20 Spring Wardrobe Must-Haves

#1 Sorbet Color.
Why is it a Find? The beautiful mint color of this 100% cotton Free People sweater flatters most every skin tone, and really highlights the cotton candy colors of the season that are sure to make you smile.
Wear it with: The easy cut of this sweater can be worn with all of your casual staples – shorts, skinny or boyfriend jeans, even leggings. You can throw it on over a tank top, or wear it on its own for a sexier, laidback vibe. The cotton knit is substantial, giving it a lovely drape and weight that works for any air conditioned mall or movie theater, and all of your evening walks.
Fit Tip: Free People’s sweaters are generally cut for a comfy, oversized fit and that is true with this one. If you are between sizes, you can size down and still have a loose fit.
Alternatives: Free People also has a loose stitched crewneck with a slouchy fit in equally pretty colors - we love the chartreuse yellow. J.Crew uses a similarly vibrant teal green in a work-ready sheath dress that is perfect for an upscale brunch, too.

#2 Sorbet Color.
Why is it a Find? Another way to bring in the pretty mid-tone pastels of the season, these AG jeans are just the right shade to wear some color in your jeans. The color isn’t bright, and the material is seriously soft and stretchy – the perfect combination for a flattering pair of skinnies.
Wear it with: While these jeans look fabulous with all of your neutral tops, including chambray and denim, they are also so pretty with prints and patterns that coordinate with pink. The fabric has a sateen feel and sulfur wash treatment, so the color is subtle for easy coordinating.
Fit Tip: AG has a contemporary fit that isn’t too skinny – more along the lines of Joe’s Jeans than Rag & Bone. Go with your normal size, available in sizes 23-32, with a slightly higher rise that sits comfortably at the waist to avoid any muffin top. The fabric has a lot of comfy stretch, and is lighter in weight for warm weather comfort and ease.
Alternatives: We are sending you to AG’s site through the ‘shop it’ button because they have the best images of these jeans and offer free shipping + easy returns with a pre-paid label. But Zappos and Shopbop carry it too, with free shipping + free returns. Love the color, but not looking for jeans? Ann Taylor's v-neck top has an easy fit and is perfect for work and dinner. And Eliza J’s super flattering fit and flare sleeveless dress is beautifully simple.

#3 Fresh Florals.
Why is it a Find? Eliza J’s fresh take on floral can win over even the most anti-floral of ladies. The sparse pattern, interwoven with stripes, creates a graphic combination that works perfectly with the fit-and-flare shape of this sweater dress to highlight your best assets.
Wear it with: White dresses can be intimidating, but this dress will alleviate any fears. The sweater knit has wonderful drape and enough weight that there is no unflattering cling. The black-and-white color combination makes it easy to wear with your favorite black heels or ballet flats for the office, and can also be perked up with a splash of colorful sandals for a fun outing.
Fit Tip: This Eliza J dress has a modern fit, available in XS-XL, with great armhole size to ensure your bra won’t show. We find the length hits just around the knee on most ladies.
Alternatives: For a softer color and dressier alternative, this pale blue ¾ sleeve Eliza J dress has a stitched down pleat detail along the waist and hips that seriously slims, appropriate for a cocktail party or wedding. On the more casual side, J.Crew’s stripe and floral long sleeve tee is truly a work of art.

#4 Fresh Florals.
Why is it a Find? Maxi shirt dresses are re-emerging and Banana Republic really nailed it with this floral version. The colors are rich, the cut is fabulous, and it’s even lined for an upscale feel without an upscale price tag.
Wear it with: This dress doesn’t need much. A delicate necklace or earrings are all the jewelry you need. And you can be really versatile with your footwear. Ballet flats or block heel pumps will make it work ready. Strappy sandals give it a feminine feel for any outing, while white sneakers will give this dress a sporty, casual feel.
Fit Tip: Banana Republic has a modern fit. In your normal size, available in sizes 0-16 (Regular, Tall, Petite) this will lay smoothly across your hips and chest without any button-pulling.
Alternatives: This dress is going fast. Banana Republic has another bold floral that we’re big fans of, using navy and red. It’s offered in a skirt, bell sleeve top, and simple short sleeve a-line dress. If you like the longer silhouette, they also have an airy, sleeveless, white and green floral maxi dress.

