• SLIDESHOW: Spring fashion

Name: Linda Marshall, Henrico County

Age: 57

Occupation: case advocate, IRS

Personal Style: individual. "I don't like to look like everyone else."

Store: Macy's Regency Square

The possibilities: Floral-print (white, black, gray, pink and red) pleated skirt. She liked the colors, but normally wouldn't wear pleats. Silk short-sleeve top in purple; she could wear it with the black skirt and liked the texture, but didn't like the short sleeves. She was also attracted to this season's bright green garments.

Her choice: Hot pink blouse with elbow-length sleeves (on sale for $51.75); black skirt with bright embroidery (on sale for $44.50)

Price tag: $96.25

Why she chose what she did: The blouse's vibrant pink was so eye-catching. She loved the color and the elbow-length sleeves, which she said covered parts of her arms she doesn't like to show. She also liked the grays in the skirt and the way the longer length flows past the knee, creating a more feminine look. "It makes me feel young and vibrant."

How it would work into her wardrobe: The outfit will be worn for a dinner date with her husband of almost 41 years, to go out with girlfriends, to church and to work. "I feel it can be dressed up or down. The skirt is very versatile with the colored embroidery, I can use with blouses of different colors to get more wear. The blouse I will be able to use with other skirts or pants."

What she plans to spend on spring fashions this year: "I usually get a few outfits, between $300 and $500. That's what I usually end up spending." She would probably spend 50 percent of her tax rebate on clothing. - Luz Lazo