sunday style | 10 key pieces for spring

white jean: white denim is a perfect choice 12 months out of the year. but they are even more perfect come spring and summer. so don’t forget to add a pair (or 2) to your wardrobe. pair them with a denim jacket to help ease into spring. love the simplicity of a simple cotton shirt and white jeans for a chic summer look. and denim and blazers always strike the perfect balance.

white denim here, here, and here

easy dress: dresses are far more versatile than you think. and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. a tee shirt dress is a favorite wardrobe staple come summer. but there are lots of choices from a sheath to a shirt dress. all i know is that nothing beats a dress on a hot summer day!

dresses here, here, here, and here

pattern blouse: want instant pizazz? then add a patterned shirt to your wardrobe. stripes, floral or animal print; i’m certain there’s a pattern that’s perfect for you.

shirts here, here, and here

trench coat: if there’s only room for 1 spring coat in your closet make sure it’s a trench. this coat is an iconic classic that will stand the test of time. khaki is the perennial favorite, but don’t forget there’s room to diversify.

trench coat here, here, here, and here

lightweight cardigan: a cardigan is a perfect layer any time of the year. yes, that means summer too. those movie theaters are downright frigid even in july! my favorite cardi of all-time is a featherweight cashmere from j.crew that come in a variety of colors. i try to add at least one sweater every season.

cardigans here, here, and here

shorts: many women discount shorts because they think they can’t show their legs. but no one has perfect legs – not even models. this is when we work with what we have and use instant tanner if they are blinding white. just keep an open mind and look for the perfect length for you. a good rule of thumb is that the shorts should stop where your legs look the slimmest. stand in the mirror and play with the length until you find the right length for you. there’s nothing like shorts to help beat that summer heat.

shorts here, here, and here

denim skirt: some summer days are just too hot for blue jeans. this is when i slip into a denim skirt. don’t forget to add white denim to your repertoire as it’s perfect all summer long.

denim skirt here, here, and here

sunglasses: to be certain sunnies have that cool factor going for them. but did you know you will protect the whites of your eyes from UV light if you slip a pair on before you head outside?

sunglasses here, here, and here

fancy tees: fancy or plain a tee is a must once warmer weather prevails. but graphic tees are back on trend so grab one or two. they’re perfect tucked under a blazer, cardigan, or shirt. they’re available everywhere and at bargain prices.

tees here, here, here, and here

flats: flip flops and sandals are easy to slip on during the summer months. but don’t forget loafers or ballet flats look great with skirts or shorts.

flats here, here, here, and here

Beth Djalali

is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.

She’s 65, 5’8, and size 8.

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