By Woman's Day Staff
The New Classics
The snow is melting and the temperature is rising, which means it's time to break out your warm-weather wear! But while spring definitely calls for a wardrobe uplift, that doesn't mean you have to buy all new clothes. These essential items are enough to make your wardrobe shine-without breaking the bank.
Double Breasted Trench Coast
Wear this updated classic come rain or shine, thanks to its versatile color and figure-flattering cut. The knee-grazing hem works equally well over skirts, pants and dresses. But be sure to choose a sturdy cotton or poplin fabric, says Goodman. "It will help your coat retain its shape and keep you from looking disheveled." Worthington by JCPenney trench, $99.99; JCP.com.
Sharply Tailored Shirt
On its own or layered under a jacket or sweater, this wear-itwith- anything top is a go-to day after day. "When you find a fit you like, consider buying several in different colors," suggests Goodman. Just be sure to stick to machine-washable fabrics that are easy to care for, like this fuss-free cotton. Lands' End 3⁄4 Sleeve split neck no-iron blouse, $44.50; LandsEnd.com.
Ruffled Tank
A silky pretty-in-pink top with one or two cascading flounces at the neckline will dress up a basic pair of trousers or a simple skirt. Just beware of allover tiered ruffling-it can add volume to your frame and may make you appear larger, says Goodman. High Neck Ruffle Blouse in Classic Stallion, $39.90; TheLimited.com.
Slim Cropped Pants
The key to finding capris that flatter: Choose an anklelength style to highlight the smallest part of your leg. Then, wear them with fitted T-shirts, polos and sweaters that end at or just below the waistband. Stay away from floaty tops that hit mid-hip-when paired with cropped pants, they visually widen your middle. Stretch twill Minnie pant, $79.50; JCrew.com.
Jeweled Cardigan
"The ease of this piece is that you can keep jewelry to a minimum," says Goodman. "A thin bangle and stud earrings are enough." Plus, when the bling is this subtle, the top becomes day-toevening appropriate. Go for a lightweight cropped style that hits at or just above your waist (anything longer can look sloppy). Embellished Cropped Cardigan, $228; BodenUSA.com.
Geometric Skirt
Unlike horizontal stripes, which can widen your lower half, a scattering of bold polka dots disguises trouble spots by keeping the eye moving in all directions. Most flattering are midsize patterns (graphic florals, geometric shapes) that are an inch square or slightly larger, in muted colors like this ivory and tan. 22" Trapunto Waistband Skirt, $59.90; TheLimited.com.
Peep-Toe Heels
Stylish with slacks or a skirt, these versatile pumps are just as ideal with jeans. The mediumwidth heel prevents trip-ups when wearing floor-length pants but is delicate enough to be shown off with a skirt. Dexflex by Dexter Kruise Peeptoe, $24.99; Payless.com.
Stacked Bangles
Mix materials and textures (wood with metal, carved with smooth, for example). Motely Metal Bangles, $5.80 for set; Forever21.com.
Match these bangles with one of these trendy nail colors for spring.
Metallic Belt
Considered the "new neutrals," metallic shades work with almost anything in your closet, from pants to printed dresses. The narrow width subtly cinches your middle. Thin Spring Belt, $12.50; OldNavy.com.
Embellished Flats
Exquisite extras (an oversize flower , a snappy silver buckle) make flats more fun to wear. They're a natural with cropped pants and long skirts, but also work with jeans and slim-cut trousers. Børn gold metallic flats with flower, $95; BornShoes.com. Lela Rose for Payless Carolina Flat, $34.99; Payless.com.
Chandelier Earrings
Unfairly labeled as evening-only, these drops add glitz to daytime outfits too. But beware: "Earrings with multicolored gems larger than a half-inch overpower casual clothing," says Goodman. Spring Street Chandelier Earrings, $34; ArtisanGemsBoutique.com.
Original article appeared on WomansDay.com
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