For some, spring cleaning means shaking out rugs, dusting sideboards and wiping ceiling fan blades. For others, it means chucking the contents of one’s closet onto the bed and sifting through each piece, those “keep,” “sell,” “donate” piles steadily rising. I’m definitely in the latter group though there’s another important component to that closet cleansing ritual that may seem counter-intuitive: I’m also figuring out what to put on my to-buy list for the new season! Adding new pieces to your wardrobe is just as an essential step in the closet clean-out process as getting rid of them. Personal style is constantly evolving so while you may be ready to let go of that neon pink tank top, it’s only to make room for a pastel yellow button up blouse, right?
I went window shopping in Carytown this past weekend, mentally taking notes on the new trends and the storefront windows I was feeling to prepare for the annual closet clean out tradition. I took a few snaps of my favorites to share with you and hopefully inspire your own warm weather wardrobe must-have list.
Pantone included Buttercup yellow on their list as one of the most popular colors for Spring 2016 and they weren’t wrong (not that I ever doubted them!). This super springy dress from Lex’s of Carytown is following the feminine, romantic trend that was all over the runway last season and is just begging to be worn at one of the bridal showers you’re sure to be headed to in the next few months.
Going strapless means you can rock a major statement necklace without weighing down your top half. Have fun with bold accessories! (Photo by Megan Parry)
Ashby also had a sunshine-y pop of yellow in their window but I’m seriously digging that blue ensemble to the left. Crop tops don’t have to look totally 90s and totally young if they’re paired with the right bottom. Here, it’s a straight floral high-waisted skirt. These silky printed knee-length skirts have been showing up everywhere and are an effortless, stylish alternative to a basic pair of shorts.
I’m always up for a vintage straw bag as a nod to the eternally chic Jane Birkin. (Photo by Megan Parry)
Their sister store Clementine went with another of spring’s top trends for their window dressing: stripes. Of course, stripes are a constant classic; they’ve never really gone out of style. Even still, they’re “in” something fierce this season and I dig how Clementine styled their own version with a pair of snakeskin ankle boots. It helps keeps the summery dress firmly planted in spring. Throw on a denim jacket and you’re good to go— straight to the farmer’s market, of course.
Adding a hat will keep your face protected and immediately elevate the most casual outfit to look completely intentional. (Photo by Megan Parry)
Traveling Chic Boutique took their stripes directly uptown with a sophisticated shift dress in their window. Just add a pair of patent nude heels and cropped blazer and you’ve ready for a boardroom presentation. Add scrappy gold heels and a leather jacket instead and voila— a smart and sexy date night look.
A color-blocked gray and white look is clean, minimal and springy in a non-obvious way. (Photo by Megan Parry)
I’m in love with Eurotrash’s fun painted floral window art— so festive! I’m also in love with that graphic coat/statement necklace combination front row and center. They’ve paired it with a simple black dress but an emerald green frock would be a perfect swap for a fancy wedding or art gallery opening!
Don’t be afraid of brightly colored pants! Just keep the rest of your outfit monochromatic so you don’t overwhelm your frame. (Photo by Megan Parry)
