With the promise of more day-to-day normalcy on the horizon, we thought we’d return to our own “normal” and bring back our popular seasonal “Top Ten” list.
First created over two decades ago to welcome each season, we are frequently told how much you all love (and miss!) them. As we get ready to step out with a little more style in the days ahead, we hope this list motivates you to cast a fresh eye on your own wardrobe and make some good (and happy!) choices for yourself — Enjoy!
1. Simply Sweaters
Sweaters are great for temperature control as well as video calls, and can take you from your desk indoors to the outdoors seamlessly. A pop of color, polished prints and interesting sleeve details can level-up your style instantly. Add a neckerchief, modern necklace, or bold earring to a simple neckline for on-trend visual interest.
2. Statement Tops
A one-stop-shop to dress for a “Zoom” day, look for details such as ruffles, smocked neck styles, scrunching, sleeve interest and layered fabric. Solids work best on screen, though sophisticated prints can add style and flare.
3. Wide Leg Pants – Loosen Up!
It’s time to loosen up! Relax your look with a wider leg. High rise waists, fuller leg silhouettes, and slouch can tone down your appearance without looking sloppy. Try cropped styles and pair with everything from tall boots to sneakers and sandals. A shorter top will balance your look.
4. Add a little color (or a lot!)
Be bold with bright colors or mellow out with spring pastels in “sherbet” tones. Monochromatic looks (single color or tone) from head to toe create vertical appeal. Think pink, yellow and green hues to brighten up your look. Stock up on tops, shirts, bags, shoes and other accessories in the same shade of each color and you will get many looks with fewer pieces than you ever imagined—promise!
5. Eliminate Stress with the Versatile Dress
Choose styles that work on their own or that can be paired with jackets, sweaters and a variety of shawls, wraps and jewelry for extra versatility. Knits and other fabrics with a little “give and stretch” often provide a better fit and extra comfort. Wear with booties, flats, fashion sneakers or sandals. “House” dresses also continue to rock this season!
6. Layer Up Effectively
Layers in a variety of colors provide warmth and style. Sweaters, blouses, shells with a variety of flattering necklines, camisoles, shirts, sweaters and jackets can be combined in a myriad of ways to give you climate control and a polished appearance.
7. Love Your Legwear
When you’re not quite ready to go bare, add in spring legwear! Footless tights lighten up dresses and skirts and pair well with both pointed toe and ballet flats as well as heels and spring booties. Fun socks can bridge the gap between boot and cuff, and provide coverage, support and style.
8. Put Some Spring in your Step
This season, try comfortable clogs, mules, fashion sneakers, and flatforms. Sandals get an update with asymmetric strap and embellishments.
9. Spring Jewelry & Accessories – Natural Elements
Pay attention to buttons, zippers, stitching and other details on clothes and accessories as you assemble your outfits. Typically, it takes a minimum of three similar metals, colors or other details to pull a look together. Chunky chains, mixed metals, pearls, beads, resin and other natural elements will enhance your style without being distracting.
10. Carry All in Style
In addition to jewelry, scarves and belts, bags, totes and shoes should enhance—not distract—from your style. Choose a style and shape that works for you: crossbody, market tote, bucket bag, backpack, belt bags. Seek out elements that suit your style like fringe, raffia, wicker, edgy hardware, decorative straps and more.
Last Word: Don’t Make Outerwear an Afterthought.
Coats for rainy days and when it’s just plain cold are a necessity. Wraps and shawls also come in handy. Be sure you have an umbrella, raincoat and rain boots at the ready for when you need them. You’ll be ready for anything!