10 Classic Pieces to Buy (and wear forever) for Spring

classics

We talk a lot about trends over here, but I thought today we’d discuss the classics.  Pieces that you buy now, and wear until they fall apart.  You might notice there isn’t a single handbag here.  I chose not to include bags this go around, simply because I don’t see a handbag as something seasonal…  buy the bag you love and wear it year round.

1.  A classic trenchcoat.  (Get one in a shorter length to avoid looking like a detective.)  I bought my trenchcoat three years ago with a tax refund.  It is Burberry, and at the time, I felt incredibly frivolous purchasing it.  But you know what?  I wear it constantly… April thru October.  Personally I’d rather spend a lot on one coat that I’ll wear for ten, fifteen years than spend a little bit on a new coat every Spring.  It’s  a classic for a reason.  It can be hard to find a great trench on a budget, but I happen to really love this one by Ivanka Trump (so strange)

2.  A great pair of white jeans.  No zippers, no embellishment, just a great, basic pair.  Mine (by Paige) are something I wear at least once a week.    I personally like a skinny leg, but it’s really up to you.  If you like a straighter cut, try these.  And these are a great budget-friendly option.

3.  A well-made striped t-shirt.  I really love these shrunken St. James tees from J.Crew… Chance also makes some fabulous striped tees… this and this being amongst my favorites!

4.  A navy blazer.  Mine came from J.Crew (three or four years ago) and I still wear it all the time.  This is great because you can layer it over absolutely everything when you want to feel a little bit more polished.  For a more rumpled look, roll up the sleeves.

5.  Chic, flat sandals.  Mine came from the Poet Sandal Maker in Greece (the style is The Jackie O – I bought them on vacation for myself + my sisters), but then I spotted this pair by Joie (via Taylor) and they’re a dead ringer for my beloved Greek pair.  I got mine four years ago and will wear until the leather detaches from the sandal… they are truly perfect.

6.  A chunky chain link necklace.  I wear this silver one all the time.  It layers well, or makes a statement on its own.  There are days where I just don’t feel like putting on jewelry, and when that happens I throw this one on.  If you are more into gold, try this, this, or this budget-friendly version.  I also love this sparkly one  and this rose gold rendition.

7.  A white blouse with a great drape.  Equipment makes the best silk button downs… this being amongst my favorite.  I also love Madewell’s ex-boyfriend shirts, or this blouse (from TopShop)  for a more feminine look.

8.  A perfectly deconstructed tee.  You know, the one you reach for over and over again because it’s sooo soft and pairs with everything.  I love Madewell’s linen v-necks for this reason.  They are just rumpled enough, super cozy, but don’t lose their shape.

9.  A t-shirt dress.  Under the trench, under the blazer… belted and layered over your stripes… there are an endless amount of ways to wear this piece.  Or try the $15.00 version.

10.  Boyfriend denim.  This trend is not going to go away.  If it does, it will likely come back.  This pair, from Current/Elliott is pretty perfect.  The wash is just right, and in my opinion, Current/Elliot jeans are some of the best-fitting jeans out there.  For a more wallet-friendly version, I love this distressed pair.

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  1. Totally agree. When my weight stops fluctuating like crazy, I want a gorgeous investment piece trench. And goodness yes, I love me a striped shirt. xo

    4.9.13 Reply
  2. Stripes go with everything. Great round up!

    glitterandgapske.blogspot.com

    4.9.13 Reply
  3. Amazing pieces, and I really love your detailed explanations for each of them. And how have I not heard of these Greek sandals?! My family is there 3-4 times a year, I need them to bring me back a pair!
    xo
    Lia
    Smart n Snazzy

    4.9.13 Reply
    • Grace Atwood:

      oh my gosh, you do! they are my favorite sandals in the world… so special

      4.9.13 Reply
  4. Such a great round up of classic items! A trench is definitely a must. I couldn’t get through spring without mine!

    4.9.13 Reply
  5. LOVE this list! i am traveling to greece next month and i cant wait to get my hands on some chic leather sandals. xo

    4.9.13 Reply
    • Grace Atwood:

      Oh my gosh you have to go to the Poet Sandalmaker… he is incredible! He’ll fit the leather to your feet right there in the store.

      4.9.13 Reply
  6. Those tan sandals are so cute!

    4.9.13 Reply
  7. I totally agree about the navy blazer. I have the same one from J.Crew. Bought it forever ago and still wear it at least once a week.

    I’m going to have to agree with everyone else on the leather sandals.. really cute!

    4.9.13 Reply
  8. T shirt dresses are the best!

    4.9.13 Reply
  9. YES to those striped tees– I need to stock up on some of them! And I am still constantly on the hunt for a great navy blazer!

    4.9.13 Reply
  10. This is so true- I definitely have MOST of these items, but I’m still looking for the perfect trench!

    4.9.13 Reply
  11. I agree with everything except the white jeans! They’re just so impractical

    xo Ashley
    thetiniestfirecracker.com

    4.9.13 Reply
  12. I agree that these are some essential spring wardrobe needs!

    4.9.13 Reply
  13. Love those jeans, just need to find a spare £200!

    4.9.13 Reply
  14. Agreed! I already have most of these but you can always use more than one basic right?

    xo
    Kara
    http://www.thebostonista.com

    4.9.13 Reply
  15. I love your simple spring essential picks! I just did a post on Joie sandals – love them!

    xoxo

    4.9.13 Reply
  16. I love those tees you picked, and I could really use a classic trench.

    Kristina does the Internets

    4.9.13 Reply
  17. I’m only missing the perfect boyfriend jeans cant seem to find on that fits right. The trench is not necessary as I live in South Florida.

    xo
    http://pinksole.com

    4.9.13 Reply
  18. This is such a useful guide, especially since I’m looking to update my wardrobe for spring right now! Also, I also love that Ivanka Trump trench you mentioned- the eyelet trim is so cute!

    4.9.13 Reply
  19. I soo totally agree! Amazing pieces and thank you for sharing.

    Mad For Fashion…For Less: Downy Unstoppable Scent Booster Video Shoot + Giveaway!
    http://www.madforfashionforless.com

    4.9.13 Reply
  20. love these tips- perfect staples. i definitely need to invest in a new trench.

    4.10.13 Reply
  21. Love these shades – grays, peaches and whites are my favorite this time of year!

    4.10.13 Reply
  22. Love the sandals and coral is one of my favorite colors!

    4.10.13 Reply
  23. I love this post — such a great pieces and advice!

    4.10.13 Reply
  24. T-shirts and springtime are just the best combo. I love all of these, especially that t-shirt dress! Great list.

    4.10.13 Reply
  25. i want every. last. item.

    4.11.13 Reply
  26. Yes, yes, and yes. Everything here holds true. All of these pieces are a must, must, must-have! They carry you right through the year, and are always handy to have. I’m waiting to get my own Burberry Trench this year and I love that you included the tee-shirt dress, because it is most def one of my personal favorites

    Kathleen of whenjmetk.com

    4.12.13 Reply
  27. OMG, love this orange striped tee! Need it for this spring/summer season!
    Thanks for sharing these amazing pieces!
    XO
    preppyandfunny.wordpress.com

    4.17.13 Reply