Spring Outfits From My Favorite Retailers

There’s lots of talk about classic style on Style at a Certain Age. But what is classic style? Does it refer specifically to fashion or can we include other genres like classic literature or classic music? Since you landed on this blog post I imagine you’re interested in classic fashion. But what makes something classic, including style? Why use that specific phrase?

Here’s the definition of classic according to Meriam Webster dictionary: 

Serving as a standard of excellence: of recognized value. Traditional, enduring characterized by simple tailored lines in fashion year after year.

To put it in a nutshell quality is the essence of classic style.

No wonder there’s lots of talk about classic style when quality is involved. Who doesn’t love quality garments? But the first question that springs to mind is the price tag. Do I have to shop for luxury brands like Chanel to embody classic style? Is it reserved for members of an exclusive club? 

Thank goodness there’s no price point when it comes to the classics. For the classic woman, value is equally important as quality so we look for wardrobe staples that we can count on year after year because they last for years but it isn’t brand specific.

Classic style is also timeless, chic, and effortless. At least, it’s made to look effortless. Truthfully any outfit takes some thought to put together. But if you have the wardrobe basics on hand your life will become easier. But what else makes up classic style?

Clean silhouettes, tailored cuts, neat hems, neutral colors, simple stripes, and minimal detailing. Paired down jewelry. Simplicity. Smart, structured fabric. And maybe a splash of red lipstick from time to time. 

Today, I’ve rounded up five retailers where you can shop classic style to your heart’s content. Talbots, J.Crew, J.McLaughlin, Ralph Lauren, and Banana Republic. Spring is a great time to check these retailers as our closets undergo a major spring cleaning as we transition from one season to the next. It’s time to pack up my bulky wool sweaters and retire my boots until fall.

The weather has recently flirted with spring-like temps so I’m more than happy to slip into a pair of slingbacks and throw on a cotton sweater. Although, the weather can be tricky this time of year. One minute it’s chilly and the next summerlike. Light layers are your best friend and are key for transitioning from winter to spring. Lightweight sweaters, cardigans, and a spring jacket or raincoat are all great places to start. 

And just because it’s time to transition our wardrobe from one season to another doesn’t mean you need to buy entirely new clothing. Let’s shop our own closet first and bring those lightweight fabrics and spring colors out from the back of your closet to front and center. Now you can see what basics are missing in your wardrobe and start filling the holes with items that make getting dressed easier when spring is in full bloom.