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An Easy Spring Wardrobe Refresh, Whether Your Budget is $150 or $1,000
Make your existing wardrobe feel fresh with a few strategic additions.
Every spring, I can count on two things: allergies and the sudden feeling that I hate everything in my closet.
The thing is, I don’t actually hate my clothes—at all. In fact, I think I’ve amassed a pretty great collection of pieces over the years. But there’s something about this hopeful new season that makes me crave new colors, new shapes, a new identity…or at least just a new top.
I don’t have the desire (or the budget) to do a complete wardrobe overhaul every spring, but I’ve found that a few strategic additions go a long way toward helping me see my existing pieces in a new light. So in case you’re experiencing your own case of sartorial spring fever, I’ve pulled together a guide to what you should buy next–assuming you’ve already checked out your local consignment shops and thrift stores. And thanks to the excellent sale we’re having, there are recommendations for revamping your wardrobe on any budget, depending on how much you want to spend on clothes, shoes, and accessories.
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How to Do an Easy Spring Wardrobe Refresh on Any Budget
If your budget is $150…
Refresh your wardrobe with versatile pieces in light, spring-ready neutrals that are easy to mix and match. The stretchy Shiloh pants in pearl (currently on sale for $70) would be a great investment, because they can make your go-to tops feel fresh again. Speaking of tops, have you tried the Mori henley? If not, now’s your chance—because it’s currently on sale for just $40. You’ll reach for this soft, tuckable pima top on days when you want the comfort of a T-shirt, but with a bit more visual interest. Of course, nothing says “it’s spring!” like getting a new sundress. Try the easy, breezy Renee dress, which works equally well as a beach cover-up and a casual party dress—just add heels and some affordable accessories.
If your budget is $300…
Now’s your chance to snag that sleek slip dress you’ve been eyeing—because the Elsa dress in forest is currently on sale (but selling out fast!). Stretchy and substantial enough to offer full coverage, this is one of those all-season dresses that you’ll find yourself wearing every month of the year. In the springtime, it looks great with slides and a lightweight jacket. In the winter, sub your slides for tights and boots and add a cashmere sweater. Always remember to pay attention to versatility: When you shop seasonal styles that can also be worn year-round, a tight budget can go much further—especially when you’re not paying full price. If you’re planning to travel this summer, express your personal style with the Delaney joggers, made from our packable OrigamiTech fabric. They’re breathable, wrinkle-resistant, machine-washable, and chic enough that you won’t have to change after you get off the plane (plus, the elastic waistband is key for long flights).
If your budget is $500…
You’re about to be the best-dressed person at every wedding/birthday party/baby shower on your calendar this summer, because the Jillian dress is on sale in multiple colors. Featuring elegant asymmetrical draping and machine-washable, odor-resistant fabric, it’s one of our customers’ favorite dresses—ever. And while we’re on the topic of favorites, now would be the perfect time to try our favorite ready-in-seconds spring outfit: a lightweight sweater + Better Than Denim jeans—ideal for days when you need to look polished but also want to be comfortable enough for, say, a rowdy play session with your three toddlers. A tall order, but not a problem for this outfit. If you don’t have endless time to shop for or style clothes, a simple outfit formula like this one is a game-changer.
If your budget is $800…
Go for a fun but easy-to-pair layer, like the Allison anorak in black-and-white gingham, that will add some interest to your everyday outfits. And for those everyday outfits, try subbing your usual pieces for elevated knit styles, like the square-necked Joya top in silk jersey and the sleek Felda dress in 3D-knit cotton. (Nothing says “quiet luxury” like a simple but beautifully constructed knit.) Finally, if you want to upgrade your wardrobe on a budget, a bold new accessory can go a long way toward giving your existing pieces new life. Try the on-sale Beebe belt to add structure and texture to any outfit.
If your budget is $1,000…
Invest in the Demi jumpsuit in gingham linen and make it part of your signature look this year. You can pair it with heels and jewelry for special occasions; with sneakers or sandals for casual weekend days; or with a jacket to create a pseudo-suit. For another one-and-done outfit, grab the Ruth dress, a customer-favorite A-line made from our lightweight scuba knit. If you like the Ruth’s swingy skirt, you’ll probably love the Astor skirt, which is like a pencil skirt on top and an A-line on bottom—the best of both worlds. On top, swap your winter sweaters for the Kara top in 365Knit, which is equally comfortable, but better for warm weather. And finally, add a splash of color with the washable silk charmeuse Tatum top in vintage rose, which will help you manifest spring blooms in your neighborhood.