Back to Basics: 5 Spring Essentials For Your Wardrobe

I have a confession to make: I am an unabashed lover of basics and neutrals. When I go shopping with friends, if someone sees any sort of variation of a white blouse, they hold it up exclaiming, “This is so you!” Some might call it boring, but I prefer classic. Go ahead, roll your eyes.

Regardless of if you gravitate more in the avant garde direction with your clothing choices, everyone should have certain basic and classic pieces in their closet. These items serve as blank canvases to begin your outfit; add simple jewelry for a clean look or layer on the accessories – scarves, arm candy, belts, etc. – to make it more exciting.

These are my top five staples for spring. You’ll have these styles . Trust me.

1) A Striped Dress. Nothing says spring like a good nautical print and you can wear a dress like this across seasons – throw on wedges and a bright statement piece for spring and then add a linen blazer or light sweater when it starts to get cool. It will be your go to lunch outfit, either way.

Steal: Dorothy Perkins Navy & White Striped Boxpleat Dress, $29

Splurge: Marc Jacobs Jacquelyn Stripe Dress, $258

2) A Shirtdress. You will live in a piece like this. It’s a great choice for traveling because it’s comfy and meant to look a little lived in, so wrinkles aren’t an issue! Can’t you just feel the ocean waves rushing over your feet as you stand on the beach wearing this dress and a wide brimmed straw hat? No? Just me?

Steal: Old Navy Oxford Shirtdress, $34.94

Splurge: Halston Heritage Shirt Dress, $375

3) A Sleeveless White Blouse. Throw it on with your favorite pair of jeans and cute flats to run errands, or tuck it into a pretty skirt for a fun dinner. The possibilities are endless with a top like this!

Steal: Gap Sleeveless Tunic, $45

Splurge: Equipment Top, $188

4) Tan Flats. Add these babies to any of the above mentioned outfits to finish off your spring look. I love the D’Orsay style as a chic update to the ballet flat.

Steal: Forever 21 Refined D’Orsay Flats, $22.80

Splurge: Dolce Vita Alpha, $139

5) A Neutral Carry-All. For some reason, in the spring and summer I find myself running around much more than during the colder months. Whether you’re flitting from work to happy-hour drinks to soak up the last rays of sun during the week, or going from your friend’s pool to an early dinner during the weekend, you need something to carry your essential spring go-tos, i.e. lip gloss, sunglasses and light layers for those chilly evenings.

Steal: Danielle Nicole Alexa Tote, $98

Splurge: Kate Spade New York Vita Limoni Large Luisa, $348

Happy Spring folks!

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