As with nature, fashion collections explode with life and colour after the winter season. Spring on the runways is often celebrated with painterly prints and fresh florals, and this season is no different.

At Miu Miu, swallows soar over slim-cut pants and felines stalk over blouse collars, while abstract prints with an Asian slant take centrestage on Dries Van Noten's drapey dresses and sarong skirts.

Even bags are blooming - both Chanel and Fendi, for example, are sending out designs that visibly embrace spring. Chanel's stunning quilted classic flap for the season is adorned with handmade posies from the Lemarie atelier, while Fendi's Skin Collection tote comes with an interchangeable linen or lace covering that's richly embroidered with flowers.

Such a wealth of patterns and colours may seem intimidating when it comes to mixing and matching, but here's the key: mash and clash any way you like - then wear with a dash of attitude.

This article was first published in The Business Times.