There’s a revival of energy when it comes to spring. We also start to see the emergence of bright colours and lighter fabrics as the sun makes a more permanent stay. This week Holt Renfrew in Vancouver welcomed their vice president and fashion editor Lisa Tant from Toronto to bring the energy to the west coast. Tant began her career here in Vancouver and made a move to Flare Magazine as chief editor for eight years before accepting her position at Holt.

I had the opportunity to catch up with Tant to talk about her new role and what we can expect for spring 2013. Tant tells us that spring will be all about self-expression and mixing patterns. Mainly drawn from the recent popularity of street style blogs and publications, it allows for people to be creative when it comes to taking risks with fashion.

Tant squirmed as I asked her what was her one must have piece for spring. However, difficult it is to narrow it down to one piece, her must have piece includes a single sole shoe with no platform that allows for comfort and versatility for a day to night look. Tant also tells us that she is setting her sights on Paris Fashion Week next season where she will be eager to see designers Givenchy and Chanel. It is especially important for Tant that consumers and readers are brought the story and inspiration behind the collections they feature.

During the presentation, Tant revealed three main spring trends:

Modern geometry: This theme is all about strong and bold graphics. Black and white is prominent in many designers’ collection but colour still has its presence.

Tip: Consider a great stripe dress. Find something comfortable and pick patterns that are flattering to your figure. If you feel confident in something it makes all the difference. Buy something you can wear for multiple occasions.

Designer we love: Michael Kors and Dolce & Gabbana

Print Remix: The idea behind this is to mix prints and patterns. It may feel odd at first to wear print but experiment and you may find a great pairing.

Tip: Mix similar tones together. Find common elements between garments and pair it together. Shoes are also a great way to change a look. You can wear the same dress but swap heels for flats between a day to night look.

Designers we love: Akris and Phillip Lim

In the clear: A natural tone, sheer fabrics and cutouts are central to this theme. White is also taking centre stage when it comes to spring. As Tant said “for summer take your little white dress out.” White is not just for before Labour Day anymore.

Tip: Shoulder cutouts are often flattering on a woman. Layer a sheer fabric over a printed blouse or top. Look out for lots of sheer necklines and fresh looks for spring. Mix textures to add some dimension and contrast instead of going straight for colour.

Designers we love: Alexander Wang, Victoria Beckham, Emilio Pucci and Roberto Cavalli.

Tant also left us with a great story about her meeting with ex Spice Girl turned designer Victoria Beckham. Tant asked, “Victoria, singer or designer? Which do you prefer?” Beckham answered, “In case you haven’t noticed, I’m no Mariah Carey. You stick with what you’re good at.”

Amy Yew is a contributing columnist at Vancouver Courier. Tell us what you think and submit any questions you have to amyvancouvercourier@gmail.com. You can also tweet your thoughts on Twitter @AmyYew.