Welcome to the first entry in my Simple Style series!

I do a lot of “window browsing” online, and sometimes I like to come up with inspirational mood boards. I figured why not put together some of my favorite “wishlist” outfits to share?

My style is, of course, minimalist and neutral with pops of color.

I’m no fashionista by any stretch, but I hope this will inspire outfits that stick to the basics. I think it’s important to invest in key pieces and saving some money on others.

For example, in this combination I’d splurge on the watch and handbag, because they can definitely go with many other outfits.

1. TOPSHOP Tall Lace Insert Tie Blouse 
2. Ruche Color My World Indie Aquamarine Ring
3. J.CrewToothpick Mint-Green Skinny Jeans
4. Kate Spade New York Composition Notebook iPhone Case 
5. Fossil Gold Multifunction Watch
6. Essie – Devil’s Advocate 
7. Old Navy Womens Infinity T Strap Sandals 
8. Fossil Maddox Top Zip in Dusty Rose 

What do you think of my Simple Style series? Is this something you would wear?

I’m not a fan of trends that will fade out after the season. (I don’t like throwing money, or clothes, away!) So I often reuse the same summer staples including shorts, shoes, and accessories year after year. I put my money into good tops that can make an outfit, and that don’t absolutely have to stay for next year.

Above is a perfect example of what I try to pull out of my closet in the summer!

Here is my take on summer wardrobe essentials that transcend trends:

• Nails: I’m a fan of neutral nails, but I also find an excuse to go for brighter pinks in the summer. I’m a sucker for pastel pinks, like this Essie nail polish in BFF Best Boyfriend.
• Tops: Usually the same tops I grabbed for spring, I grab for summer. Especially short/non-sleeve shirts that are made of light material. This Dorothy Perkins Bird Print Blouse is the perfect example of how you can reuse summer staples, but invest in a cute statement top or two. Love it!
• Bottoms: Finally, I can wear shorts again! Investing in a good pair of denim shorts is a must for the summer. I prefer mid-length shorts, which will flatter most body types, like these American Eagle Denim Midi Shorts. (Which are actually on sale!)
• Shoes: Most of my shoes are neutral (no surprise there), and I like to wear white or brown for summer. This Aldo Tossie Sandal in Tan is the perfect example of a summer staple!
• Accessories: My Michael Kors watch is immediately what I grab for when I want something eye catching. This is a similar Michael Kors Watch in Rose Gold that goes with the outfit and dresses it up.
• Bag: I reuse the same bag until it collapses. (My Twitter followers know what I’m talking about!) For summer I love comfortable, tan cross bodies. I’m a huge fan of Fossil bags, like this Fossil Maddox Organizer Flap. (On sale!)

I’ve recently transitioned to a more neutral wardrobe consisting of browns, grays, creams, whites, etc. It worked very well for the winter, but now that spring is fast approaching I find that I need to add a few more essentials to my wardrobe. I was also left with a conundrum. Brighter colors are always in for spring, how would I incorporate that into a neutral wardrobe?

I found my answer: pastels! Pastels happen to be in this season as well, but even if they weren’t I don’t think I’d have trouble finding any. Wearing all neutrals with one item in a pastel shade looks incredible and is perfect for the spring season.

I’m excited to put away my winter clothes and start looking for gems to add to my spring collection. Remember to weed out your closet periodically by donating clothes you no longer fit in or don’t wear anymore.

How are you getting your wardrobe ready for spring?

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