking they’re in the tropics.

Nordstrom has some very affordable and cute T-shirts that are perfect for the spring and the summer. They are about $16 each, and are great with a cardigan, jeans and a pair of wedges or a simple skirt and flip-flops.

Speaking of shoes, they are a great way to get that spring pop into your outfit.

If flip-flops are a too casual, then try a nice pair of flats; they’re comfortable for your feet but also add class to any outfit. Both Target and Old Navy have a large selection of reasonably priced flats in solid colors and in prints. They range from $20-$30 per pair.

Prints and patterns are another great way to spruce up your spring wardrobe. Although I should caution anyone wearing a print to choose just one, they are great really for any season.

Florals are also popular right now. Whether it is in a handbag, a blouse or a dress, you can wear florals without looking like a bouquet.

American Eagle is incorporating this trend right now with floral blouses and adorable floral dresses, which work wonders in a class or on a date. Pair it with a cute pair of flats, and you’ll be the most stylish person on campus.

If you would rather keep spring from showing on your body and instead adorn your books, try using a colorful school bag. It’s a quick easy way to liven up a dull outfit and doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg.

Forever 21 has many cute colorful bags for under $30. If you like bright colors, they definitely have it there, along with prints and patterns in canvas or faux leather.

After school is out, your cute colorful bag can still be used either for a day of shopping or for a day at the beach.

Accessories are another route for adding color to your outfits. Ditch the earth tones and opt instead for a patent leather headband or a sparkly barrette.

These can be found at the drugstore or at any department store, making it an easy and inexpensive way to put spring in your wardrobe.

However you choose to spring up your outfits, just remember not to be afraid to experiment with color and have fun with the new season.

[Reach reporter Stephanie Small at arts@thedaily.washington.edu.]