Nine Spring Wardrobe Must-Haves
Spring is associated with new beginnings, pastels, and all things fresh and feminine. There are nine clothing items and three accessories a professional careerist fashionista should update every spring.
Now you don’t necessarily have to buy all new, but definitely go through your closet to check for these items and freshen them up if necessary.
My inspiration for the following collection comes from a fashion show I had the pleasure of attending in the business district of Toronto, Canada hosted by Hangar9 . The high-end boutique clothing store is a family business and was founded by Jo-Ann Fisher with her two daughters, over 30 years ago.
Their philosophy is very simple: have nine classic items in your closet to create 36 professional and feminine outfits. “Hang, nine, you see,“ explained a chic looking event attendee. Hence the name of the store, “Hang-ar 9,” very cool.
But of course – knowing me – I simply cannot narrow it down to just nine items with so many beautiful things featured. I had to modify the Hang-ar 9 philosophy a smidge, to add the three extra accessories. The store carries over 80 designer lines, with a number of Canadian favourites.
Without further ado, here they are:
Classic Blazer – will sharpen your look, keep you up to date with currents trend and dress up a simple summer dress or a ked. Quebequa designer Marie Saint Pierre is a genius when it comes to designing blazers. They are astonishing. The silluettes are simple, sharp, clean-cut with a hint of feninity. She incorporates various lengths and cuts to create an unforgettable look. The materials used are natural and chic. My favourite in the category is a gorgeous asymmetrical tweet, grey blazer with a raised tailored collar.
Pencil Skirt – is a modern classic for a reason. This elegant narrow-fitting item has stayed in style since French designer Christian Dior first introduced it in his Fall collection in 1954. When it comes to purchasing one there are many options. Whether you are looking for a bargain or don’t mind the high-end version, watch out for that pesky polyester lining. Surprisingly, even higher priced pencil skirts may have a wool skirt lined with the stuff. Not only does the wool lose its ability to breathe, but you will have the unpleasant fabric practically wrapped around your body. Definitely a no-no from me. If Dior is not an option for you, I recommend scouring Winners for the discounted designer items or opting for the cotton version – perfect for the warmer season – at American Apparel.
Pair of Trousers – full or three quarter length is a must for any new season. A shorter cut or a pastel colour will add to the crisp, spring appearance of your look. Have I mentioned Brooks Brothers yet? It is definitely one of my all-time favourite designers for professional-wear. Only quality fabric is generally used to make everything from a summer dress to a sharp looking blazer. The new arrivals are light – many made from linens, cottons, silks – with soft colours as well as contrasting colourful patterns for the summer palette.
My favourites are usually the two-piece blazer and trouser combinations made with luxurious linen, silk, cashmere, and wool blends, woven in Italy. The strict blazers and trouser combos are sharp enough for the office and have the ability to breathe in the hottest of climates. The designer is one of the very few that uses a silk-type material called bemberg or curpo for the lining of its blazers and trousers. I have a big pet peeve when it comes to using polyester as lining. It completely defeats the purpose of having a high quality outer material, doesn't let the body breathe, and facilitates sweat stains on dress shirts on a hot day.
Office Dress – that is well tailored, simple or haute couture is the epitome of style in my opinion. It is reminiscent of the Royal Family, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and her impeccable style. There are a number of important elements to consider when it comes to picking out an office dress. Make sure it is of an appropriate length, opt for just over the knee or three quarter length. Shorter dresses – especially with a well-covered neckline – are sometimes acceptable, but be certain that you can pull it off. Straight sharp lines and well-tailored thick or lined fabric is what often makes the dress look formal. Canadian designer Joeffer Caoc has some gorgeous silhouettes to choose from. I am especially in love the two-tone dresses where neutrals are incorporated with pastels.
Spring Floral Dress – a beautiful, flowey summer dress is a must for every spring season. It is always in style and uber feminine. Whether you choose a simple formal dress made from virgin wool or high quality cotton for the office like Obakki, Canada offers, or pick simple, patterned summer dress paired with a blazer, you would not be amiss.
Silk Blouse – is a stylish addition in any season, but especially in the spring. Matte pastels signify new beginnings and are luxurious closet ornaments, and to think the blouse was originally introduced by workmen, peasants, and artists. Many designers offer their take on the gorgeous and stylish silk blouses, it’s important to choose respectable brands however. The quality of the silk is paramount. I’ve had an experience buying a silk blouse from a brand, I shall not name here, only to have it come apart at the seam after one wash. Ralph Lauren on the other hand designs gorgeous, well-made blouses, using beautiful silk material.
Cotton Top – is a wonderful item for the spring season, due to cotton's versatile nature. It is simple, elegant, and breathe of fresh air with every new deign twist. Iris von Arnim has some wonderful choices for the spring and Hangar9 is the only store to carry the designer in Canada. Dorothee Schumacher is another talented designer the store carries. The pieces grab your attention with a unique twist on the femme fatale in the spring.
Spring Trench – ah the timeless classic. It is perfect for windy or rainy days as well as sunny yet cool afternoons. The British designed Burberry trench coat is definitely the epitome of a haute couture stylish trench, but many other quality designers carry these beauties and offer so much variety. Iris von Narnim has some striking coats as alternatives to the classic trench as well as the timeless piece.
Leather jacket – whether it is a studded roughrider biker leather or a prim and proper fitted tan suede jacket, it doesn’t fail to impress. I love, love, love leather jackets and would wear them year-round if the weather allowed. They can complete or complement almost any look. Various types of leather can work seamlessly with various looks to match an elegant summer dress or a slick pair of jeans and tractor boots. New York based designer Rag & Bone has a great selection of leather jackets.
Comfortable sandals – a new pair is a must for the spring season. If you work in the sort of environment where you can get away with an everyday open-toe sandal I highly recommend Vince. Summer/Spring shoes I have from this designer are the most comfortable I have worn yet. They have half sizes and once you find your size it will fit like a glove. The leather used to craft the shoes is some of the softest I have had the chance to try. A closed–toe alternative is a ballet slipper.
Keds – are always a comfortable alternative to more formal wear. They also look so cute with dressy attire to create that business casual look. Helmut Lang offers a sexy leather version of the ked that looks very high-end and chic. It is made with leather and a sexy, thick, ivory rubber sole. The classic ked however, is still one of my favourite all time picks for spring.
Pastel coloured purse – just screams SPRING and is a beautiful addition to your seasonal wardrobe. You can easily match it with a pair of comfortable sandals. A conservative work suit can be dressed up with a pastel beige, pink, or yellow for a crisp touch.
Accessories in general can freshen up your spring outfit. Be sure to also take a look at Rebekah Price Designs, Dean Davidson, Liel and Lentz, and Laurie Fleming Jewellery.
By:
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