Ancient Athenian philosopher Epictetus once said, “Know first who you are; then adorn yourself accordingly.”

Even though Epictetus was referring to warriors adorning themselves with appropriate battle gear, the same idea applies to spring 2005 fashion, which mixes modern and modest with 70s wedges shoes and hobo bags.

The spring-forward fashion for 2005 is all about independence. A variety of contemporary trends are being intertwined with classic retro pieces by runway designers and national retail stores.

Hollister’s signature California beach-inspired clothing line is premiering a front porch display of models adorned entirely in white. Fresh looks for spring include clean white eyelet accessories and feminine flowing tops as well as the basic white tee-shirt paired with thin white linen or cotton pants.

Coach recently premiered their polka dot collection in their spring mail order catalogue. White leather bags and wristlets ornamented with rainbow colored circular patches of Coach logo fabric will soon be a Spring staple.

Centuries collide as Nordstrom’s Brass Plum puts its modern and modest feminine-looking clothing reminiscent of the 50s mixes with the high wedge sandals and flower-printed bell-sleeved, tunic-inspired tops of the 70s.

If you love classic 50s style, then pastel flower prints, polo shirts, pearls, ballet slippers and tailored pastel suit jackets should fit your style just right. Popular retailers such as Banana Republic, Gap and Brass Plum have all premiered pretty pastel and khaki spring lines. Allure magazines names beige the nail polish color of the season for demure nails to accompany classic looks.

Cheryl Slagle, a sophomore public a relation major at Boston University has a passion for 50s fashion.

“My favorite, the 50s-inspired dresses we’re seeing everywhere from the Prada runway to the ready-to-wear pieces of David Meister, offer a modern twist on an old favorite. Full skirts and fitted bodices flatter all women, as the candy-shoppe colors are to absolutely die for. Bringing us back to a simpler, more feminine time, these looks are perfect for the carefree days of spring.”

If you love hobo bags, wedge sandals, crocheted tops, and Mediterranean and African safari-inspired prints, the 70s inspired spring fashion will tickle your fancy.

Coach and Gap are both selling this season’s must-have hobo bag in a variety of bright and pastel colors in either leather or suede. Green, yellow, white and tan are all popular colors that will be featured in Mediterranean and African safari-inspired lines aimed at an eclectic audience.

As far as 70s-inspired apparel goes high-wedge sandals that tie around the ankle will be this seasons hottest must-have according to the New York Times online edition.

The absolute must-have this season for members of every fashion club are candy colored wide rimmed sunglasses. Inspired by celebrities in tinsel town who shade their eyes from the sun and the paparazzi, these accessories are both functional and fashionable. They are truly the perfect accompaniment to any look whether it be 50s or 70s-inspired.

Winter trends may also transcend into spring fashion predicts Mary Elmore, a sophomore education and psychology major, said, “Right now, during this yuck, icky snowy season the fur lined boots are so perfect, comfort and fashion wise. I miss wearing skirts so I can’t wait till it’s warm enough to wear them. Even skirts look cute with the fur lined boots.”

Look for candy shop colors such as mellow yellows, gleaming greens and demure beiges this spring for a trendy, classic fashion that will be sure to leave you feeling independent and inspired.