And purple, blue, green and a host of other eye-popping colors that often fall by the wayside when choosing a dress.

Why is it that we feel so safe in black? It's flattering, of course. But what does it say about you? It doesn't take Anna Wintour to toss on a black dress, pearls and heels. You can do better than that.

Spring and summer are a time for rebirth, and it's time for you to gain a fresh perspective about your personal style. Out with the old, in with the bold.

For the Spring 2009 fashion shows in New York City, designers showed a rainbow of colors paired with sleek jackets, bold jewelry and statement shoes.

When choosing a dress, keep the shape simple, like a basic shift that hugs your curves in all the right places. Then take a cue from the likes of Nanette Lepore, Lela Rose and Peter Som, and try one of these trends for a summer wedding or night out:

• Bright neon colors of pink, yellow, orange and green
• Textured, organic materials
• Sequins (more as a detail than a Solid Gold dancer, please)
• Color blocking in bold hues
• Bohemian-style prints
• Floral, floral and more floral

Using accessories to highlight your dress is a must to pull off this season's looks. Try these popular and chic choices for an instant update:

• Long, layered and chunky necklaces
• Oversize handbags in hot spring colors like turquoise and lavender
• Large, layered bangles
• Waist-cinching or relaxed, low-slung belts
• Shoes that command attention: lace-up flat and gladiator sandals; nude, round-toe platform pumps or brightly colored Gucci-inspired platform heels with extras like buckles and metallic trim.

For those chilly nights, please, toss the "wrap." (Side note: Wraps are as outdated as capri pants and Crocs.) Instead, opt for a fitted military-style jacket, menswear-inspired blazer or chic trench.

Get more ideas for summer fashion by checking out Fox 6 WakeUp News Thursday, May 14, at 8:15 a.m., when I'll be dishing on summer fashion.