Given that the spring collections debuted nearly six months ago, it shouldn't be a huge surprise that I've had my wardrobe for the long-awaited return to warmth planned out for quite some time now. It takes time to perfect. Since fashion is famous for working way ahead, I've had plenty of time to ruminate on and save up for all the covetable items I've spotted in the lead-up to spring's return.
Taking inspiration from the runways—think satin heels à la Prada and Altuzarra—vintage mood boards heavily featuring the likes of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, Gisele Bündchen, Carla Bruni, and stylists who got their hands on the spring collections first, I've managed to build a perfect "no item missed" list for the season ahead. This way, if your spring fashion interests line up in any way with mine, you can simply and efficiently check off each item as you make it yours right along with me. I suggest starting with the first one. (Bonus: It's already on sale!)
Tortoiseshell headband:
It's kind of crazy what a simple headband can do to remedy a bad hair day. I'd know—they come around a lot. This one is very reminiscent of Bessette-Kennedy's favorite headband from C.O. Bigelow in New York, which is probably why I and many fashion people I know love it so much.
Black poplin shirt:
I keep seeing people opting for black poplin shirts instead of the white ones that were everywhere last spring and summer, so I will absolutely be adding one to my wardrobe. Pair one like this option from Gap with a belt, dark-wash jeans, and a pair of great heels for an easy, put-together look for any occasion.
Comfortable slides:
I walk a lot all year long in NYC, but after a long winter, I pretty much spend the entirety of spring and summer outside, preferring the fresh air to the hot and steamy kind found in the underground subway stations. Because of that, I need shoes that are comfortable enough to take me from point A to point B (and C, D, E, F, and G). That's where these Tory Burch slides come in. Everyone I know who bought them before they sold out raves about how comfy they are, so now that they're back in stock, I'm desperate to test them out myself.
Dark-wash jeans:
I like to look dressed up pretty much anytime I leave my apartment, but I don't always want to wear a skirt or a dress, so I'm a huge advocate of any jeans that appear more formal and elevated. For that, dark-wash denim is the only route to choose.
Gold investment belt:
I can't seem to escape this belt every time I log onto Instagram, which is usually a sign that I have to cough up the money and just buy it already. It's not like I don't know that I'd wear it five times a week.
White tank:
A good white tank partners well with any skirt or pair of jeans or trousers you style with it. Really, it's probably the most versatile item of all.
Leather bomber jacket:
I'm currently on a quest to buy a leather bomber that feels like the sold-out Phoebe Philo one but won't keep me from being able to pay my February rent. This H&M option is at the top of my list.
Top-handle clutch:
I personally witnessed this Bevza bag's debut on the runway, and now that it's available to buy, I can't seem to think of a single reason why I shouldn't go for it.
Heavy-knit cardigan:
My co-worker Anna owns this sweater and raves about how impressive it is, so with lightweight-layers season approaching, it's time for me to test one out.
White A-line skirt:
Nothing screams spring is here like a flowy, white cotton skirt that can be paired with sweaters in the spring and bikini tops in the summer.
Oversize sunglasses:
Tiny sunglasses are out, and big ones are in thanks to brands like Saint Laurent, Khaite x Oliver Peoples, and Phoebe Philo.
Net flats:
Net flats were all over the spring runways, seen at The Row, Christopher Esber, Proenza Schouler, and more.
I've been known to forget that it's not always 75° and sunny in the spring, which is why I'll be investing in one of these cashmere capes to throw on when the sun goes down and brings the temperate along with it. On another note, thanks to By Malene Birger, I've been obsessed with capes of late. They're going to be a huge thing—just wait and see.
White tee for layering:
I strongly believe that every sweater look needs a long-sleeve white tee underneath it to bring it all together. The collar and sleeves peek out a little, creating a stylized appearance and a show of intention that's necessary for any simple sweater-and-jeans outfit.
Capri pants:
Capris are going to be everywhere immediately upon the arrival of spring weather following a strong performance during September's runway shows.
Satin kitten heels:
After spotting satin heels on the runways at Prada and Altuzarra in September, I haven't quite been able to shake the need to own a pair of my own. While I wait for those exact styles to drop, I'm more than happy to bring home these alternatives from Loulou Studio.
Gray sweater:
I'm calling it—2024 is the year that gray finally gets the credit it deserves after so many years in the shadows of brighter shades and classic black. Brands like Prada, Ferragamo, Toteme, and Saint Laurent have emphasized the shade's chic qualities, all of which can be heightened even more when the color is styled in a monochrome manner.
Fitted white button-down shirt:
If spring 2023 was all about the oversize button-down shirt, spring 2024 will be all about the fitted one. For starters, this alternative is much easier to layer, but it also just looks far more put-together and sophisticated.
Gray trousers:
Instead of playing it safe with black trousers, opt for gray ones instead. While you're at it, style them alongside a lightweight gray sweater and matching shoes.
Gray footwear:
Where will I find matching gray shoes, you ask? Well, here's a pair that's about as close to perfect as footwear can get.
Strapless top:
I've been itching to bring out all of my favorite strapless tops ever since the temperatures went from chilly to frigid, so the second it warms up again, I'll be diving into my collection and, of course, adding to it.
Halter dress:
I'm not ashamed to admit that I have a problem—a halter-neck problem. Simply put, I can't stop shopping for them, usually in dress form. I can't believe this one is still available and less than $38. It looks like it could be at least 10 times that much.
Drop earrings:
A good pair of earrings can make any outfit feel special, which is why this drop style is more than worth dropping $30 on. You'll pay them off in wears in no time.
Utility jacket:
After a strong showing at Prada's spring show, everyone I know has been talking about buying a utility jacket of some sort, usually in the Barbour style. I, too, love the idea of styling one with the below nightgown to add some romance to the traditionally masculine outerwear silhouette.
Vintage-inspired slip dress:
Nothing is more romantic and dreamy on a warm day than slipping on a vintage or vintage-looking maxi slip dress and some ballet flats and frolicking around the city.
Longline vest:
A longline vest is the perfect top option if you want to look sleek and polished with little to no effort. I've been on the hunt for one that I love for months now and finally discovered this timeless beauty from Aligne. Prepare to be sick of her.
Pencil skirt:
Whenever I don't know what to wear to work, I always opt for a pencil skirt of some kind. The silhouette will never not make me think about '90s tailored runway looks, which offer up an endless supply of styling inspiration.
Fishnets:
I'm such a tights person, but obviously, when it gets warm out, you can't really wear traditional pairs without overheating. That's where fishnets come in. They supply all of the style of tights without any of the warmth.
Classic black mules:
I walk so much that my shoes often take a beating, especially classic styles like heeled mules. Because of that, I usually have to re-up on a pair every spring, and this year, these brand-new Mango pumps are my pick.
Satin jacket:
Six months on, Tory Burch's champagne-colored satin evening coat still has me in a choke hold. This gorgeous peplum-detail alt checks off all of the same boxes and can be purchased immediately. Done and done.
This article was originally published on Who What Wear.
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