Erica’s Obsessions: Spring Neutrals

Posted by Erica on Apr 5, 2012 in Shopping | 2 comments

After spring break, an almost-summery heat spell, and now tauntingly nice sixty degree days, I – along with most others on Harvard’s campus – am seriously and religiously anticipating the full onslaught of springtime. An adamant believer in the power of basics, I’m excited to pull out all my creams, blushes, tans and delicate, heathered grays for what will hopefully be days and days of sun. Here are some essentials to get you started.

 

1. Gray Pullover

The perfect color to go with anything, and the perfect weight to keep you warm on those chilly spring nights … what more could you want? The adorable zipper detail on this sweatshirt sweater from Madewell is just an extra plus.

 

2. Go-To Pants

Buy them slouchy, buy them tailored. Wear them rolled, wear them cuffed. Dress them up, dress them down. The spring trouser is possibly the most versatile item in my wardrobe for the coming months, and it should be in yours as well! This beige pair from TRF by Zara will open up style doors without breaking the bank or sacrificing quality. But, if you have wiggle room in your budget, this is definitely a piece worth investing in. And always remember: fit is everything. It’s much, much better to spend that extra bit of time and money on alterations than to wear pants that aren’t right for you.

 

3. Sheer

We all know how obsessed I am with sheer things – what else can scream sexy and ooze innocence at the same time? Not to mention versatility, a near-dealbreaker for me. For spring, trade in your black pussybow for cream and pleats. This blouse I found on ASOS adds in a soft peplum shape, great for emphasizing that beach body waist. Pair it with cropped pants and flats for a nice daytime look, or dress it up with flashy accessories and sexy velvet pumps for a nice night out.

 

4. The Sole Mate

And by “sole mate,” I mean that type of shoe you find yourself wearing every day for three weeks straight, to every event, looking fabulous at all times. That shoe. Since it’s spring, I couldn’t decide between highlighting flats or sandals … so I decided to do both.

Flats: I’m really liking throwing in some shimmer or shine, just to shake things up. Flats are also a great place to add some color (see below). These Vince Camuto ballet flats – via Nordstrom – are to die for, and come in two colorways. I personally prefer the ivory and black.

Sandals: I’m a big fan of gladiator nods. It’s a classic shape that looks good on everyone and, in the right color and with the right details, can literally be the perfect shoe. Not to mention, gladiators come in so many variations, everyone can find the perfect pair to complement their personal style. I found this pair at Steve Madden; I’m drawn to the minimalism + cleanliness. But, careful: make sure to choose a sandal style that 1) complements your foot shape, and 2) actually fits. Nothing is worse than foot bulge, awkward toe poking, chafed achilles … the list goes on.

 

5. The Pop of Color

Oh, the overdone pop of color. I don’t know who came up with the idea that if you wear neutrals you need a pop of color, but I’m all for wearing gray and brown and white and calling it a day. However, it is spring, and some people actually like to wear bright colors and such, so let’s talk color. Adding little hints of it can be a great way to accentuate your amazing neutral pieces, as long as you don’t fall victim to the trap of cliché. The whole red flats thing … cute, but spare me. There’s a time and place for red flats, and it’s not 24/7, I promise. This spring, have fun! Invest in a colorblocked bag, pick a shoe in a neon hue, go crazy with different prints. Here are my faves:

 

Comes in several color ways and similar styles. Added to Zappos free shipping = win. Get it here.

Wedges are perfect for class on a Wednesday or … not class on a Saturday. Live it up – via Solestruck.

Oh, Topshop strikes again. If floral is your thing, make sure to check out the rest of their selection for this season. I love how this print isn’t all-over.

 

-Erica Byas-Smith ’15