Ladylike Pumps
In case you haven’t heard, the classic single sole pump is all the rage for spring and there’s no better way to update your 2013 look than by adding a pair to your wardrobe repertoire. Pair them now with a patterned or dark denim jean and a cashmere sweater, and come spring they’ll hit just the right footnote with white jeans and a bright colored tee.
To buy: H&M, $25
Indian Market Bag
Let your more polished leather tote take a breather so you can get a handle on this fun, colorful graphic tote from the Mumbai-based label, Jolie. While it’s perfect for the green market, playground and, come summer, the beach or pool this bold bag is chic (and light!) enough to carry for all your daily doings. It will look at home with jeans and a tee as well as with a casual LBD.
To buy: Joli, proudly made in India Bag, $50
Embellished Sweatshirt
This decade has seen the rise of the sweatshirt as a major fashion player, topping everything from ladylike skirts to leather leggings and pumps for the ultimate in casual chic. This piece will upgrade your jeans as well as sit pretty with a feminine pencil skirt.
To buy: Mango Sweatshirt, $50
Purple Chinos
Without a doubt, khakis have earned their status as a dependable basic, but there’s no time like the present to kick up the style factor of chinos by choosing one in a bold hue. A tissue-thin T-shirt in gray or navy is the perfect topper, while a cropped tweed jacket adds a little ladylike elegance.
To buy: H&M Pants, $30
T-Shirt Dress
Revamp your look without sacrificing comfort or ease, by subbing in a cozy chic T-shirt dress for your go-to jeans and tees. Get it winter-ready by layering it over a long-sleeve shirt and tights, and adding a sleek leather jacket and boots. When temps are on the rise, wear it with a pair of ballet flats, sneakers or sandals, along with a linen or lightweight cashmere scarf and a denim jacket.
To buy: T By Alexander Wang, $94
Printed Oxfords
Push your sneakers to the side, and let these charming polka dot pattern oxfords be your go-to shoe for 2013. The navy classic with white dot print is just quirky enough to add a little fun to all your basics. Be it jeans and blazers or khakis and a button-up shirt, these menswear-inspired lace-ups will liven up any look.
To buy: Gap, $50
Silk Popover
It’s time to take the tees out of constant rotation and slip into something just as easy but more polished: Madewell’s silk-printed popover blouse. Make it a repeat performer with jeans, and add your favorite black blazer and pointy toe pumps when you want a more polished vibe. Or, let it top a black pencil skirt for a casual-chic look.
To buy: Madewell, $108
Biker Trench Coat
When a classic trench meets the cool biker-style jacket, the result is the most covet-worthy coat of the year. This hip-length number will be your go-to coverall on days when the weather calls for a lighter coat, but on colder days you can layer a sweater underneath.
To buy: Mango, $130
Geometric Print Jeans
Jeans are the linchpin of any modern-day wardrobe, but it’s time to give your beloved blues a break and spice up your staples with a printed pair. J.Crew has updated its classic toothpick jeans with an on-trend black-and-white geometric print. They’ll be the centerpiece for day-and-night looks with your favorite tees, blazers, button-ups, silk shirts, flats and heels.
To buy: J.Crew, $135