Sunshine. Blue skies. Puddles.

It might as well be spring.

Liana Zaborowski of Helene M. holds a red spring blouse from Tibi.

Actually, it’s already early spring at Helene M. in the Old Port, where manager Liana Zaborowski was slashing open boxes of new offerings this afternoon – a red ruffled blouse and an adorable black and white print skirt from Tibi. Another fabulous top by Beth Bowley will be featured in the March Glamour Magazine.

What else is in store for spring?

Liana says the ladylike look will prevail. Wide-leg jeans, enamel bracelets and prints will be favorites. In addition to more from Tibi, the store will add a new, more contemporary line called Madison Marcus. Its new denim line is J Brand, with skinny, wide-leg and boot-cut styles.

The racks at Simply Chic are awakening to a rainbow of colors for resort and spring, with a mix of almost retro prints, crocheted details and solid brights. Co-owner Denise Novotny says we’ll still see metallics this spring, along with Greek prints, nautical styles and trench coats. Don't miss Ibisco's amazing shawl-collar, silk-lined, big-button trench that just arrived, available in black or tan ($190).

Betsy’s is talking color this season too; apple green, royal blue and fuchsia will edge out winter's darker hues. Skirts will be more important than dresses, and 7-inch-inseam shorts are likely to be a big hit. (Note to self: Take those knee-length shorts I never wore to the tailor...) New on the scene this spring will be LnA tees, similar to Velvet, in crew- and deep V-necks. Betsy’s also will carry a new line called Claude Brown, reinvented from In The Wash with a more funky presentation.

Eileen Fisher for spring is arriving now at Amaryllis with a muted palette of cornflower, gray and pumice. Amaryllis will add two new Polish silk and linen lines this spring, Design B and Lili, which feature a more asymmetric, Oska-like look.

Big changes are in store for Spoil Me Rotten, which will expand in February to add a bridal boutique. SMR will carry Alvina Valenta, Modern Trousseau, Anne Barge, Cymbeline Paris, Lee-Ann Belter, Cotton Bridge, Nicole Miller and Michael of Boston. If you’re planning a wedding, don’t miss the store’s bridal show March 6 at the Portland Country Club. Call 773-0743 for more details. The store will still carry its more casual apparel, though probably not the same volume as it does now.

At Chantal, vintage-inspired clothing and embroidered tops are already on tap for spring. Tunic styles are back, but this year they’re a little more tailored. Pinks, reds, electric blue and bright yellow will brighten the store, but navy still will be the predominant color.

Denise Novotny of Simply Chic holds a new spring dress from Milly.

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