Anyone else feel like a new season is a great time to do a little life refresh? I especially like to focus on my wardrobe during this transition, go figure. That said, I’m currently in the mood to do a closet clean out in preparation for spring, and I’m going to take you through my process.
I start out by going category by category and put aside all the pieces I am questioning. Think tops, sweaters, denim, pants, shoes, dresses…etc. Basically, I go through anything that’s specific to the upcoming season. Next, I like to store all the pieces that I think will come back around trend-wise whether for myself or for my daughter—these are usually more classic pieces that are dated at the moment. Then, I think on whether some of the other pieces I have out need to simply be swapped out with a more modern take. Once I make the call, I separate them into bags to donate or sell and get straight to shopping for my updated picks.
Ahead, you’ll get a glimpse at five of the things I will give the boot to first this year, plus what I will swap them out for instead.
Getting the Boot: High-Heeled Sandals
Swapping For: Low-Heeled Sandals
I am officially done suffering in higher heels. It's all about comfortable lower heeled sandals moving forward. Basically, I plan on keeping my heels at three inches or under. Best part is, you don't have to sacrifice style with a lower heel height. Just look at how Abisola Omole's ensemble turns into more of a statement with her lower white ruched sandals.
Shop:
This ruched pair is great for recreating Abisola's look above. Wear with everything from trousers to dresses to jeans.
There are two trends happening here: knotted details and a block heel.
A strappy barely-there sandal in a neutral color makes it super easy to elevate any look.
The architectural heel on these mules is what caught my attention.
I am obsessed with this fashion-forward style. It feels very '90s minimalist.
Getting the Boot: Ruffled Sweaters
Swapping For: Half-Zip Pullover Sweaters
Later, ruffled sweaters. I am moving on to sleeker pastures thanks to this season's trending half-zip pullover sweaters. Layer over a white top and jeans like Anouk Yve here or throw one over a midi dress—the layering options are endless. Shop my top picks right now below.
Shop:
This oatmeal colored pick is a nod to Anouk's stylish look.
I wouldn't have believed this gray option was under $100.
I am all about striped sweaters for spring, so I was excited to find on in a half-zip design.
I swear by camel pieces since they elevate and get lots of compliments.
I know this is missing the zipper, but this half-button style is right up my alley especially in this trendy green.
Getting the Boot: Fitted Button-Down Shirts
Swapping For: Oversize Button-Down Shirts
There is nothing more classic than a button-down shirt. Lately, the more oversize the fit, the better. Not only does this looser fit look more modern it gives it more versatility as well. Wear one with black pants and dad sandals inspired by Thérèse Jacinto, as a coverup at the beach, and much, much more.
Shop:
At under $50, the cost-per-wear of this shirt is insanely low.
Classic blue button-downs are a staple in my closet and this is a great oversize option.
A subtle pinstripe is great for switching up the usual solid colors.
I love a black button-down worn slightly unbuttoned with lighter-wash denim. Finish with a strappy sandals and it becomes a great going-out look.
Getting the Boot: Short Denim Cutoffs
Swapping For: Long Denim Cutoff Shorts
Sylvie Mus is my minimalist style muse and ever since seeing her post this look on Instagram, I have been sold on longer denim shorts for spring and summer. So, for now anyway, I say goodbye to shorter denim cutoffs.
Shop:
This pair has a relaxed fit and cool frayed hem.
I love the slightly darker vintage wash of this shorts style.
The slimmer-fitting leg give these more a Bermuda shorts vibe.
$25 and in a faded black? Yes, please.
This slim white pair is super chic and can easily be dressed up or down.
Getting the Boot: Basic Tank Tops
Swapping For: Racerback Tank Tops
For now, I am setting aside basic tank tops and reaching for cool racerback options instead. The styling possibilities are endless for both casual and elevated ensembles—I mean how chic does Tylynn Nguyen make this white racerback tank top look?
Shop:
Wear this chic ribbed tank alone or with the matching cardigan.
This pick has a sweater-like feel. As for the length, one reviewer mentioned, "If you want to wear with high-waisted pants you can tuck in or it’s long enough to wear untucked."
What can I say? I love a butter yellow for spring and summer.
The seamless edges give this style a sleek look.
This style has a looser, more casual feel out of the bunch that's great for lounging.
Up next: I’m Ready to Ditch Some of My Sandals—I Think I’m Done With These 5 Styles.
-
We're Fashion Editors—Everything We Saw, Wore, Did, and Ate During NYFWLet's dive in.
-
Jenna Lyons's World: Her Go-To Red Lipstick, Her Latest Eyewear Collab, and the J.Crew Pieces She Still Wears TodayA true fashion icon.
-
Not Into Trends? Renée Zellweger's Winter Outfit Combo Is 100% ClassicJust as you are.
-
Emma Chamberlain's World: Her Warby Parker Collab, Two-Phone Rule, and Spiciest Fashion Takes"I just want to bring the most joy to people."
-
Emma Chamberlain's Closet Clean-Out Is Inspiring My Minimalist Era—5 Finds I'd StealThe queen has spoken.
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in EuropeClassic looks that are always in style.
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This WinterYou're welcome.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the DistanceI'm going to use it this weekend.
