Spring is an exciting transition for fashionistas, but it can be tough. After months of boots, tights and cozy oversized knits, you suddenly must master a whole slew of new trends. The big challenges this year include many facets of '70s chic—wide-leg pants, platforms, midi- and maxi-length skirts and slinky jersey dresses—in addition to bold prints, bright colors, sheer, a true-waisted silhouette and dolman sleeves. That's not to mention the season's citrus sorbet color palette.

Marc Jacobs Ready-to-Wear Spring 2011

Mastering these trends wouldn't be that tough—you are implicitly stylish Her Campus readers after all!—if it weren't for the enormous strain it put on your budget. That's why we've figured out a way to update our wardrobes for spring with just 5 new pieces! The key to pulling this off is finding clothes that satisfy something from each of the trend categories below and that can be worn in a variety of different ways.

Proenza Schouler Ready-to-Wear Spring 2011

For your shopping convenience, here's a quick reference guide to spring trends:

Shape Trends

Below-the-knee skirts

Natural waistlines

Modest necklines

Dolman sleeves (wide at the armhole, skinny at the wrist and full in between)

Wide-leg pants

Lean lines

Color Trends

The official Spring 2011 color report from Pantone:

Also hot are…

Rusty neutrals

White

Blues

Patterns, patterns, patterns

Look Trends

'70s chic: 1970's style with a modern twist—think classic YSL and Halston meets downtown NYC.

Pajamas: Baggy separates and sack dresses, generally with all-over patterns or sheer elements ala typical pajamas. The trend is a nod to chic dinner and lounge pajamas in early 20th century fashion.

Sheer: Clothes made partially or entirely of sheer fabric.

Mix and match: Patterns on top of patterns! As long as the clothes have similar or overlapping color schemes—the idea is mix and match not mix and clash—combining different prints is super hot this spring.