There are spring and summer trends that are always acceptable, such as florals and vibrant colors, but if you’re in-the-know on fashion, you might be saying to yourself, “Florals? For spring? Groundbreaking.” (The girls that get it, get it.) To be original this season means dipping into unexpected wardrobe choices, such as kitten heels, hot pants, chunky sandals, and maybe even capris. I wanted to go a layer deeper, so I asked Marissa Galante Frank, Bloomingdale’s fashion director, for her expert insight on what’s really worth wearing this spring and summer.
Shop 6 Stylist-Approved Spring Pieces
White Sneakers
Bloomingdale’s
Just because something is a classic doesn’t mean it’s boring. “The white sneaker is a closet staple,” said Galante Frank. “I love a white sneaker with retro energy,” she continued. Tons of celebrities have proven her point, with Emily Blunt, Gisele Bündchen, and Katie Holmes reaching for the foolproof footwear.
The white sneakers’ popularity is certainly due to its easy styling abilities. Pair this unfussy Veja option with olive trousers and a linen top for a refined ensemble or consider matching these Autry Medalist Low-Top Sneakers with straight-leg jeans and a simple T-shirt. There’s no wrong way to wear white trainers, making them an uncomplicated addition to any wardrobe.
Light-Wash Denim
Bloomingdale’s
Jeans are the foundation of any notable casual look, but during spring and summer, “a lighter-wash denim is always preferred,” said Galante Frank. The worn-in aesthetic provides an effortless touch to your outfit, coordinating exceptionally well with colors like soft yellow, pale pink, and white.
Cindy Crawford caught my attention upon donning this exact trend in March, while Pamela Anderson did the same. Each opted for a roomier version, which Galante Frank calls “comfortable” for the warmer weather. It also balances the proportions of fitted tank and tube tops, playing on the tiny-shirt-big-pants phenomena.
Mesh Flats
Bloomingdale’s
What do Jennifer Lawrence, Chrissy Teigen, and Jennifer Lopez all have in common? They rely on the mesh flats for breathability and comfort—and so does Galante Frank. “As a New Yorker, flats have always been a key component of my shoe wardrobe,” she said. “This season, the mesh ballet [flat] is one of my favorite new updates,” she added, crediting the “breathable” and “airy freeness” the style offers.
Beyond being a celebrity- and style expert-loved choice, mesh ballet flats play into spring and summer’s runway looks, too, becoming the “feminine detail of choice,” according to Galante Frank. So, wear your square-toe Vagabond shoes or bridal-perfect Dolce Vita flats feeling fully confident.
Trench Coats
Bloomingdale’s
There may be no stronger trend than trench coats—and Galante Frank agrees. “It is my go-to outerwear piece for transitional weather and adds a hint of polish and sophistication to every outfit,” she said. I understand where she’s coming from; I’ve been wearing my own version left and right, coordinating it with denim, dresses, heels, and beyond.
Trench coats are making a bold entrance because of what Galante Frank calls “elevated utility,” which encompasses everything from cargo pants to lug-sole shoes. In other words, everyone’s adding a “touch of ‘tough’” to their wardrobes. Plus, trench coats make for an easy on-and-off top layer that tackles spring’s fluctuating weather.
Linen-Blend Trousers
Bloomingdale’s
I’m an avid linen trouser gal, so when Galante Frank called the pants she “loves” one of her go-to spring styles, I was overjoyed. Not only do stars like Meghan Markle and Jennifer Lawrence call on the bottoms, but they’re ideal for the breezy season, offering a weightless and flowy feel. Best of all, they’re refined and elevated, easily dressing up blouses, tees, and sandals.
Consider a DKNY cloud-white version for a crisp addition that brightens up any ensemble, while this Aqua striped find nods to Parisian style. Meanwhile, the Splendid cropped drawstring pants are great for both lounging at home and wearing out—who doesn’t love a two-for-one?
Raffia Totes
Bloomingdale’s
The one item everyone needs in their spring closet? An elevated raffia tote similar to Reese Witherspoon’s Clare V. crossbody, Hailey Bieber’s woven bag, and Kylie Jenner’s straw purse—all boasting earthy material and bohemian style. Galante Frank prefers an option with leather trim, like this snap-closure Madewell option or flared Coach find; though, slouchy straw tote bags are just as good.
Such finds fit into the popular nautical vibes that are “permeating fashion,” said Galante Frank. So, confidently coordinate your new bag with boat shoes, stripes, lightweight knits, and beach-ready separates.