#5 Shoulder Showoff.
Why is it a Find? As Donna Karan has said about showing off a lady’s shoulders, “It's the one place that is perfect on every woman's body. No one ever says, 'I have fat shoulders.’" So true. This season, the shoulder-baring craze gets even better, as it evolves to include peek-a-boo styles, like this Anthropologie tee that allows for a regular bra and a little more coverage.
Wear it with: The stitch detail around the neckline and shoulders brighten up the featured navy, and really pops with white jeans or shorts. But this neutral color works with everything – pair it with your favorite tan, grey, or olive bottoms – and of course, denim. It’s also really pretty with pink.
Fit Tip: The cut of this updated cotton tee is easy with a slight a-line shape so it won’t cling and can be worn tucked in – or not. In sizes XXS-XL, and Petite, the proportions are spot-on.
Alternatives: This tee is also available in a pretty, soft pink through the ‘shop it’ button. Ella Moss’ floral dress is a fun alternative for a day of brunching and sunny day fun that will effortlessly work straight through dinner.

#6 Shoulder Showoff.
Why is it a Find? Ella Moss gives the shoulder baring trend a sexy, night-out look, while still providing coverage to accommodate a standard bra. Just lovely – and so practically flattering – for any date night or an evening of drinks with the girls.
Wear it with: The diagonal cut of the hem ensures a slimming silhouette, so this blouse is beautiful with any of your skinny jeans or trousers. Add heels for a truly sexy look. While a statement choker absolutely works, we love just adding a chunky bracelet or pair of earrings to really show off the design of this top.
Fit Tip: Ella Moss is a contemporary brand, but this top has a loose cut that is perfectly concealing and super comfortable.
Alternatives: This blouse also comes in an upscale ivory color through the ‘shop it’ button. Alternatively, Cinq a Sept’s contemporary take on a one-shoulder fitted jacket is one of our favorite pieces of the season – insanely chic with simple slim trousers, a pencil skirt, or a great pair of jeans. There is no denying you’d turn heads and feel utterly sophisticated in this gorgeous Find. Alternatively, Ella Moss also did a true one-shoulder top that is beautifully easy with a strapless bra and has a smocked waist to create wonderful shape and skim the hips with ease.

#7 Ruffle Revolution.
Why is it a Find? Ruffles are front and center this season. But, let’s face it, they can become a bit fussy-looking, especially once you’re out of your teen years. And that’s why we love this interpretation from J. Crew. They did a similar style last year that sold out in a flash, so don’t let this one pass you by.
Wear it with: The featured orangey red color adds wonderful Spring pop to pair with any of your slim trousers or skirts for a day at the office. On a more casual day, this ponte top dresses up a pair of dark or white jeans. The asymmetrical stitching hugs the waist and creates a peplum effect that is wonderfully becoming.
Fit Tip: This is cut in J. Crew’s typically modern fit, sizes XXS-XL. It is tailored but not too trim, so you can go with your normal size and get a beautiful fit that will comfortably highlight your waist and slim your hips. The short sleeve provides the perfect arm coverage, too.
Alternatives: It comes in a deep charcoal grey and sophisticated ivory through the ‘shop it’ button, as well. For a dressier option, Joie’s lace ¾ sleeve top has a lovely peplum that also highlights the waist and conceals the hips, whether you choose to wear it with a pair of flowing, wide leg trousers or slim skirt.

#8 Ruffle Revolution.
Why is it a Find? Another subtle, lady-like, and timeless way to “do” the ruffle trend, this chambray Joie top is casual day perfection. Sure, the ruffle makes this top a little more special than a basic denim shirt, but it also creates just the right subtle volume around your shoulders to seriously compliment any lady’s upper arms and shoulders – even if you don’t normally like showing them off.
Wear it with: There’s not much you can’t wear with this top. It’s basically a neutral, and looks lovely with patterned skirts, colorful shorts, white or dark jeans, and even works as a layer under a blazer to give your suits a more casual feel – ideal for the warmer months.
Fit Tip: Joie is one of our favorite brands (and yours) thanks to its modern fit that provides some ease in the body without being oversized. Go with your normal size in XXS-L. If you are often between sizes, you can size down.
Alternatives: J.Crew’s silk bracelet-length bell-sleeve top offers a work-ready alternative in an array of colors that also highlights the ruffle fashion of the season.

