What Katie’s Wearing This Season 

A classic button-up is endlessly versatile. Layer it over a tee or tank, tuck it into tailored trousers, throw it on with jeans, or wear it as a swimsuit cover-up come summer. I gravitate toward slightly oversized styles with a menswear edge, but with so many colors, cuts, and patterns out there, it’s easy to find one that suits your personal style.

As someone on the petite side, I appreciate a good heel, but it doesn’t have to be sky-high to make an impact. This strappy pair from J.Crew adds just the right amount of lift and looks especially stylish peeking out from wide-leg trousers. I’ll be styling them with everything from floaty dresses to relaxed denim all season long.

Though often pegged as a winter fabric, merino wool is surprisingly breathable, which is ideal for transitional weather. This cardigan is beautifully preppy when worn buttoned-up as a top (my personal favorite), but it’s just as classic layered open over a shirt. I styled it at SXSW with cream trousers and those red kitten heels I mentioned earlier.

Speaking of my cream trousers, here they are in all their glory. With a relaxed drawstring waist, they deliver all-day comfort, while the roomy cut and drapey fabric keep the look effortlessly polished.

You can never go wrong with an simple chic slip dress — and this chocolate brown number from Jenni Kayne is my current go-to. For a monochrome moment, layer it with a brown cardigan. Or let it shine on its own with strappy sandals for a minimalist look inspired by the ’90s.

For a more budget-friendly take, this is the alternative — and it comes in 16 different colors and patterns. It hits at a midi length — great if you prefer something a bit shorter than my Jenni Kayne maxi. We even tracked down a coordinating sweater that pulls the look together with ease.

The search for the perfect shorts is a delicate balancing act: too short, and you compromise on comfort and coverage; too long, and the look can feel dowdy. This tailored pair from Argent strikes just the right note. Made from wool, they offer class without sacrificing practicality. I recently wore them with the matching blazer and a classic white tee for my portrait session at my alma mater, UVA. Wahoowa!

For a more relaxed take, these 100 percent linen shorts are a solid pick. The longer inseam helps prevent chafing, while the structured silhouette ensures they still look refined.

A neutral sweater is a year-round staple, and I especially love reaching for one on crisp spring days when the weather hasn’t quite warmed up yet. This Mango version is under $50 and provides easy versatility. I’m partial to a V-neck over a crew, but any knit is worth keeping in your rotation.

On days when I need to look put-together but it’s too warm to wear sleeves, I reach for an elegant silk blouse. The drape on this one is universally flattering, and it’s machine-washable, saving me a trip to the dry cleaners. It can be tucked into jeans or a pencil skirt and is opaque enough that your bra won’t show through.

No outfit is complete without an accessory or two. Lately, I’ve been swapping out my daily gold hoops for a set of pearl-adorned drop earrings. They’re understated enough for everyday wear, but their double shimmer adds an unexpected touch.

I affectionately call these my “John Lennon” sunnies, and I’ve been wearing them for years. Molner and I are die-hard Ray-Ban devotees because the craftsmanship is unmatched, and the classic frame designs never go out of style.

I can’t get enough of this bag. It looks way more expensive than it actually is! Thoughtfully designed compartments keep my essentials perfectly organized, and the adjustable strap lets me switch effortlessly between crossbody and handbag modes. It’s also surprisingly large enough to fit my iPad.

No shocker here — I own these pants in several colors. This spring, I’m gravitating toward a lighter denim wash, though my sunny yellow pair will no doubt make an appearance before the season’s end. While that bold hue is no longer available, this denim version is every bit as versatile.