If your grandmother couldn’t quite understand Uggs or get behind glamour-grunge, here’s a trend we’re sure she’d advise you to invest in: Dressing like a lady, which is huge news this spring. Raf Simons’ ready-to-wear debut for Dior ushered in the return of the nipped waist and full skirt, while Louis Vuitton brought back the beehive and even the always-edgy Balenciaga threw ruffles into the mix. So how can you get in on the look without going costume-y?

1. Do a matched set. It’s time to look at the suit with a fresh set of eyes–they can easily go beyond the boardroom when you expand your definition. A skirt and jacket (we love this one!) in the same fabric and color add instant polish for a bridal shower, an afternoon tea, or any occasion that demands sophistication.

2. Anchor your prints with traditional pieces. Prints are wilder than ever this season, but there’s a way to wear them with old-fashioned charm. Pair a patterned skirt (like this pretty number by Les Copains) with a crisp white shirt and ankle-strap pumps. Add a structured satchel and pearls, and your traditional-with-a-twist look is complete.

3. Belt a sheath dress. How do you get a ladylike silhouette in an instant? Define that waist! And how do you define that waist in an instant? Add a belt! A jeweled or embellished version, like the one that graces this versatile dress, ups the oopmh factor and sets your look apart.

For even more elegant pieces to parlay into the ultimate polished look, check out our Spring Trend Alert: Dress Like a Lady sale, starting tomorrow at noon!

Good news for leather fans (and we don’t mean the 50 Shades variety!): The hotter-than-ever material has maximum versatility during this in-between-season, making it a go-to for wearing in some seriously unexpected places. Girls’ Night Out is a no-brainer, but the office? Believe it — our styling tricks show you how (photos from left):

1. Make it work at work. A leather skirt will totally fly in a business casual office, as long as you keep the cut conservative (we like this not-so-standard pencil) and the rest of your pieces polished. A turtleneck or a crisp button-down will do the trick.

2. Swap your standard cocktail dress. It’s time to give your satin LBD a break and try a leather dress (like this chic silver number) for an evening event instead. They’re super sophisticated–especially in metallic. Add bright shoes and just try not to get noticed.

3. Welcome spring with black + brights. By late February we get a serious itch to bust out the boldest colors in our closets, but to avoid looking like you’re rushing the season, anchor them with black pieces, like this leather pleated skirt. The same formula works with any bright hue and an edgy black leather piece.

For even more versatile pieces that transcend the seasons, check out our Spring Trend sale of the hottest colored leather styles today at noon!