#9 Effortless Shapes.
Why is it a Find? Pants take on fluid and easy shapes that are just right for the warmer months. Far from boring, details like buttons or piping give them life, and these Theory chinos balance it all in the brand’s perfectly subtle and upscale aesthetic.
Wear it with: The waist has 4 sailor-inspired buttons across the front that really highlight your waist when you tuck in a loose-fitting tee or lightweight linen button down. But as you can see in this picture and through the ‘shop it’ button, don’t feel tied to showing those buttons off. You can also wear tops untucked with just as much finesse. Flats, sandals, and sneakers all look just right.
Fit Tip: Theory has a contemporary fit and these pants have a bit of a higher rise meant to sit at the smallest part of your waist to properly balance the fuller leg.
Alternatives: Theory also made these pants in a fabulous tan/khaki through the ‘shop it’ button. J.Crew’s nautically inspired full-length chinos are a fashionable alternative that really shows off the waist, with a back tie detail to ensure their modern fit is just right – and they come in a fun stripe, too.

#10 Effortless Shapes.
Why is it a Find? The crepe fabric of these Vince trousers give them a draped and relaxed silhouette, yet decidedly polished vibe, that effortlessly exemplifies this season’s mix of high-and-low. And we’d expect nothing less from Vince, known for their simply posh and laidback pieces.
Wear it with: In the image shown, you can see how to style these pants with sneakers for a casual Friday and weekend look – just add your favorite tee or tank. For an office day, they look just right with a crisp button down (we love just tucking in a bit of the front) or tailored cotton sweater and a pair of lace-up oxfords, loafers, or ballet flats. The wider leg looks best when it just skims the ground, so bring your preferred shoes to the tailor if you need to get them shortened.
Fit Tip: . Like many Vince pieces, these trousers are contemporary in style yet modern in fit – loose and easy. Available in sizes XS-L, size down if you are often between sizes. The higher rise is meant to sit at the natural waist to show off the menswear inspiration of the pleat detail. You can see that in the image from Saks Fifth Avenue  that we are showing here. And ladies, thanks to the elastic at the back of the waist and easy fit, you do not need to worry about these pleats pulling. In fact, they are incredibly slimming.
Alternatives: These pants come in chic ivory through the ‘shop it’ button, too. And Everlane has a stylish, cropped version that really adds a contemporary feel totally appropriate for the office. Lafayette 148 New York’s flare leg trousers are a beautiful option for those looking for a more tailored and classic take in a variety of similarly lovely neutrals. Vince also did a more laidback, cropped version that is so weekend right – they take your sweats to a whole new level. Lastly, Nic+Zoe gets in on the casual game with a loose, full-length version. 

#11 Flirty Skirts.
Why is it a Find? Both length and feminine details define skirts for the season. Midi-lengths are fresher than ever, hitting just around the calf. Ruching, ruffles, and slits also define the silhouette. Rebecca Minkoff’s floral skirt takes some truly high-end designer inspiration for this well-made skirt – without the designer price tag.
Wear it with: This skirt is lined to about mid-thigh, so you get to show off the ruched detail and lightweight fabric, while leaving all the necessary things to the imagination. The lining also helps keep things smooth and slimming along the hip and behind area, so you can tuck in a silk blouse or slim sweater with confidence. Add a pretty pair of heeled sandals, and you’ve got a great look for a cocktail party or night out. Through the ‘shop it’ button, you can also see how cool this skirt looks when worn casually with a tee and sneakers.
Fit Tip: Rebecca Minkoff has a contemporary fit that isn’t too trim in your normal size. The gathered detail can be adjusted to show more – or less – leg. This also creates some flexibility with the length, so it works without tailoring on petite ladies, too.
Alternatives: Bloomingdale's might still have some if your size is already sold out through the 'shop it' button at Nordstrom. Another way to play with pleating and ruched detail in a midi-length skirt is with J. Crew’s paper-bag waist striped skirt. It has a hidden elastic in the waist ensuring a great fit, and the shirting stripe fabric really sets it apart. It comes in solid, too, and the both add instant style to any fitted tee or tank.

