Spring and Summer Fashions for Women

Seasonal Styles

As soon as the wool coats and snow boots are put away, the flirty dresses, kitten heels, lightweight cardigans and pretty pastels come out in droves. The beauty of springtime is as evident in women's fashions as it is in the natural wonders of the world! The same can be said for summer, when spring's fashions carry over for a while before being replaced by clothes even more appropriate for soaring temperatures. Short shorts, micro mini skirts, tank tops and flip-flops are all summertime favorites.

Spring Basics

Though the weather definitely warms up when spring rolls around, a slight winter chill usually lingers for a month or so. The ideal spring wardrobe should accommodate these fluctuating temperatures and keep you warm as needed. The basic essentials are those pieces that can be mixed and matched to provide you with countless outfit variations. Your color palette should reflect this versatility, with a range that includes practical hues for everyday wear and prints or brilliant shades for a little pop. These are the basic essentials that will make spring a smashing success!

• Dress Suit: This is a year-round essential, but lighter fabrics and colors make it fresh for spring. Opt for a three-piece suit with a jacket, pants and skirt in a neutral color, like black or grey. Add another suit to your repertoire if you want some variety, and don't shy away from printed neutrals, like pinstripes.
• Button Down Shirt: You can't go wrong with this inimitable classic. Its importance is obvious: It pairs well with anything and is a smart, crisp, no-nonsense choice that completes your work outfits and offers a polished alternative to a t-shirt. Any solid works, but stick with versatile colors to get the most use out of it.
• Twin Set: The ubiquitous twin set is a spring fashion staple. Since it works so well with everything from black trousers to denim skirts, feel free to select a splashier color, like blue or green. You'll undoubtedly pull it out year after year and wear it to pieces (all the more reason to buy a few!).
• Blouse: Nothing says feminine like a lovely blouse. Avoid excessive details like frills, fancy buttons and bows; instead, try chiffon or silk materials and diminutive floral prints. These are versatile, comfortable and look right with nearly anything.
• Trench Coat: A bright trench coat is an absolute must. Throw it on over your understated work ensemble to liven things up. Don't shy away from bolder colors, like bright pink and turquoise. You're layering it over your basics, so it helps to break things up with a fun, spirited hue.
• Canvas Jacket: It's not quite cold enough for an actual coat and you don't wish to be lumbered by a trench coat's weight. Try a cotton canvas jacket instead, in a neutral shade. Think safari-inspired, and be prepared to use it often!
• Jeans: Dark wash denim is always stylish, but during the spring it acts as an alternative to a neutral pair of pants. A crisp cut in a trouser style is sharp and might even pass muster on Casual Friday at the office (check to make sure it's ok first, of course).
• Skirt: You'll wear the heck out of skirts for months. Choose at least one neutral that takes you from day to play without a hitch. A flirty, printed skirt is perfect for spring, too – it can be worn with everything from your twin set to your canvas jacket and a simple white t-shirt.
• Accessories: Play up your practical wardrobe with polished accessories. Opt for a mix of classics and trendy pieces to shake things up a bit. For every neutral bag, there should be at least one vibrant color or print to balance it. Play with light shawls, animal print heels and flats in ebullient shades.

Summer Basics

As the mercury rises and your daydreams of a beach vacation kick into high gear, your spring wardrobe takes a bit of a backseat. You'll still use some of those pieces, but gone are the heavy fabrics and cozy knits. Be prepared to bare some skin!

• T-shirts: They may not be the epitome of high fashion, but t-shirts are fairly important parts of a versatile wardrobe. They pair well with everything from shorts to skirts, are perfect to throw on over a swimsuit and are an alternative to tank tops. As for colors, go crazy – you can wear anything light and bright.
• Tank Tops: Of course, tank tops are versatile enough to layer year round, but during the summer they practically make an outfit. Invest in a decent mix of prints and solids; they're usually available for next to nothing and will last you years.
• Tunics: Dressier than a tee or a tank, the tunic has emerged as a style essential in recent years. Worn with white shorts and sandals, it creates the epitome of a fabulous summer outfit, and looks just as appropriate with jeans and boots. Stick with minimal embellishments for daywear and one detailed version for fancier occasions.
• Shorts: Stick with clean-lined shorts made of cotton. Light, neutral tones are always appropriate and will fit right in with bolder tops. Long Bermuda styles are appropriate for those who want to show off less leg.
• Capris: For those who really don't like wearing shorts, invest in a pair or two of capri pants. A dark pair is appropriate for balancing out your lighter tops. You'll also be able to wear them in the spring.
• Linen Pants: You may have ditched the trousers, but there's nothing like a pair of linen pants to add a touch of polish and class to your summer wardrobe. Linen pants are loose, lightweight and ultra-comfy – perfect to wear on the boat, boardwalk or to the mall.
• Sundress: Sleeveless, brightly colored and available in a multitude of prints, the sundress is a no-fail essential. Throw it on and add a few accessories for the perfect summer outfit.
• Sandals: The ubiquitous summer shoe may be the flip-flop, but a chic pair of sandals is a must in any stylish woman's wardrobe. Stick with two pairs – one flat, strappy metallic in gold or bronze will be a universal fit for almost anything, and a low heel will suit dressier occasions and look great with a dress.

Where to Shop

A great selection of spring and summer essentials can be found at Old Navy, Banana Republic, JCPenney, Ann Taylor and similar stores. Select the colors and cuts that best flatter your figure and prepare for a gorgeous season of style!