This season, a little refinement is in order as designers showcase lady-like clothing and accessories sure to bring out the finishing school in all of us. Straight from the Spring/Summer 2012 Prada runway, this polished trend blends understated elegance with glamorously demure luxury in delicate fabrics, flattering silhouettes, and sumptuous hues impossible to resist. For high style accents, complete your look with royalty-inspired statement jewelry, a classic handbag in a feminine tone, and sleek, subtle heels. As it turns out fashionistas, our mothers were right: we should act like ladies. At least, style-wise.

1. Style Inspiration: Prada Spring 2012 Ready-to-Wear, courtesy of Style.com

2. Tibi Pleated Jersey Dress, $345 US, available at Net-a-Porter 

3. Sam Edelman Orly Patent Pumps, $124, available at Shopbop 

4. J.Crew Edie Purse, $274

5. BCBG MaxAzria Floral Bouquet Statement Necklace, $118

By: Elizabeth Pryde, Vancouver

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