Spring has just begun, symbolizing growth, renewal and a ritual shedding of winter’s heavy layers. If history has a way of repeating itself — which it always does — this spring promises shorter hemlines, lighter fabrics and a predictable resurgence of floral prints.

“Are you spiritual?” an over-enthusiastic club member asked me Monday night as I left my own club meeting — which in his defense, I am also probably over-enthusiastic about. I took one headphone...