A few weeks ago I was driving Raines to pre-school (he's 5). He was sitting in his carseat, a grumpy look on his face. "What's wrong, buddy?" I asked. He sighed. It was one of those dramatic, drawn-out sighs of the long-suffering. "I jus' don't understand what is happening in this world, Mom" he said.
Whoa. I'm not...how to even...begin with that? I waited, concerned, for him to continue.
"I mean...what the heck is going on with the Sun? Where is it? Will I always have to wear this jacket?" [pause] I'M NOT COMFORTABLE IN THIS JACKET MOM!!"
Exactly, kid. Sing it.
Ready to talk Spring, Mamas? Us too. Most of these picks (if not all) can be worn while chasing kiddos around a park, and some can be dressed up for date-night (or the office). All can be paired with pieces you already own for a fresh, easy update. These are the new Spring Basics...101.
1. The Glam Sweatshirt
Featured: James Perse Vintage French Terry Sweatshirt, $110
You can find sweatshirts glammed up with embellishments, gorgeous patterns, dip-dye detailing, shark bite hems and more...but my personal fav? A soft, thin knit with gorgeous drape and a banded waistband to hide the pooch. BAM! Done.
2. A Printed Tee
Featured: Madewell Slideshow Tee in Floral Stripe, $50
Printed tees are huge this spring: florals with a slight 80's vibe like the Madewell one above, stripes, geometric patterns, scarf prints - just to name a few. A no-brainer, right?
3. Statement Sunnies
Featured: Ann Taylor Sea Isle Sunglasses in coral (available in May)
These are crazy fun and not just for teens. Even Ann Taylor is rocking this trend. Go with a funky cateye, embellished rims...or just find a fun, colorful pair already.
4. A Soft Moto Jacket
Featured: Target Xhilaration Ruched Faux-Leather Jacket, $40
I'm told that leather jackets are (shockingly) mom-friendly: everything just wipes clean. Also? Faux-leather works just as well. And holy WOW - that gorgeous taupe jacket from Target is under $50. Run! (ps. Someone please alert me if they find a taupe moto jacket in fleece.)
5. Printed Pants
Featured: Mango Printed Jersey Trousers, $45
I'm not talking about printed denim (which is fab, of course). The pants I'm talking about are flowy. They can be wide-legged (pajama inspired), or they can be slim, tapered, or even gathered at the ankle - almost like jogging pants. They should be crazy-comfortable, lightweight and chic. Wear 'em now with your moto jacket, and All. Summer. Long. with a tank top and flat sandals.
6. Light Wash Denim
Featured: Joe's Jeans Rolled Vintage Jean, $174
Extra points for distressing, but not required. A modern silhouette for Spring/Summer is cross between boyfriend denim and skinny. (So...ummm...straight-leg? More or less?) These Joe's Jeans are spot-on...but I've also heard really good things about J.Crew's Vintage Straight.
7. A Baseball Tee
Featured: Stylemint Ruth Tee, $15
There's a sporty vibe afoot, and baseball tees fit the bill perfectly. In addition to the obvious jean pairing, try these with maxi skirts, nautical shorts, or floral anything.
8. Something Matchy
Featured: Oasis Digital Daisy Top, $65 and Shorts, $62. Available April.
While mixed prints are still a thing...there's another thing coming on strong for Spring/Summer: Matching your prints. Matching, like...wearing exactly the same print. It doesn't really matter what the silhouette is - short and tee, pants and blazer, etc. - all are yes. But here's why I love it: No. Thought. Required. Just...put it on. Like play-clothes for moms.
9. Neon
Featured: Old Navy Color-Blocked Canvas Tote, $25
Neon helps to keep a wardrobe of neutrals looking fresh - I especially like it paired with boring old khaki. These colors are shockingly easy to wear as accessories. Hunh. Who knew?
10. A Long, Slim Short
Featured: J.Crew Lightweight Bermuda, $50
Long, slim shorts were all over the runways, so...Yay for That? Anyway, I like these slightly trouser-inspired...a bit low-slung across the hips. Pair with comfy wedges and a drapey tee. Of course, you could always just hack off an old pair of jeans at the knee....
11. Bright Sneaks
Featured: Onitsuka Tiger Rio Runner, $75
I'm calling this trend 'Bright Sneaks'...but really, any sort of sneaker would work. It just so happens that the sneaker trend is so huge right now that the line between cool sneaks and actual running shoes is getting slightly blurry. It's hard for me to argue against wearing the most comfortable shoes on earth. Keep from crossing that line by sticking to bright colors, a thin bottom, and/or something that makes your heart beat fast. If your first thought isn't 'cuuuuuuute' then keep on walkin'. Be PICKY. Wear with sundresses, cropped trousers, and pretty much everything else.
That's it!! Thoughts? Let me know if there's a big, favorite trend I've missed, or if you want more info (styling tips, picks, etc.) on any of these.
xoxo
S
