Here in the Midwest, dare I say that spring and summer fashion get the short end of the stick. We’re so preoccupied with fall and then bundling up in winter that once warm weather finally shows its face again, we’ve spent our clothing funds on too many parkas and snowboots.
It makes sense considering that here, warm weather lasts for a lot shorter of a period than winter does (or does it just feel 10 times as long? Who’s to say). Because of this, investing in timeless, classic warm-weather pieces is our way to a seamless spring and summer wardrobe. When we finally transition our closets from scarves and sweaters to sandals and shorts, we want them to be things we want to throw on immediately, year after year after year.
Whether you’re plagued with the cold seasons or are in a warm climate that Chicagoans can hardly comprehend doesn’t matter—these pieces will carry you through any warm time of year that you have.
1. A Rattan Bag
Rattan and straw bags were seen on the arm of what felt like every woman in the continental United States last summer, but the trend is less of a “trend” and more of a warm-weather wardrobe staple. It’s worth investing in your favorite one once, rather than buying a new one every year when your previous one falls apart.
2. A Perfect White Dress
A white dress is mandatory for every spring and summer, and this year’s certainly didn’t disappoint. Any of these options are perfect to take you to all of your weekend events from April until September—this spring and in the ones to come.
3. White Sneakers
Sure, the recent sneaker craze has made us love ours a little bit more (don’t look in my closet at how many variations of white sneakers I have), but they’re the perfect spring and summer shoe option for days you don’t want to wear sandals. There isn’t an outfit that won’t look good paired with these.
4. Denim Shorts
You can’t live in a climate that’s 60 degrees or over (for us Chicagoans, at least) without owning a flattering, staple pair of jean shorts. And since their style doesn’t change very often—unlike jeans—you don’t buy new pairs very often to stay up-to-date on them. Find the ones that fit your body best and rock them from year to year.
5. Statement Sandals
When you’re going out on a warm Saturday or heading on a spring trip, it’s nice to have a sandal option that aren’t your usual brown leather bi-strap ones that you wear every day. When you need a shoe to dress up your outfit, these babies will deliver:
6. White Denim
Similar to the aforementioned denim shorts, you don’t need a million different pairs of white jeans—just one really good pair. While we love winter white, white jeans undoubtedly get the most wear in the spring and summer, so now is the perfect time to find your favorites.
7. Espadrilles
Another spring and summer staple shoe, espadrilles are versatile and easy to wear. From wedge options to sandals to classic closed-toe versions, you can pair them with dresses, jeans, and anything in between.
