Blue Ruby Boutique in Larimer Square offers designer fashion for all

This spring and summer is all about your inner fashionista, with looks that are fun, fresh and preppy. And we know just the place to find contemporary and one-of-a-kind pieces that will bring your wardrobe up-to-date. Blue Ruby Boutique, which first opened in Littleton in August 2009, has now found a second home in Larimer Square.

The driving force behind Blue Ruby was love: “I love fashion,” said owner Julie Watson.

“I love that you can decorate yourself and tell any story you want. I’m so excited to open a second location, and what could be better than Larimer Square? Everyone on the block is like one huge team; it’s amazing.”

Blue Ruby Boutique carries of-the-moment labels such as Custo Barcelona, Nanette Lepore, Splendid, Da-Nang, AG Jeans, Robert Rodriguez and Rebecca Minkoff. The Larimer shop also will feature men’s clothing from Scotch & Soda.

OFC checked in with Watson just prior to the grand opening in mid April. Here’s what she had to say about what’s in – and what’s out – for the upcoming season.

Top 5 trends to flaunt

>> Sexy Scarves. Scarves are a must-have for both men and women. The variety of styles, colors and patterns currently available is amazing. Don’t just buy any scarf though; find one that shows off your personality.

>> Beaded Belts. Think of the ones you used to buy on family vacations, and you’ll know the look. Let nostalgia take over as you pair one with a white shirt. Or, stir things up and wrap it around the ankle of your boot.

>> Dainty Dresses. Flirty and feminine is back! It’s so much easier to slip on just one article of clothing with a dress, and you can add a few great necklaces and you’re good to go. Just find a style that suits your body type. Watson’s personal favorites are by Custo Barcelona and Nicole Miller.

>> Preppy Palates. Pull off the preppy look with pale-colored cotton trousers, button-down blouses, plaid belts and flat shoes. It’s a sure-fire way to display a fun and crisp style.

>> Bracelets Galore. Just keep adding them to your wrist and stacking them up. And guys: Don’t be afraid to try this trend. It’s just fashion, and it’s supposed to be fun!

Top 5 trends to ditch ASAP

>> Grungy Garb. Gag. Who ever thought that looked good? Ladies and gents, let’s try to look presentable.

>> Whale Tales. Please, ladies. If your jeans are so low that we can see your thong, then it’s time for a double take in the mirror.

>> Wearable Words. Sure, we love a good funny T-shirt now and then, but let your personality do the talking instead.

>> Feathered Locks. While they were all the rage for a spell, feathers are for the birds.

>> Nasty Neon. We’re all for color, but no one over the age of 20 should be sporting neon – except maybe at the beach, and that’s still a big maybe.

Top 5 trends to keep your eyes on

>> Preppy Persists. This trend will stay huge even after the summer, so plan on adding a few fitted, colored cotton blazers to your wardrobe. They’re great to throw over a dress or with trousers for a day-to-night look. Watson has her eyes on a pink Scotch & Soda blazer that she saw coming out soon.

>> White Blouses and Button-Downs. Coco Chanel was right when she said that white brightens your face and everyone looks good in it. Plus, they’re a wardrobe staple and they’re everywhere for fall. Slip one on with cute shorts and a blazer, and you’ll be set.

>> ’50s-Inspired Shoes. Men and women should both be on the lookout for saddle shoes and chinos.

>> Versatile Scarves. Scarves are even making their way into being a hot hair accessory. Watson suggests looking on Pinterest for styles and instructions on how to make these looks work in your hair.

>> Dark-Wash Denim. Think of your dark denim as the perfect complement to the clean, crisp look that is now in style. Pair them with a solid-colored, fitted cotton button-down, a pair of Jimmy Choo’s nude patent-leather espadrilles and a scarf worn as a belt.

Blue Ruby Boutique is located at 1420 Larimer St. Online at bluerubydesign.com or call 303-534-4255.