Shopping in the spring can be tricky! It’s hard to find great pieces that keep you warm now AND look hot all summer long, so we asked Colin McDonald, celebrity fashion stylist, to give us some tips. Bag the must-have transitional styles below and stretch your fashion bucks by wearing them through September!
Silk Tank Top –Scoop one off the racks now, cover your shoulders with a fitted jacket, and you’re office ready! You can also throw one on with jeggings for a cute, daytime look. In the summer, pair this essential with shorts or a skirt. Peep toe heels and flashy jewelry make it perfect for nighttime, too. Color block with fun jewelry in a contrasting color, or choose lucite jewelry for a softer look.
Marc by Marc Jacobs Arielle Bloom Top - $198
Patricia Brown Coral Inspired Necklace - $188
Nautical Sweater – A great sweater in a fun striped pattern can be totally versatile. Look for one in cotton or linen to keep you cool for multiple seasons. For a chic spring outfit, wear it buttoned underneath a blazer. In the summer, throw it on over a tank top with a skirt or pair of shorts. McDonald suggests an elongated v-neck to show off your collarbone.
Forever 21 Wide Stripe Cardigan - $19.80
Bold Skirt – McDonald recommends bright colors like coral, orange and red because they’re totally “in” this year. These warm colors look great with neutrals no matter the weather, so tuck in a nude, ivory, or white blouse to keep the focus on your skirt this spring. Once it’s summertime, switch to sleeveless. You could even pick up the color of the skirt with a bold patterned tank. Going out on the town? I love wearing wedges with my skirt!
Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Pleated Flared Skirt - $395
Floral Print Dress – A flirty dress is the perfect addition to your spring and summer wardrobe. Putting a blazer or denim jacket over the dress will warm you up, and once it’s hot outside, metallic sandals or wedges look fun! Just be careful with the accessories – the floral dress should be the centerpiece of your outfit.
Aqua Sleeveless Floral Printed Dress with Pockets - $88
Light Wash Boyfriend Jeans – Wear them with a cardigan, blazer, v-neck sweater, and a scarf in the spring, or cuff them up with cute tanks and tees this summer! I love pairing mine with a striped v-neck and ballet flats. For a dressier look, heels look great too! Try either strappy or open-toed shoes. According to McDonald, the lighter the jeans, the more casual they are, so make sure to put on a darker pair if you’re going formal.
Gap Cuffed Boyfriend Jeans - $69.50
White Jeans – White jeans are essential for your summer look and can be acceptably worn year round (finally!) In the spring, wear white jeans with a blazer, cardigan, or light jacket and cute tee or tank underneath. To stay away from looking too “summery,” make sure to wear closed-toe shoes and layer on top – a light scarf is always fun! Then, throw on a pair with flat sandals and a linen tunic or button-down blouse for a summertime outfit that’s comfortable and relaxed. A fitted pair can be sleek and sexy, especially with a bright top and stilettos at night.
Citizens of Humanity Thompson Crop - $154
Robbi & Nikki Ruffle Crepe Top with White Jeans - $165
Ballet Flats – You can wear flats with skinny pants or jeans all spring, but don’t put them away just yet! Ballet flats aren’t just for cold weather! Wear them with a high wasted skirt this summer for a sweet, casual look.
Steve Madden I-Dreemy - $9o
Colin T. McDonald is a stylist who has worked with some of the most influential names in the industry today, including Christian Dior, Ralph Lauren, and Michael Kors. Aside from styling, he also commentates and is a fashion expert for a variety of media outlets. In addition to styling and commentating, he also finds time to host numerous events to introduce up-and-coming designers and brands to the industry, making him the "go-to-guy" for all your style needs.
