Spring Trend: Paradise Found

White lapel sleeveless shirt $36.64, SheInside; Illesteva Leonard sunglasses $165, net-a-porter;  Le Silla black pumps R4 776, STYLEBOP.com; Tropical mini skirt £14.99, Mango.

Bold, tropical prints and hothouse florals are the second in this series of Spring/Summer 2012 trends.  These bold, primary prints are hitting the South African shores and are a refreshing change from the pastel, micro-floral designs of the last few seasons.

The prints are available in a host of themes, channeling the palm trees of Florida, the hibiscus of Hawaii and of course, the South African sunset,  all available in an array of dark, soft, busy and modest prints to suit your personal style.

Lucky Magazine April 2012

The tropical print is, however, a dangerous one to pull off and comes with a few strict rules. . .

Most of the tropical print items you'll find will be trendy, short-lived designs that'll enhance and bring joy to you all season, but I'm afraid that's as long as they'll last.  Classic tropical prints that withstand from season to season are few and far between, but find one and you'll be silly not to invest.

To help survive this craze - and keep your bank account happy - look for contemporary, happy tropical prints at stores like Mr Price, Foschini, Woolworths or Fashion Express.  This will ensure your bank account will experience very little pain while still allowing you the pleasure of basking in your equatorial ensemble.

Versace Stampa Collection

If you happen upon a more lasting item from stores like Jo Borkett, Mango or Gucci, investing isn't a bad idea.  It might hurt you now, but your piece(s) will last for seasons to come.  Just ensure you make the right choices when it comes to investing in your tropical print.  Don't let the promise of exotic adventures fool you, make sure the cut is classic, the item looks great on and whether or not you can see the print lasting.

Pair your tropical look with black or other neutral accents to achieve a look that's more luxe and less luau.  The brave are more than welcome to mix prints or even introduce animal prints to spice things up, but be warned, this isn't an easy look to pull off.

Givenchy SS 2012

If you're not that into the trend or you're worried about spending money on a short romance, look for tropical inspired accessories instead.  Woven clutches, hats, handbags and wedges are great neutral items to play around with or tropical inspired accessories like parrot rings, leafy pendants or printed studs are great substitutes for your summer mood.

Ladies who are conscious of their legs shouldn't go the printed trouser/leggings route - they'll only emphasise your insecurities.  Instead, go for bold, printed blazers or elegantly cut skirts to embrace the trend and your shape.  For girls who can pull off the printed leg, pair the bold look with monochromatic accessories, being careful not to over-do the trend.

If you're still confused about the trend, Elle.com has separated the look into four different styles. So whether you're a beach bum, a reggae lover, a safari stylista or a tropical goddess, it's all there.