By Cathy Hay, news@albertleatribune.com

Spring fashions are blooming with bold colors, floral prints, dresses in any length and pants in any width according to Becky Johnson, owner of the Between Friends boutique on North Broadway.

To celebrate spring and promote fashion she is holding a style show at 5 p.m. Wednesday at the Interchange Wine & Coffee Bistro. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door, if seats are still available.

This night out for girlfriends features fresh fashions modeled by local women; a gourmet appetizer buffet; wine, beer or coffee drink; and 20 percent off Between Friends purchases that night.

Expect to see colors like aqua and kiwi being modeled.

“People are really ready to wear color after winter — too many grays and blacks,” Johnson said.

The art of dressing well requires fitting fashions to your body type and personality. Fortunately, dresses of any length, from mini-dresses to maxi-skirts, are in vogue. Johnson is also seeing pants in any width, from skinny leggings to palazzo pants.

“It’s great because people can wear what looks best on them,” she said.

Scarves are still a fashion hit, with a variety of materials, colors, lengths and patterns to suit any body and any outfit. They’re a great way to freshen a look and can be worn around the neck, waist, head or even a hat brim or purse handle.

The Between Friends boutique is brimming with floral print dresses, casual jean jackets to throw over any outfit, shirts and jackets in vibrant colors, stylish hand bags and bold jewelry.

Fashion magazines and shows often advise women to include these key pieces in their wardrobe: black pants, great-fitting jeans, a suit in a neutral color, an elegant blazer, a white dress shirt, classic pumps, a day dress, a plain white T-shirt, ballet flats and a little black dress. These key pieces can make up several outfits that are easily updated or jazzed up with trendy pieces.

“Our store is more about that fun extra piece, a good jacket or fun top,” Johnson said.

A frugal person herself, Johnson advises investing in pieces that will last two to three years, not just a season.

Johnson’s tips for shopping are:

Try on something outside your comfort zone, something on a whim. The results may surprise you.

Try on clothes to ensure a good fit and look.

Shop with your girlfriends for fun and feedback.

“When I opened the boutique it wasn’t about just a place to shop but an experience. It’s the same with the style show. It’s about a fun, informative and entertaining evening — between friends,” Johnson said.

If you go

What: Spring and Summer Fashion Show with appetizer buffet

When: 5 p.m. Wednesday

Where: Interchange Wine & Coffee Bistro on Broadway

Tickets: $20 in advance at the Between Friends boutique and Interchange Wine & Coffee Bistro, $25 at the door