“April showers, bring May flowers.”

… with that let’s greet April’s rain in style and hope for a gorgeous spring and summer.

10 – A big umbrella - Bella Pagoda Umbrella – B&W Pinwheel: A big pinwheel umbrella is a style statement that keeps you dry. Imagine? Ha. So many times we sacrifice function for fashion, but when it comes to rain that’s just not practical for daily life.

9 – Slim calf rain boots – HUNTER Regen Quilted Rubber Rainboots: Hunters new rain boots are slimmer in the calf, keeping your legs drier and offering a more flattering fit. This black quilted pair scream classy riding boot!

8 – A hooded anorak - Jil Sander Navy Hooded Coat: throw on a water-resistant hooded jacket on gloomy days and you’re ready to roll. This coat takes you to the gym, errands, brunch, and more.

7 – A totally water-proof rain coat - Topshop Blue Shiny Hooded Plastic Mac (also in bright yellow and orange): when it rains, it pours! So be sure to have one coat that will keep you totally dry even when it’s coming down in bucket loads. Go for navy, or a bright red, orange, yellow or blue. Just because the skies are dull, doesn’t mean your outfit has to follow suit.

6 – Cute rain hat - Burberry Cotton Reversible Black Bucket Hat: I have this hat. Rain isn’t so bad when it provides an excuse to wear fun pieces like this. I’ve never worn it with the signature print showing, I prefer the black showing and the tartan for myself. It’s key to keeping your hair dry.

5 – Classic Trench - J.Crew Icon Trench: every woman needs an iconic trench in her wardrobe. The name of J.Crew’s “icon trench” says it all. Whether you investment in Burberry or opt for French Connection – start with a classic beige with basic buttons and a belt (NB: double breasted never goes out of style, but spring 2011′s leather and studded details are a trendy take on a classic look and won’t make it to next season). Longer styles will keep you drier, and are more figure-flattering.

4 – Printed rain boots – Chooka Panthera Leopard Rain Boot: I’ll admit to owning three pairs of rain boots, excessive I know. But I do think there’s room for two pairs in every woman’s wardrobe. One tall black classic (back red zipper and buckles optional). And one printed. My choice of print are Stuart Wietzman’s subtle leopard (not available, similar to these Chooka’s), but I have friends who love a bright polkadot, plaid, striped or just plane BRIGHT. A shorter pair can also be a great addition (great for petite woman). Of course homage must be paid to Burberry’s signature print boots (as classic as their trenches), just please don’t pair these with any of the following: a Burberry signature print umbrella, scarf, or rain hat… anything signature print – you get the idea!

3 – A neutral nail - Essie Chinchilly: Let the rest of your outfit do the talking this month, give your nails a neutral break from the darker grays of winter. Bonus: your mani will stay chip-free longer.

2 – A bright scarf – J.Crew wool gauze scarf: I love banner blue – aka “hot-blue” – as I commonly call it. On cooler April days pop this scarf around your neck and your face will glow. It’s a great color to wrap around the shoulder strap of a purse so it’s always close by.

1 – An eco-friendly tote - Green is Good Tote: Earth Day is April 22nd, go green with a gift that keeps on giving. To the environment – and my future grandchildren – thank you.

“The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.”

- Dolly Parton