#12 Flirty Skirts.
Why is it a Find? The side slits and modern midi-length of this Nic+Zoe pull-on skirt give a comfortable basic an update that is just right for the season.
Wear it with: The perfect refresh to your favorite black skirt, the mid-calf length and simply timeless shape looks great on everyone – and works with most everything. The pull-on waistband is flat, with concealed elastic ease, so you can tuck in a top if you wish. Layer a tailored cardigan for the office. Or pair it with a stylish top for a lovely night out option.
Fit Tip: The stretchy fabric and pull-on styling is seasonless and oh-so comfortable. It is even lined. The silhouette is straight, but the slits keep it from being too form-fitting – the perfect middle ground ensuring it’s not too voluminous or structured.
Alternatives: Knife pleat skirts are everywhere this season, but they can be tricky to wear. This Nic+Zoe skirt has vertical raised seams to create a similar look in a much more forgiving and flattering way.

#13 Raw/Unfinished Denim Edges.
Why is it a Find? Special details are what makes jeans, well, special this season. The raw hem and open side split are not only practical if you want to make any length alterations on your own, they create a seriously flattering small flare to the bottom of these Joe’s jeans. The result is a shape that creates perfect balance to minimize the hip area and a lengthening effect that even further plays off the higher rise that sits at your natural waist. Don’t we all want to look like we’ve got legs that go on for days?
Wear it with: Jeans go with everything these days, and that’s certainly true here. Tees, tanks, date night tops, and slouchy sweaters/sweatshirts all look great. We love a pair of wedges or block heels with them to further lengthen the leg and show off the hem details. But if you prefer flats, casual sandals and sneakers look great, too.
Fit Tip: Joe’s is one of our favorite denim brands because the fit is amazing for most every body type. A contemporary brand, they offer consistently updated style, and do it in a cut that is not super small. If you are between sizes, you can size up on this style, but your normal Joe’s size should fit just fine on most. These jeans should just skim the ground, and if you need to shorten them, you can absolutely do it yourself. Just cut them straight with a scissor, and then wash them (cold, no dryer) to get the frayed finish.
Alternatives: AG’s cropped style has a darker wash and released hem, in a similar fit - another flattering way to try the unfinished hem look in a more upscale way. And ladies, they come in Petite, too.

#14 Raw/Unfinished Denim Edges.
Why is it a Find? Raw denim finishes aren't just found on jeans. One of our favorite ways to bring the trend in to your look is with these sandals. This version from Mystique looks just as stylish – and is just as comfortable – as some of the more expensive versions out there.
Wear it with: Just like your favorite jeans, these sandals work with all of your casual wear, with the bonus of also adding just the right flare to your sundresses and shorts. Perfect with any color, these even work with denim.
Fit Tip: They come in full sizes only, so we recommend sizing up if you are between sizes.
Alternatives: These also come in a lighter blue denim that read like a pretty sky blue, through the ‘shop it’ button.

#15 Utilitarian Ease.
Why is it a Find? As the athleisure trend continues, Spring adds a more ladylike and refined version to it, giving us a little more versatility and practical ways to incorporate this super comfy trend - without LOOKING like we’re only about comfort. Nic+Zoe’s ponte pants have the pull-on styling and ease of your favorite leggings, with a faux fly and polished, flat waistband for a truly pant-like look.
Wear it with: The featured heather grey color is a subtle nod to the trend that works as a lovely neutral to pair with any Spring color. These pants are so cute with Anthropologie’s updated version of a short-sleeve pale blue sweatshirt that has a longer hem in the back and high-hip length in the front. Of course, a tunic, cotton sweater or denim button down look just as good, when you want a less casual feel. Anything from sneakers or espadrilles to sandals or ballet flats will finish the look.
Fit Tip: Nic+Zoe’s modern fit is a win for every lady, making it a consistent favorite. In sizes 2-16, go with your normal size.
Alternatives: They come in charcoal grey and black through the ‘shop it’ button, too. Anthropologie has a pale blue silk pair of joggers that is another way to play with the athletic trend and give it a more lady-like feel.

