Getting in gear for spring with fashion

Even if you’re not among the top 1 percent, you can afford a sartorial trip to the tropics. Down a catwalk framed by palm fronds, to the sound of jungle drums, Joseph Altuzarra sent models dressed in prints of flora and fauna in shocking pink, parrot-green and tangerine. Proenza Schouler’s Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, as well as Stella McCartney, looked to the islands for inspiration.

When winter, albeit a mild one, has been with us too long, here are just the clothes and accessories for a much-needed pick-me-up without the airplane ride.

Ÿ Milly designer Michelle Smith partnered with Sperry to create a preppy match of florals and boat shoes. This playful footwear can perk up a dreary day with one caveat. Smaller feet can handle pattern better than larger, so determine whether you’re Cinderella or one of the stepsisters before stepping into a purchase. Milly for Sperry Top-Sider, $125 at select retailers and www.sperrytopsider.com.

Ÿ When spring saunters in, it’s time to lose that warm cinnamon and ginger fragrance. The new L’Eau de Chloe blends distilled rose water, notes of grapefruit and patchouli. The last gives it a needed intensity and sets it apart from run-of-the-mill spring scents. Consider it your invisible lei. L’Eau de Chloe, eau de toilette, 3.4 fluid ounces, $85 at area Saks Fifth Avenue stores and www.saksfifthavenue.com.

Ÿ A riot of palm fronds and multicolored blooms, Top Shop’s Hawaiian floral bomber jacket resembles a vintage postcard and requires attitude to wear it. Unless you’re a master mixer, keep it grounded by choosing a bottom that’s neutral: white or black capris, for example. $96 at www.topshop.com.

Ÿ If you prefer your paradise in small doses, swathe your iPhone 4 in Swash’s bright, textured plastic case. In addition to protecting your phone, the surfboard-and-lei-printed cover will help you find it, and will amuse you and your friends when you do. $70 at www.net-a-porter.com.