Without looking like an Easter egg.
It’s time to shed our winter layers and whip out pastel colors and lightweight fabrics. After a winter filled with snowstorms and weather emergencies, it feels good to get outside and wear some clothing that matches the weather (even if that means wearing fun rain gear for those April showers).
Pastels can be challenging to style, as they are muted versions of so many of the colors we typically wear — there’s something about a powdery shade that seems more difficult to pair with our go-to black jeans or favorite sneakers. And if you go too far, you might end up looking like an Easter egg. Thankfully, with a few tips and tricks, you’ll find incorporating pastel spring hues into your wardrobe is easier than you think.
By swapping out your monochrome office attire or workout staples, you can easily inject color into any outfit. Whether you’re most looking forward to investing in a new going out dress or upgrading your return-to-office looks, these pieces are sure to feel and look refreshing.
Dudley Stephens Greenpoint Turtleneck
A turtleneck is one of Katie’s top wardrobe essentials, as it’s easy to style and always chic. This one from Dudley Stephens is one of her all-time favorites. It’s made of incredibly soft fleece, which will keep you warm on chilly spring evenings or brisk morning walks. There are more than 25 colors to pick from in this shirt style, but we’re partial to the pastel lavender hue.
Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant
There is no such thing as too many leggings, right? Lululemon wearers are huge fans of the brand’s align legging because they’re buttery soft and super high-waisted, creating a comfortable and flattering fit. The leggings are stretchy enough for yoga and pilates workouts, but cute enough to wear for a day full of errands or exploring a new city.
Jenni Kayne Leather Bucket Bag
Another favorite brand of Katie’s is Jenni Kayne. They’re full of reliable basics and accessories that can easily simplify your wardrobe. This bucket bag is made from a beautiful pink-toned leather, and small gold accents add a luxe touch. Inside, there’s plenty of room for your phone, wallet, and water bottle, making it a go-to bag for everyday use.
Everlane Tiered Midi Dress
Finally, midi dresses are in again. We don’t know about you, but not having to worry about bending over in a dress is a much-welcomed relief for us. This gingham-patterned midi from Everlane is made from breathable cotton, so it can easily translate from spring to summer. The buttons on the front of the dress are functional, so you can choose to have them all the way up or show a little skin.
Madewell Linen-Blend Tie-Back Ruffle Jumpsuit
A one-and-done outfit not only simplifies getting dressed in the morning, but it’s extremely comfortable. Katie loves linen jumpsuits for their versatility and laid-back look. Molner lovingly calls them her onesies — and he’s not wrong. A jumpsuit is just a chic, grown-up onsie, no?
This one from Madewell has adorable ruffle detailing at the bodice and shoulders that continues to the tie-back. Even though the back is partially open, the tie will easily cover a bra, so you won’t have to worry about going au naturel if you need the support.
On Running Cloud 5 Sneakers
You probably know by now that On Running is one of Molner’s favorite shoe brands, but they also make stylish options for women. A blue-green color screams “spring,” and this pair even has speed locking laces to make them easy to slide into or out of. No knotting required.
Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
Hauling around a heavy purse is not a joyful task. Keep yourself organized and traveling light by switching to a belt bag (aka a fanny pack). To rock it the way Gen Z does, wear it across your chest rather than around your hips. It’ll be lighter than your regular bag and it’ll keep you hands free all day. The catch? It will only fit the necessities: a phone, wallet, and maybe some hand sanitizer.
Allbirds Tree Pipers
A peppy coral color may not seem like a pastel, but go a couple of shades lighter and it definitely reads like one. If you’re a fan of Allbirds, they also make casual sneakers for everyday wear along with their athletic-style sneaks. This breathable pair is a beautiful color for spring, and they’re comfy enough to wear for a full day of exploring local botanical gardens or stopping to smell the flowers in the park.
Vince Camuto Shyremin Sandal
This (literally) elevated spring sandal adds a subtle hint of green to any outfit. Despite having a higher heel, the chunky size of it makes it easier to walk on, and a cushioned footbed means you won’t be begging to sit down after each step. Small gold studs adorn the straps of this shoe, giving it just a bit more personality.
Anthropologie Handkerchief Button-Down
If you’re returning to the office anytime soon, you’re probably going to need to wear something other than sweats to work. This collared shirt is made from incredibly soft cotton, and the eyelet and embroidered details add both texture and pattern. Slip this on under a blazer and you’ll be looking great both in-person and on Zoom calls.
Girlfriend Collective Daydream Rib Paloma Bra
Even if you’ll only see a peek of it, this pastel sports bra is stunning. It’s made from compressive ribbed material to keep you and the ladies supported without feeling suffocated, and this powdery blue color looks good on everyone. The scoop neck shows some skin, but not an uncomfortable amount, and a longer silhouette keeps any underboob from showing.