#16 Utilitarian Ease.
Why is it a Find? Military and nautical inspiration also take utilitarian style to a whole new level, and nothing is more timeless than a good Breton stripe. (Named after the French navy seaman in Brittany, France who first wore it in the 1800’s.) Everlane’s interpretation is one of our favorites, thanks to the solid navy blocks along the top and bottom of this sleeveless cotton sweater. It keeps the stripe from being too busy, just accentuating the chest area, while the slimming dark color lays over the hip and behind area.
Wear it with: A slit detail along the side seams make this an easy sweater to wear untucked over slim white pants or a colored pair of cotton pants.
Fit Tip: Everlane’s modern fit isn’t too trim and this 100% cotton sweater has fine ribbing in it to create a slim silhouette meant to just skim the torso in your normal size – available in sizes XS-L.
Alternatives: Everlane offers this stripe in a long sleeve cotton sweater version, as well as a relaxed tee with a ¾ length sleeve. And they’re not the only ones doing this nautically-inspired Breton stripe this season. Our other favorites are Stateside's short-sleeve tee with a ruched waist detail and Eliza J’s dress. They all have a modern fit that works for most every lady.

#17 New Shoes.
Why is it a Find? Interesting fabrics are one of the key defining updates to lady’s footwear this season. There are no rules – velvet and suede are just as appropriate this season as they are in Fall and Winter. And in Spring-ready hues, like this lovely mid-tone brown, they add beautiful texture and interest. Vince uses a wonderfully soft suede to ensure these slides are utterly comfortable – and so chic.
Wear it with: The sliver of a wedge and posh suede creates true versatility for these sandals. They look just as good with a pair of shorts as they do with linen wide leg trousers, a sundress, or a timeless pair of capri’s. They even work with a simple sheath dress.
Fit Tip: These slides run true to size.
Alternatives: They come in several other colors through the ‘shop it’ button – including black, camel, and rusty red.

#18 New Shoes.
Why is it a Find? Warm weather usually means open shoes, but not every lady wants to constantly show off her toes. And for some offices, that’s just not appropriate. But these Michael Kors oxfords will be. The cork sole gives them a Spring/Summer feel and pairs beautifully with the menswear inspired toe stitch details for a feminine finish.
Wear it with: With trousers, capris, jeans, or even a pencil skirt, these oxfords will get you through any day when your toes aren’t “be seen” ready.
Fit Tip: These oxfords run true to size, and are seriously comfortable.
Alternatives: They come in a really cool denim/navy leather combination (a great way to add some edge to your black and colorfully printed Spring pants), as well as a truly fashionable white through the ‘shop it’ button. And if you do want something a bit open that is still work appropriate, these penny loafer slides combine tailored style with Spring practicality.

#19 Eye Catching Accents.
Why is it a Find? Chokers are so prominent this season, and this version from Gorjana is one of our favorites for it’s timelessly sophisticated  and delicate design. (Many chokers out there have more of a music festival vibe, and that’s not really what we are going after.) The slim bar and chain design is a decidedly feminine finish that can be layered or worn on its own - and is just right for the Mark Shale lady.
Wear it with: This choker is the perfect finish to all of the open necklines and shoulder baring tops of the season. It also looks great with simple crewneck necklines of sheath dresses or classic sweaters for the office. Best of all, you can wear it with other necklaces - delicate or chunky, short or long, additional necklaces can add a funky or posh look.
Fit Tip: Meant to sit just at the base of the neck, it’s not too tight and has a 3” extender so you create a perfect fit. Check out how it looks on (and layered) here.
Alternatives: It comes in silver through the 'shop it' button, too.  This dainty choker, with a glint of sparkle, is a great alternative that works with silver and gold.

#20 Eye Catching Accents.
Why is it a Find? Multi-color combinations, including rainbow stripes, can be found in many accessories this Spring. Kate spade new york’s dazzling studs ensure you won’t feel “Rainbow Bright”, adding just the right pop of cheery multicolor to any outfit.
Wear it with: These studs aren’t too big (as noted below) so you will get plenty of wear out of them. They are certainly appropriate for a night out, or for a more formal affair –to match a blue or pink dress, or add a pop of color to a simple black or white one. We also like them any day of the week, adding just a glint of sparkle that is just right for most offices, perking up that classic white button down or navy trousers.
Fit Tip: Click through the ‘shop it’ button to see these earrings on. They are a little less than ½” in diameter, so they are small without being dainty – the perfect size for this pop of sparkly multi-color, ensuring they are visible without being overpowering.
Alternatives: They come in solid colors through the ‘shop it’ button and a drop version, too.